Study international business abroad

International business is the study of how business and trade operates across global borders. You’ll draw upon topics like economics, marketing and international relations to learn about how global markets work.

By completing a program in international business, you’ll develop a detailed understanding of how business is conducted in different countries and cultures. You’ll also examine how markets and business management practices have been impacted by the increased connectedness of the world.

Studying abroad is a unique opportunity to observe international business in motion. Seeing first-hand how business concepts and practices differ between countries and cultures will equip you with the knowledge, skills and adaptability required to succeed in the field.

International business is a global subject which is taught all over the world. The exact structure and content of your course will, therefore, depend on the country and institution.

A BSc in international business is usually taught over three to four years and will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the field. It’s also possible to study an MA in international business over one or two years, and even a PhD which can take anywhere between four and seven years to complete.

If you choose to study in the US, you’ll follow the liberal arts model of education. This means that you’ll complete two years of general education before beginning your specialist international business education in your final two years of study.

Many universities will encourage you to study international business alongside a foreign language. This will help you to effectively communicate with business professionals who do not speak your native language.

Most international business programs are taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials and independent study. On some programs, you’ll be required to complete an internship with a business operating in the international marketplace so that you can gain real, hands-on experience.

International business programs will be assessed differently depending on the institution, but you’ll probably be expected to complete a mixture of exams, coursework and presentations. Here’s a list of core international business modules that are common across most programs:

• The global business environment
• Globalization
• Quantitative methods for business
• Principles of marketing
• Business law
• Global business issues
• Global strategic management

As an international business graduate, you’ll have the tools to kickstart your career anywhere in the world. Since most successful businesses now need to operate across borders, employers are always on the lookout for international business graduates who have the attributes needed to excel in a globalized world. You’ll be well placed to achieve success in any of the following roles:

• Business analyst
• Business development manager
• Business advisor
• Sales executive
• Corporate investment banker
• Management consultant
• Marketing manager
• Purchasing manager
• Financial trader

Most universities will host business networking events with employers. These are a great opportunity to make connections and secure work-experience placements so that you can stand out when it comes to applying for graduate roles.