Best MBA in Global/International Business

An MBA in Global/International Business is designed for professionals who navigate international markets, manage cross-border trade, and lead multinational corporations. This specialization focuses on global market strategy, international finance, cultural intelligence, and global supply chain management, equipping graduates with the expertise to manage international trade, foreign investments, and multinational business operations.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in global business management roles is expected to grow as companies expand into international markets. The median salary for global business executives is $120,000, with top international business consultants and corporate executives earning significantly higher ( BLS). A report by McKinsey & Company highlights that global trade is expected to increase by over 25% in the next decade, emphasizing the demand for professionals who understand international business dynamics ( McKinsey).

An MBA in Global/International Business specialization is ideal for professionals seeking to lead international ventures, manage cross-border operations, and drive business growth in global markets.

What is an Online MBA in Global/International Business?

An Online MBA in Global/International Business provides a flexible pathway for professionals looking to develop expertise in international trade, global leadership, and cross-cultural business strategy while continuing their careers. These programs focus on multinational corporate strategy, regulatory compliance, and emerging market expansion, helping students prepare for leadership roles in international business consulting, global supply chain management, and foreign market development.

Students gain expertise in foreign market entry strategies, international finance, and trade regulations, ensuring they are equipped to navigate the complexities of international business transactions and global partnerships. Many online programs include real-world case studies, global business simulations, and international market analysis projects, providing an immersive learning experience.

What Are the Admissions Requirements for an MBA in Global/International Business?

Admissions requirements for an MBA in Global/International Business vary by program, but typically include:

  • Bachelor’s Degree – From an accredited institution, often in business, international relations, economics, or a related field.
  • Work Experience – 2-5 years of professional experience in business, international trade, or global supply chain management is preferred.
  • GMAT/GRE Scores – Some programs require standardized test scores, while others offer waivers.
  • Personal Statement – Discussing career goals and why the applicant is pursuing an MBA in Global/International Business.
  • Letters of Recommendation – Typically from employers, business leaders, or academic mentors.
  • Resume – Highlighting experience in global markets, trade negotiations, or multinational business operations.

Is an MBA in Global/International Business the Right Specialization for You?

An MBA in Global/International Business specialization is best suited for professionals who are strategic thinkers, globally minded, and interested in international commerce. If you are passionate about expanding business across borders, managing international investments, and leading multinational teams, this specialization will provide the necessary skills for career advancement.

Compared to other MBA specializations, such as Finance or Supply Chain Management, an MBA in Global/International Business focuses on cross-cultural leadership, international trade laws, and global economic trends. If you want to manage multinational companies, oversee foreign investments, or develop global expansion strategies, this program may be the best fit for you.

2026 Best MBA in Global/International Business Programs

Are you looking for the best MBA in Global or International Business programs? You have come to the right place. At mbaschools.org, we specialize in ranking these top programs to help you find the perfect fit for your career goals. Our rankings consider factors like curriculum, faculty expertise, and global opportunities to give you a clear picture. We want to make your search easier by highlighting schools that excel in preparing leaders for the international stage. For a detailed look at how we create our rankings, check out our methodology page at https://www.mbaschools.org/methodology/. Start exploring today to take the next step in your global business education.
#1

California State University-Sacramento

Sacramento, CA - Public 4-Year - csus.edu

Master's - Master of Business Administration (International)

Concentration: Finance - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

California State University-Sacramento's International MBA program offers a Finance concentration, blending online and face-to-face learning in a 36-unit curriculum. Students develop expertise in global financial management through eight core courses and four specialized emphasis courses, preparing for leadership in international commerce. The program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and GMAT/GRE scores for admission, with a focus on practical skills through four IMBA boot camps. This hybrid format provides flexibility for professionals seeking advanced financial knowledge in a global business context.

  • 36 total units required
  • Online and face-to-face options
  • Three emphasis areas available
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • GMAT/GRE scores needed
  • International business focus
  • 8 core courses
  • 4 emphasis courses
  • Requires 4 IMBA boot camps
  • Global leadership emphasis

Master's - Master of Business Administration (International)

Concentration: International Management - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Focusing on International Management, Sacramento State's International MBA program equips professionals with strategic leadership skills for global markets. The 36-unit hybrid curriculum includes eight core business courses and specialized management training, emphasizing career-oriented development in international commerce. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA and GMAT/GRE scores, with the program offering both online and in-person learning options. Students gain comprehensive management expertise through four boot camp prerequisite courses, preparing them for competitive roles in international business environments.

