An Overview of Coursework for an International MBA

Those who wish to pursue an International MBA degree are those who are going to travel the world throughout their business ventures. The programs tend to be extensive, with a large number of credit hours involved. An analysis of the coursework for an International MBA from several universities yielded the following similar requirements.

Business undergraduate degree

Many programs like applicants to have an undergraduate business degree, as a foundation to business principles. Many also take a look at GMAT scores, though some will waive this requirement.

Previous business experience

As a prerequisite to most of the programs, applicants should demonstrate significant experience in the business field. Some programs may be willing to waive some of the years of experience, provided the applicant has a business undergraduate degree.

Foreign language proficiency

Though much business around the world is conducted in English, professionals will be spending time in several foreign countries. An understanding of the country's language can only serve to strengthen the business partnership. Many programs prefer applicants have at least three years of a given foreign language, such as French, Spanish, German, Arabic, Japanese, or Chinese. Some are willing to accept less, or none at all, but strongly encourage foreign language study. Still others would like students to complete a short Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), Teaching a Foreign Language (TFL), or translation and interpretation degrees.

International study

The International MBA, of course, requires that students take classes at participating international schools. Some may be core MBA coursework and some may pertain more to international business. Further credits are obtained through work at the home university or college.

MBA core coursework

International MBA programs will require classes that are similar to the MBA core coursework. Classes are provided in finance, economics, management, leadership, accounting, and statistics. Learn how to do market research while managing the supply chain and studying market trends. Study organizational theory. There is also usually a snapshot of the global economy and information technology. The International MBA degree requires a more in-depth look at how all of these aspects of business affect the global economy. Look for courses in international economics, finance, and marketing and how to facilitate business communications in a foreign language. Many of these international courses are put to work in an international setting during the study abroad portion.

Different programs are going to have different requirements coursework for an International MBA degree. Some will have significantly higher required course hours. Lessons across different programs tend to follow similar themes, even if they are worded or titled differently. When choosing a program, be sure to carefully study all available options, to find the best fit for you.

Resources:

Canisius College: Bordering on the World Master in International Business. Canisius College. Retrieved 8-18-10 from http://www.canisius.edu/mib/

Fisher International MBA Degrees. Monterey Institute of International Studies. Retrieved 8-18-10 from http://www.miis.edu/admissions/requirements/business

International MBA. University of Memphis. Retrieved 8-18-10 from http://www.memphis.edu/internationalmba/Curriculum.php

One-Year International MBA Curriculum. Boston College. Retrieved 8-18-10 from http://management.bu.edu/gpo/fulltime/impmba/curriculum/index.html