Online MBA Programs in International Business

The global nature of business today demands that upper-level managers and executives understand worldwide markets to negotiate business deals across cultures. Online MBA in international business programs incorporate this global awareness into foundational business administration courses.

As an advanced business degree, an MBA can lead to lucrative careers. According to Payscale, MBA in international business graduates make an average of around $100,000 per year, as of November 2022.

What Is an MBA in International Business?

Online international business master's programs typically suit working professionals with relevant business experience. This advanced degree builds students' skills in business analytics, decision-making, managerial economics, and communications.

Coursework covers specialized topics like trade law, international markets, and distribution logistics. Most programs support applied learning through capstone projects and internships at approved sites.

Graduates of online MBA in international business programs often use this degree to qualify for upper-level management roles, like international sales manager, global marketing manager, and international trade compliance manager.

What Can You Do With an MBA in International Business?

Global Marketing Manager

Skilled in design, leadership, and communications, global marketing managers collaborate with design departments and supervise marketing staff in creating marketing campaigns. These managers often spend their days budgeting, collaborating, and designing campaigns.

Global marketing managers may assist global marketing directors in strategizing, forging marketing partnerships, and reporting marketing plans and results to executives. Payscale figures indicate that these professionals earn an average annual salary of $97,350 as of November 2022.

International Sales Manager

Tasked with managing global sales operations, international sales managers negotiate contracts, address customer issues, and make supply and delivery arrangements. These professionals, skilled in analysis, collaboration, and project management, also research market trends, create sales strategies, and oversee sales staff. International sales managers make about $86,000 annually, according to Payscale salary data from November 2022.

International Trade Compliance Manager

These professionals manage trade projects and staff, ensuring that company trade practices align with international trade laws and regulations. This work entails knowledge and careful study of trade agreements, regulations, and laws. Management skills in areas such as leadership and decision-making help international trade compliance managers lead initiatives, direct teams, and guide marketing efforts. International trade compliance managers earn an average of $90,430 annually, according to Payscale data from November 2022.

International Logistics Coordinator

These coordinators oversee supply chains and logistics, identifying effective and affordable shipping methods, coordinating shipments, and tracking products. They also prepare the necessary documentation for customs and perform various customer service-related tasks.

International logistics coordinators need strong research and planning abilities and policy knowledge. Payscale reports that, as of November 2022, international logistics coordinators make an average annual salary of $50,960.

Business Development Coordinator

These coordinators identify and pursue business development opportunities, such as new sales leads. They need analysis, customer service, and communications skills. Business development coordinators often create cost estimates, proposals, and sales presentations. This career may involve traveling to meet clients or attend conferences. Payscale data from November 2022 indicates that business development coordinators earn an average of $51,380 annually.

Salary Potential With an MBA in International Business

An online MBA in international business can increase salary potential. For example, graduates with bachelor of science degrees in international business earn $75,000 annually, while international business MBA graduates earn an average annual salary of $100,000, according to Payscale data from November 2022.

Salaries for coordinator positions, such as international logistics coordinator and business development coordinator, amount to an average of around $50,000 per year. However, international business MBA graduates may qualify for higher-paying positions, such as international trade compliance manager, international sales manager, and global marketing manager, with annual salaries averaging $86,000-$97,000.

International MBA career salaries vary by experience. For example, international sales managers with 20 years of experience typically make around twice as much as entry-level international sales managers. Salaries also vary with location, company, and industry.

Source: Payscale

Professional Organizations for International Business

The professional organizations described below serve international business students and professionals through continuing education programs, networking opportunities, and professional development tools and services. Many organizations also host conferences, publish current research, and establish professional standards.

• Academy of International Business: This nonprofit network of international business scholars and other leaders provides events, such as an annual meeting, for networking opportunities. AIB also hosts several publications, including the Journal of International Business Studies, the Journal of International Business Policy, and AIB Insights. AIB's website features a career center, discussion platform, and online educational resources.
• Business Council for International Understanding: Since 1955, BCIU has brought together political and business leaders through diplomat training, trade mission tours, and roundtable discussions. BCIU also offers an internship program for student members.
• Forum for International Trade Training: FITT, an international nonprofit professional organization founded in Canada, hosts online courses, workshops, and professional certifications geared toward international trade.
• International Business Brokers Association: Serving international business professionals, IBBA provides online courses, webinars, conferences, and summits. Members also receive access to product discounts and a network of business sellers and buyers.
• NASBITE International: This nonprofit provides international business education, hosts an annual conference, produces trade tools and a newsletter, and certifies global business professionals.

Common Questions About International Business Programs

Can I study international business without taking math?

International business requires a solid grasp of data analytics and economics, so some math is involved in the degree. International business MBA students also generally take accounting and finance classes as part of the core MBA curriculum.

What are the challenges of international business?

International business requires professionals to understand and navigate complex compliance guidelines, cultural differences, and rapidly changing economic climates. Individuals pursuing MBAs in international business learn to better handle these challenges.

What do you learn as an international business major?

International business majors explore topics such as international trade compliance, global economics, and international logistics, along with selling and marketing to international customers.

Why is it important for business students to learn about international business?

Business students need to learn about international business as the economy becomes increasingly globalized. Most areas of business, including supply chain management, marketing, and leadership, now review any understanding of global economics.