Online international business programs may provide students with knowledge in particular subject areas as they are relevant to international business, including political, legal, social, and economic conditions in other cultures. Those interested in these types of programs should be self-starters, have strong communication skills, be organized, and have an interest in other cultures. International business degrees are available in an online format at the associate, baccalaureate, and master’s and doctoral levels, while some schools offer a graduate certificate option.

Graduates of international business degree programs may seek employment in a variety of business sectors, including for-profit and non-profit, governmental agencies, and private companies. Types of jobs available may include international banking, entrepreneur, international trade specialist, cultural advisor, or import compliance specialist.

Available Degree Levels

• Certificate: One to two years to complete
• Associate Degree: Two years to complete
• Bachelor’s Degree: Four years to complete
• Master’s Degree: One to two years to complete
• Doctoral Degree: Three to five years to complete

Most online certificate programs in international business are available in a graduate-level format. Those who complete a certificate program may seek employment in international trade, marketing, and project management. Students obtain various business skills and learn how to negotiate with those in different communities and cultures.

An online international business associate-level program may provide students the skills and knowledge to obtain entry-level employment or further their education with a bachelor’s degree program. These programs are ideal for those who want to know more about how businesses operate in different cultures and have an interest in exploring other parts of the world. Typical courses may include economics, financial accounting, business ethics, business foundations, and critical thinking.

Individuals enrolled in online baccalaureate programs in international business learn how to combine aspects of business with different cultures. They study interpersonal communications, marketing and advertising principles, international business law, and may learn how to overcome potential barriers while working in a foreign market. Along with general education requirements, students may complete coursework in strategic and financial management, international finance, business law, and marketing.

Online international business master’s-level programs are ideal for individuals who wish to expand their knowledge in the global marketplace. They do this by taking classes such as international finance, law, ethics, and technology management.

Online doctoral programs in international business are designed to prepare individuals to work in academia or research, educating others on aspects of global business. These research-heavy programs are intended to train students on the theoretical and operational concepts of international business. Additionally, some programs may allow students to specialize in a particular area, such as accounting, finance, information systems, management, or marketing.

Career Options

Those who obtain an international business degree may possess the skills needed to do business in other countries, including analyzing accounting practices, dealing with business law, and partaking in marketing ventures. Graduates of an international business program may pursue employment in a variety of industries, including non-profit and for-profit businesses, governmental agencies, and private businesses. Many of these jobs are found in sales and marketing sectors.

Possible career fields include:

• International Trade Specialist
• Import Compliance Specialist
• Cultural Advisor
• Entrepreneur
• International Banking Advisor