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Online MBA in international business

An MBA in international business can prepare you for management careers within multinational organizations. Uncover what these programs cover and where they can lead.

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Why earn an online MBA in international business degree online?

Advance your career

Develop in-demand business management skills to improve decision-making and lead teams and organizations.

Globalize your perspective

Learn how to manage global organizations through international trade and foreign markets.

Expand your reach

Pursue career opportunities that include management positions in domestic and international organizations.


International businesses require different approaches and strategies than domestic organizations. With an online master's of business administration (MBA) in international business, you can acquire the specialized skills necessary to lead an organization to cross-border success.

Discover what MBA in international business programs can teach you and what types of careers they might prepare you for.

See all MBA programs with an international 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.

What can you do with an MBA in international business degree?

An MBA in international business can qualify you to work in various capacities for multinational organizations. As more companies expand operations into global markets and trade partnerships, the demand for professionals with international business expertise will grow.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects about 1.2 million annual management openings and faster-than-average growth — when compared to all occupations — between 2023 and 2033.

Here are some potential career paths to pursue, with salary data from the BLS:

Management analyst

Management analysts advise organizations on how to improve operations and profits. They review systems and processes, highlight inefficiencies, and make recommendations. They may even develop new systems and strategies for organizations.

  • Median annual salary (2023): $99,410
  • Job outlook (2023-33): 11%
Marketing manager

Marketing managers create and oversee marketing campaigns for an organization's products and services. They analyze the market to determine the demand and develop the appropriate strategy and pricing model.

  • Median annual salary (2023): $157,620
  • Job outlook (2023-33): 8%
Human resources manager

Human resources managers oversee an organization's administrative functions, including staffing, payroll and benefits, and training and development. They act as the communication link between management and employees and may influence company culture and policies.

  • Median annual salary (2023): $136,350
  • Job outlook (2023-33): 6%

What should you expect from an online MBA in international business program?

MBA in international business programs explore the global dynamics of business, including foreign market trends, cross-cultural communications, and trade and tax laws. You can develop many of the same advanced business skills as in a general MBA program, but the international MBA program focuses more on global applications.

An online MBA in international business program typically features the same structure as a general MBA program, including 30 to 60 credits and about two years of study. While international business is a specialization on its own, you may informally specialize further by focusing your electives in one area.

Courses for online MBA in international business program

An online MBA in international business program features traditional MBA coursework in business management fundamentals, as well as specialized courses in applications. The programs may also include elective courses and a project-based capstone.

Here are some courses that you may encounter in an MBA in international business program:

  • International marketing: Explore the processes and approaches to planning, developing, and implementing marketing campaigns in a global environment. You may learn research and branding strategies unique to global markets.
  • International corporate finance: Learn how multinational corporations navigate financial complexities, such as foreign exchange risks, trade policies, and international investments.
  • Global enterprise management: Discover strategies for managing global enterprises, such as working with international supply chains, audiences, and global finance.
  • International business policy: Examine strategies for implementing international business policies that support organizational systems, operations, and goals.
  • Business globalization: Explore the various factors that influence international businesses. You may learn how to evaluate opportunities and risks and how to develop global business strategies.

Admissions for online MBA in international business programs

The admissions processes may vary between MBA in international business programs, but some common requirements include:

  • Bachelor's degree
  • Résumé
  • Professional experience
  • Postsecondary transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement
  • Application fee
  • GMAT scores (if applicable)
  • A minimum GPA (if applicable)

Frequently asked questions

Does it matter where you get your MBA in international business degree?

Your school and program can significantly impact your education. Your decision could impact what you learn, who you learn from, and how employers view your education.

Is an MBA in international business degree worth it?

An MBA in international business degree can help you advance your career and pursue positions with multinational organizations. The specialized international business skills can potentially give you a competitive advantage over other professionals with a traditional graduate degree or a general MBA degree.

What is the difference between an MBA and an MBA in international business?

An MBA in international business program differs from a general MBA program by focusing on multinational business issues and strategies. The specialized programs feature many of the same core courses as general MBA programs, but they substitute some broad management topics with specialized coursework.

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