Rapidly advancing technologies offer businesses the chance to enjoy an international presence. In line with the increasing opportunities for businesses to conduct their affairs on a global scale, there is a growing demand for expertly qualified individuals who understand the intricacies of international business practices.
It is unlikely that a bachelors degree on its own will suffice to launch an executive level career in international trade. Although there are certain elements of business studied at an undergraduate level that will put a student in good stead for a future career in the field of international trade, the majority of recruiters will require applicants to be educated at a graduate level. A Masters in International Business offers a focused route to becoming the type of applicant that business leaders want to hire.
MBA/MIB courses in this area will typically include study of the core subjects involved in any masters program. Each college and university is different, but core subjects generally include such topics as financial reporting and analysis, the legalities of operating a business, and managerial economics. Following completion of requisite courses, students will move on to specialize in the various aspects of corporate management at an international level. These may include such subjects as international trade laws, global logistics, and foreign market investments. It is also likely that students will be expected to achieve competency in one or more foreign languages. Internships at companies based overseas may be offered.
Where to Study a Masters in International Business
Many business schools offer electives in the field of international business and trade. Still others stand out from the crowd as a result of their global focus and reputation in the field.
1.Wharton School of Business, University of Pennslyvania
The Wharton School of Business, ranked number four in the Forbes list of the Best U.S. Business Schools offers students the chance to lead across the globe. During the course, which is over two years, students engage with complex international issues and learn the language of global business. Rich opportunities to study and volunteer abroad are an inherent part of the course. International exchange programs include partnerships with business schools such as the Australian Graduate School of Management, the London Business School, and Keio University’s Graduate School of Business. Those students wishing to achieve a full interdisciplinary degree in international affairs may apply to a joint MBA/MA-Lauder program delivered in conjunction with Penns Lauder, John Hopkins, or Harvard.
2. Fuqua School of Business, Duke University (Durham)
The Fuqua School of Business is global in its very nature. With seven locations across the world including schools in London, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates, students enjoy a truly international campus. The Cross Continent program will be of most interest to those students who wish to pursue a career in international business. This MBA course, delivered over 16 months, involves study in five different global locations – the U.S., Dubai, New Delhi, Shanghai, and St Petersburg. Access to such diverse markets and peers results in students gaining real-world experience and a clear understanding of the strategic drivers of world markets, leaving them fully equipped to lead a global enterprise.
3. Chapman Graduate School of Business, Florida International University
The Masters in International Business (MIB) delivered at the Chapman Graduate School of Business offers a specialized program that focuses on the management techniques and essential skills that are required to conduct business in a global marketplace. The learning experience includes in-depth analysis and perspectives on global business practices in the world marketplace. The Dual Degree Program offers students the chance to gain a deeper exposure to the mechanics of international business by offering the opportunity of an 8-9 month overseas placement at a participating international business school.
*Linda Forshaw is a Business Information Systems graduate from Lancaster University in the UK. A frequent contributor toDegreeJungle.com, she is also full time writer and blogger specializing in education, social media, and entrepreneurship. Contact her on Twitter @seelindaplayjdiaz@becker-poliakoff.com.
Customs and International Trade Law blog accepts guest posts. If interested, contact Jennifer Diaz at
Leave A Comment