  • 36 total units required
  • Online and face-to-face options
  • Three emphasis areas available
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • GMAT/GRE scores needed
  • Eight core courses offered
  • Four boot camp prerequisite courses
  • International business focus
  • Career-oriented curriculum
  • Flexible graduate program

Master's - Master of Business Administration (International)

Concentration: Information Technology - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

California State University-Sacramento's International MBA with Information Technology concentration integrates business leadership with technological innovation for global commerce. The 36-unit program combines eight core courses with specialized IT emphasis courses, delivered through hybrid online and face-to-face formats. Students develop advanced skills in managing technology-driven international business operations, requiring a minimum 3.0 GPA and GMAT/GRE scores for admission. This program prepares graduates to navigate complex global business landscapes with strong technological and managerial competencies.

  • 36 total units required
  • Online and face-to-face options
  • Three emphasis areas available
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • GMAT/GRE required for admission
  • International focus on global commerce
  • Eight core business courses
  • Four specialized concentration courses
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#2

University of South Carolina

Columbia, SC - Public 4-Year - sc.edu

Master's - International MBA

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of South Carolina's 22-month International MBA at the Darla Moore School of Business, ranked #1 nationally, offers immersive global experiences without requiring entrance exams. Students engage in two-month international immersions and 10-15 week multinational internships, developing consulting skills through real-world projects. The program includes STEM OPT-extension opportunities and starts annually in July, preparing graduates to navigate complex international business environments effectively.

  • 22-month International MBA program
  • Global and Language track options
  • Two-month international immersion
  • 10-15 week multinational internship
  • STEM OPT-extension opportunity
  • English and language immersion options
  • Real-world consulting projects
  • Annual July program start
  • Multinational company partnerships

Master's - International MBA

Concentration: Language Track - Campus Based - Visit Website

Focusing on the Language Track, this 22-month International MBA at the University of South Carolina provides deep cultural insights through language immersion and international experiences, with no entrance exams required. Students participate in two-month immersions and 10-15 week internships with companies like Adidas and Dell, gaining a multinational perspective. The program, ranked #1 in international business, includes STEM designation and begins each July, fostering globally competent professionals.

  • 22-month International MBA program
  • Two immersion tracks: Global/Language
  • 10-15 week multinational internship
  • Two international immersion options
  • STEM designation available
  • Begins annually in July

Master's - International MBA

Concentration: Global Track - Campus Based - Visit Website

The Global Track of the University of South Carolina's 22-month International MBA emphasizes hands-on experience in international markets without entrance exams. Ranked #1 nationally, it features two-month international placements and 10-15 week internships, blending rigorous coursework with real-world consulting. Language options in French, German, or Spanish enhance cultural fluency, and the STEM-designated program starts annually in July, equipping graduates to lead in complex global business landscapes.

  • 22-month International MBA program
  • Global and Language track options
  • Two-month international immersion
  • 10-15 week multinational internship
  • Optional STEM designation available
  • Language study options: French, German, Spanish
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#3

Georgia Institute of Technology

Atlanta, GA - Public 4-Year - gatech.edu

Master's - MBA - Global Business

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Georgia Institute of Technology's Global Executive MBA is a 17-month hybrid program designed for experienced executives with 10-15 years of professional experience. This intensive program requires a minimum 2.7 GPA and 5 years of work experience, featuring 50 semester credit hours delivered through weekend classes. The curriculum emphasizes global business strategy and international business topics, enhanced by two international residencies and four total residency sessions. Students complete a global strategy capstone project while gaining hands-on experience in emerging markets. The program focuses on preparing leaders for complex international business environments and requires entrance exams for admission.

  • 50 semester credit hours
  • 17-month program duration
  • Weekend class format
  • Two international trips
  • Minimum 5 years experience required
  • Minimum 2.7 GPA needed
  • Focus on global business strategy
  • Four total residency sessions
  • Global strategy capstone project
  • Covers international business topics

Master's - Executive MBA

Concentration: Global Business (Leadership) - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Georgia Institute of Technology's Executive MBA with Global Business Leadership specialization offers a 17-month hybrid program combining bimonthly weekend classes with international business residencies. This program focuses specifically on global business leadership, covering international finance, global supply chain management, and workforce management. Students engage in corporate capstone projects with leading corporations, multinational company visits, and strategic global project work. The curriculum emphasizes emerging markets exploration and provides networking opportunities with global executives. Designed for career-driven professionals, this program requires entrance exams for admission and prepares graduates for leadership roles in international business environments.

