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MBA in global business

Are you a world traveler who loves making connections with business professionals? An MBA in global business can help you create international opportunities and partnerships for a career that transcends borders.

Discover global MBA programs, and sign up for your online master's degree today on edX.

See all global business MBA programs

Why earn an MBA in global business?

Career paths

Pursue roles in finance, business, or accounting at local or international corporations.

Global viewpoint

Learn how to think internationally for negotiations, business trends, and partnerships.

Networking

Network with classmates, professors, and corporations through courses, office hours, and networking events.

See all MBA programs with a global business focus

Prestigious
An immersive cohort-based learning experience that is designed to optimize learning outcomes and ensure global networking opportunities.
Flexible
Choose your path with a range of completion options and class times.
Equivalent to on-campus
Earn the same degree and complete the same curriculum as on-campus students.

Global business degree overview

In a global master's in business administration (MBA) program, you can explore business concepts through various international lenses. These programs explore the increasing prevalence of globalization, international supply chains, and multinational business requirements. In this program, students will cover:

  • Global business strategy
  • Finance and economics policy
  • Government and law
  • Entrepreneurship and leadership
  • Emerging economies

Earning an MBA in global business may benefit you if you want to work abroad, expand an existing business overseas, or pursue a role in an international company.

Is there a difference between global business and international business?

Is there a difference between global business and international business?

The difference between global and international business is that global businesses have operations around the world, whereas international businesses buy, sell, or trade globally but operate within one country.

These terms may also differentiate the types of international MBA programs:

  • Global MBA programs can help you become a leader in culturally diverse workplaces, emphasizing diplomacy and communication.
  • International MBA programs can prepare you to conduct business in international markets, focusing on policy, governance, and regulations.

However, many schools view the terms as synonymous and offer either global or international MBA programs. Students can then choose to focus on the diplomatic or regulatory side of global business as they progress in the degree program.

What jobs can you get with an MBA in global business?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that business careers will grow much faster than the average for all occupations, making an MBA in global business appealing for some people.

After graduating from an MBA in global business program, you can pursue diverse careers in multiple sectors. Your salary depends on your job type, location, and experience level. Below are a few roles that earning an MBA in global business can prepare you to pursue:

Project manager

Project managers work with clients and technical staff to plan, organize, and create new ideas or revise existing projects. These managers may need to delegate tasks, forecast costs, and meet project deadlines.

  • Median annual salary (May 2024): $100,750
  • Projected growth rate (2023-33): +7%

Budget analyst

Budget analysts develop and monitor budgets for companies and individual projects. These professionals can forecast costs, alert management to underperforming assets, and offer alternative investment ideas.

  • Median annual salary (May 2024): $87,930
  • Projected growth rate (2023-33): +4%

Management analyst

Management analysts review organizational issues and offer customized solutions. These professionals study problems through corporate data, employee interviews, and customer surveys. Management analysts may also recommend internal changes to improve customer satisfaction, maximize profits, or reduce employee turnover.

  • Median annual salary (May 2024): $101,190
  • Projected growth rate (2023-33): +11%

Accountant

Accountants create and analyze financial statements to monitor a company's health and comply with tax laws. These professionals can identify financial risks, calculate estimated taxes, and identify cost-saving opportunities.

  • Median annual salary (May 2024): $81,680
  • Projected growth rate (2023-33): +6%

Admission requirements for a master's in global business online program

have various admission requirements. Below are commonly required materials:

  • Online application
  • A from an accredited school
  • Standardized test scores, including GMAT or GRE
  • Official transcripts
  • Résumé
  • Essays, including an
  • Letters of recommendation

How to apply

You can start by identifying potential schools and programs. Once you identify your ideal programs, you can begin to fill out online applications. These forms may ask for personal information, documentation, and essays. You can save key files and data from your first application to speed up subsequent applications.

You can also fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which can be completed within an hour. Eligible students may also qualify for loans, grants, or scholarships.

Frequently asked questions

Is an MBA in global business worth it?

Yes. According to the Graduate Management Assessment Council (GMAC), the projected median annual salary for MBA graduates was $120,000 in 2024. This is more than double the BLS-reported 2024 median annual wage for all occupations ($49,500).

How long does it take to complete a global MBA degree?

Most people can finish a global MBA program within 1-3 years. However, your MBA timeline may vary depending on whether you enroll on a part- or full-time basis and complete internships or study abroad opportunities.

What are the benefits of a global MBA degree?

A global MBA can offer the skills you need to operate a business in international markets or with global partners. You may also earn a global MBA degree to:

  • Understand economic and trade policies and regulations.
  • Communicate across cultures.
  • Lead in a multicultural workplace.
  • Discover international work opportunities.
  • Network with globally minded peers.

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Last updated August 6, 2025