International Business Degree and Careers Guide
Get the school and international business degree information you need to watch your career take off.
International business is the term most frequently used when discussing the actions and interactions of companies who either have interests in multiple places around the world or who work with other companies based or operating globally. These businesses are generally called multinational corporations or international business corporations. As the world becomes more technology-oriented, and communication, business, and cooperation over great distances gets easier, more formerly local businesses are expanding into the global market.
In any international business career, you need to be prepared to work in international finance, marketing, management, importing/exporting and sales. While much of this requires on the job experience, you can ensure that you have a solid foundation by pursuing an international business degree.
Undergraduates can earn a bachelor's degree in international business, but most upper-level international management positions require an MBA or master's degree. The Master of International Management (MIM) includes language and culture classes in addition to business course work and generally tries to present a cross-cultural perspective. MBA students can specialize in international business and management.
International Business Careers
International business careers are expanding rapidly as an increasing number of companies conduct global business. International business is influenced by numerous sociocultural, political and legal factors; overall employment is expected to rise as organizations like the European Union expand and recruit new partners.
Your specific field may be in accounting, finance, marketing, management, purchasing or production, but whatever your specific focus, you will engage with global and cultural business issues. Common job titles include Import/Export Agent, Translator, Foreign Currency Investment Advisor, Foreign Sales Representative and International Management Consultant. Frequent employers include banks, import/export corporations, multinational manufacturers, consulting firms, international nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), electronics companies and transportation industries like shipping and airlines.
Salaries in international business depend upon the size and location of the company, as well as your own related experience, your international business degree level and cultural skills. Entry-level earnings with a bachelor's degree can range from $32,000 to $50,000, and these numbers will increase significantly—into six figures—if you have earned an MBA or master's degree.
Source: PayScale.com, 2010
International Business Careers and Degrees Home
International Business Degrees
- Associate Degree
- Bachelor's Degree
- MBA / Master's Degree
- PhD in International Business
- Online International Business Degrees
International Business Careers
- Is an International Business Career Right for You?
- International Business Career Options
- International Business Etiquette
- Graduate Student Interview
- International Business Salaries
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