  • 17-month Executive MBA program
  • Global Business Leadership specialization
  • Bimonthly weekend classes
  • International business residencies
  • Corporate capstone project experience
  • Courses in global supply chain
  • International finance focus
  • Workforce management training
  • Multinational company visits
  • Emerging markets exploration
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#4

Lindenwood University

Saint Charles, MO - Private 4-year - lindenwood.edu

Master's - Master of Business Administration

Concentration: International Business - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Lindenwood University's MBA with International Business Emphasis is a hybrid program that prepares professionals for global business challenges. Located in St. Charles/St. Louis, MO, it offers on-campus, online, and blended formats, requiring four specialized courses focused on international trade. Students gain expertise in cross-border operations, multinational management, and global economic dynamics, making it ideal for those seeking to advance in international roles. This master's-level program typically requires an entrance exam like the GMAT or GRE, and it is military-friendly, enhancing accessibility for diverse learners.

  • MBA with International Business Emphasis
  • Located in St. Charles/St. Louis, MO
  • On-campus, Online, Blended formats
  • Requires four specialized courses
  • Advanced international trade training
#5

University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Greensboro, NC - Public 4-Year - uncg.edu

Master's - Business Administration, M.B.A.

Concentration: International Business - Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro's online MBA with International Business concentration delivers AACSB-accredited education through flexible online and in-person formats. This program builds interdisciplinary expertise for navigating global business complexities, emphasizing strategic decision-making, cross-cultural management, and sustainable practices. Students choose from 30+ electives and study abroad opportunities to specialize in international operations. Designed for career advancement in global organizations, the program prepares graduates for executive roles and requires the GMAT entrance exam.

  • AACSB dual accreditation
  • 30+ elective course options
  • Flexible online/in-person classes
  • International business concentration
  • Study abroad opportunities
  • Interdisciplinary curriculum
  • Global strategy focus
  • Cross-cultural management training
  • Career-oriented learning approach
  • Prepare for executive positions
#6

Hofstra University

Hempstead, NY - Private 4-year - hofstra.edu

Master's - MBA in International Business

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Hofstra University's MBA in International Business is a STEM-designated hybrid program that equips professionals with advanced strategic skills for global markets. It emphasizes practical insights and theoretical knowledge to prepare graduates for leadership in multinational corporations. International students benefit from extended Optional Practical Training, offering up to three years of work experience without extra visa sponsorship. This program does not require an entrance exam, focusing on career readiness in dynamic international business environments.

  • STEM-designated MBA program
  • Extended OPT for international students
  • Global business strategy focus
  • Multinational career preparation
  • 24-month OPT extension available
#7

Florida International University

Miami, FL - Public 4-Year - fiu.edu

Master's - International MBA

Campus Based - Visit Website

Florida International University's International MBA is a one-year full-time campus program based in Miami, a global business hub. It emphasizes immersive international training with study abroad and multinational company internship opportunities. Ranked No. 7 nationally by U.S. News & World Report, the program features a diverse international student and faculty cohort. Tuition is $21,139 for Florida residents and $47,000 for non-residents. This master's level program requires an entrance exam, such as the GMAT or GRE, for admission.

  • One-year full-time program
  • Diverse international cohort
  • Miami campus location
  • Study abroad options
  • Internship opportunities
  • Weekday daytime schedule
  • Florida residents $21,139 tuition
  • Non-resident $47,000 tuition
  • Multinational business focus
#8

University of Delaware

Newark, DE - Public 4-Year - udel.edu

Master's - MBA

Concentration: International Business - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Delaware's MBA in International Business equips students with advanced expertise in global market dynamics and cross-cultural strategies. This program emphasizes practical skills through 9-credit concentration coursework, offering both on-campus and online formats for flexibility. Students benefit from study abroad opportunities and a curriculum designed for international and U.S. professionals, fostering inclusive learning. Part-time options accommodate working individuals, enhancing accessibility. An entrance exam is required for admission, typically the GMAT or GRE.

