United States Graduate International Business Programs & Schools

goods, and capital across borders easier.

Globalization also includes innovations in communication and technology – all part of an effort to weave together the economies of different countries. The result is a more globalized business world.

International business professionals may need to know the following things about different countries:

• Legal Systems
• Political Systems
• Economic Policies
• Cultures
• Language
• Accounting Standards
• Labor Standards
• Imports & Export Regulations 
• Living Standards

International business graduate programs may cover many of these topics, which may help them develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in this increasingly globalized world.

Application Information

Students typically need a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university. Other required material may include letters of recommendations, GRE scores, a personal statement, and prerequisite courses.

Some graduate programs in international business may require real work experience and the ability to speak a second language. Be sure to check with your preferred program about the requirements needed.

Types of International Business Graduate Programs

Graduate programs in international business offer master’s degrees, certificates, and doctorate degrees. Master’s and doctorate degree programs can help professionals develop in-depth knowledge of the field and enhance their international business and academic careers.

On the other hand, certificates may be perfect for professionals who simply want to gain some knowledge or skills in international business.

Program Formats

International business graduate programs often appeal to business professionals. Thus, many programs offer evening and weekend programming and online, hybrid, or on-campus options.

Within the programs, students may be able to study abroad, participate in language programs, and take part in membership programs.

Students may also find programs that combine a Master of Business Administration with a Master of International Business or a Doctorate of Business Administration with a Doctorate of International Business.

Below is a brief overview of your options.

A Master’s Program in International Business

Students may pursue one of four types of master’s degrees in international business:

1. Master of Science in international business (M.S.)
2. Master of Art in international business (M.A.)
3. Master of International Business (M.I.B)
4. Master of Master of Business Administration in international business (M.B.A.)

An M.S., M.A., or M.I.B. in international business usually includes coursework that emphasizes theories, key concepts, practices, and applications of international business.

Courses in business in a particular region of the world or a particular industry may also be part of the program. Adding elective courses to your program may provide a more in-depth area of study in international business.

An M.B.A. is different from the aforementioned degrees as its curriculum generally focuses on general business practices in an international context. If you like, you can pursue an M.B.A. and a master’s degree in international business simultaneously.

An M.B.A., M.I.B., M.S., or M.A. in international business can take over one to two years of full-time, intensive, or part-time study. After you complete the program, you may have to write a thesis, take a comprehensive exam, or complete another type of capstone project.

Work with a mentor or an internship may also be required. Every school and program differs, so be sure to check with your preferred programs for specific requirements and course details.

A Doctorate Degree in International Business

For students pursuing a doctorate degree in international business, you may choose between two doctorate degree campus programs:

• Doctor of Philosophy in international business (Ph.D.)
• Doctor of Business Administration in international business (D.B.A.)

Many Ph.D. international business programs offer core and elective coursework in key concepts, principles, and theories. Students may also gain extensive and in-depth knowledge of international business as well as in specific areas of international business. If you choose to further specialize your education, you will need to complete a dissertation, which is an intensive research project. At the end of your Ph.D. program, you may have to defend your dissertation before a faculty panel.

D.B.A. programs in international business usually offer core and elective coursework in areas of general business. You may add international business to your coursework through a minor or with electives. Some D.B.A. programs, however, require intensive research as well as students with work experience in business. Check with your preferred campus international business program for specific requirements or qualifications.

A Ph.D. or D.B.A. in international business may take four to six years of full-time or intensive study to complete. At the end of the program, you may have to complete a capstone project (such as a dissertation) or take a comprehensive exam.

You may also be required to do an internship, do student teaching, work with a mentor, or work as a research assistant. Check with your preferred programs to learn more about their individual requirements.

The Graduate Certificate in International Business

To further develop knowledge in international business, many professionals and students pursue a graduate certificate in international business. Through core and elective classes, you may study general international business or focus on a particular area.

Some certificate programs may give students a great degree of flexibility to pick their courses while others have more specific requirements.

In most certificate programs, students are typically required to take four to 10 courses over the course of three months to one year.

Students in international business graduate certificate programs may take classes with graduate students in master’s or doctorate programs, and they might take a blend of on-campus and online courses. Be sure to check with your preferred graduate certificate program on courses that you can take on campus.

What Students May Study in International Business Graduate Programs

In international business graduate programs, students may focus on a component of international business in greater depth. However, there are certain key principles and theories that are common to a graduate degree in international business.

Key areas of study include:

• International Business
• International Trade Policies and Practices
• International Marketing
• International Management
• International Banking and Finance
• Global Supply Chain Management and Logistics
• International Business Simulation
• International Strategic Management
• Computer Applications in Business
• Multimedia and Business Presentations
• Economic Analysis for Global Business
• Ethical and Social Issues in Global Management and Interfaith Leadership
• Global Business Strategy
• Global Corporate Governance and Social Responsibility
• Doing Business in World Regions: The Regional Business Environment

Program Coursework for Graduate Certificates

Graduate certificate programs in international business address:

• Business Strategy
• International Trade and Policy
• International Marketing

Other courses may include finance, accounting, or management; international economics; as well as international business as it relates to a particular region of the world.

What’s Out There? Career Choices in International Business

Now that you’ve completed your degree, you’re ready to begin your job search. With the right qualifications, students may find myriad opportunities with an international business degree, especially at the graduate level or higher, where more opportunities exist. For example, with a master’s degree in international business, you may find opportunities in:

• Business Development
• Finance
• Foreign Policy
• Marketing
• Hospitality
• Trade and Customs

To be sure, a M.I.B. is most often required if you decide to pursue a management position.

Students with Certifications

For students seeking opportunities with a graduate certificate, keep in mind that employers may prefer to hire candidates with an international business degree as their specialty. But you can also focus your specialty, as many certificate programs are available for such specialties as business administration, finance, marketing, accounting, and more.

Graduate certificates may be a way to help you jumpstart your international business career.

International Business Salaries

For those with a graduate degree or more in international business, you may find employment opportunities in a number of different positions.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than half of all employers are looking to hire a professional with a graduate degree or more.

Below are a few examples of median annual salaries:

• Management Analyst - $82,450ⁱ
• Marketing Manager - $132,230ⁱⁱ
• Chief Executive - $183,270ⁱⁱⁱ
• Human Resources Manager - $110,120^iv
• Financial Analyst - $84,300^v
• Economist - $102,490^vi

Find International Business Graduate Programs

Choosing a graduate program in international business is easier than you might expect. Sure, there are many options from which to choose, but you can narrow down your choices and find what you want.

Use the aforementioned information to help refine your search. Then pick a degree program, format, and location using the supplied links. See a program you like? Click the link for more International Business Programs information and find a perfect program for you!

Sources: [i] bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/management-analysts.htm#tab-5 | [ii] bls.gov/ooh/management/advertising-promotions-and-marketing-managers.htm#tab-5 | [iii] bls.gov/ooh/management/top-executives.htm#tab-5 | [iv] bls.gov/ooh/management/human-resources-managers.htm#tab-5  |  [v] bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/financial-analysts.htm#tab-5 | [vi] bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/economists.htm#tab-5