  • Concentration requires 9 credits
  • On-campus and online formats
  • Study abroad opportunities
  • Global business environment focus
  • Multiple concentration courses
  • Flexible course selection
  • Part-time student friendly
  • International student inclusive
#9

Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College

Baton Rouge, LA - Public 4-Year - lsu.edu

Master's - MBA

Concentration: International Business - Online Learning - Visit Website

Louisiana State University's online MBA with International Business Concentration prepares professionals for global markets through a 30-credit curriculum focused on multinational operations, cross-border marketing, and international management. This AACSB-accredited program offers flexible online delivery, allowing completion in as few as 10 months at an affordable total tuition of $14,370. The program provides GMAT/GRE waiver options and multiple admission pathways based on GPA and professional experience, making it accessible to working adults seeking to advance their careers in international business.

  • 30 total credit hours
  • Costs $479 per credit hour
  • Total program tuition $14,370
  • Complete in 10 months
  • GMAT/GRE waiver available
  • AACSB International accredited
  • Online flexible format
  • Application deadline Feb 24, 2025
  • Classes start March 17, 2025
  • Multiple admission pathways
#10

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Edinburg, TX - Public 4-Year - utrgv.edu

Master's - Master of Business Administration

Concentration: International Trade - Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley offers an online MBA with an International Trade concentration, preparing professionals for global business leadership through a 12-month program. Students develop expertise in cross-cultural business practices, international commerce law, and multicultural management, with courses delivered in 7-week modules. The program requires 36 credit hours at $472.22 per credit, totaling approximately $17,000, and features no application fee and a $50 graduation fee. As a master's level program, it does not require entrance exams like the GMAT or GRE. Ranked #3 for affordability in online international business MBAs, it starts March 5, 2025, with a February 26, 2025 application deadline, and is taught by industry-experienced faculty.

  • Online MBA with International Trade specialization
  • 12-month program length
  • 36 total credit hours
  • 7-week course modules
  • Cost per credit: $472.22
  • Total program cost: $17,000
  • 3.0 minimum GPA requirement
  • No application fee
  • $50 graduation fee
  • Next start date: March 5, 2025
*Data source: NCES Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, 2023.

MBA in Global/International Business Curriculum: What Classes Will I Take?

Most MBA in Global/International Business programs take 1-2 years to complete, depending on whether students enroll full-time, part-time, or in an accelerated format.

Core Courses in an MBA in Global/International Business

The curriculum for a Global/International Business MBA specialization blends business leadership with global market expertise through courses such as:

  • International Business Strategy & Market Entry
  • Global Finance & Foreign Investment Management
  • Cross-Cultural Management & International Leadership
  • Global Supply Chain & Logistics Management
  • Trade Regulations & International Business Law
  • Emerging Markets & Economic Development
  • Digital Transformation in Global Markets
  • International Marketing & Brand Expansion

Many programs also incorporate global business consulting projects, including real-world case studies in foreign market expansion, international trade negotiations, and multinational business strategy. Some students complete internships with global corporations, international banks, or trade organizations to gain hands-on experience before graduation.

What Career Options Do I Have with an MBA in Global/International Business?

A Global/International Business MBA specialization prepares graduates for leadership roles in multinational corporations, international trade, and foreign investment management. Common job titles include:

  • International Business Consultant – Advises companies on global expansion, trade regulations, and international business development.
  • Global Supply Chain Manager – Manages logistics, procurement, and distribution across international markets.
  • Multinational Corporate Executive – Oversees global operations and manages cross-border business activities.
  • International Trade Specialist – Analyzes and negotiates trade agreements, tariffs, and market entry strategies.
  • Foreign Market Development Manager – Identifies and develops business opportunities in emerging economies.

Salary Expectations

Salaries for MBA in Global/International Business graduates vary based on industry, experience, and expertise. According to BLS and McKinsey, international business professionals with an MBA typically earn:

  • International Business Consultant – $110,000 – $180,000
  • Global Supply Chain Manager – $100,000 – $170,000
  • Multinational Corporate Executive – $120,000 – $250,000+
  • International Trade Specialist – $95,000 – $160,000
  • Foreign Market Development Manager – $110,000 – $190,000

Take the Next Step Toward a Leadership Role in Global Business

An MBA in Global/International Business provides the expertise needed to lead multinational corporations, manage global trade, and expand business operations into international markets. Whether you want to advise on global business strategy, oversee international supply chains, or manage corporate expansions, this degree will give you the knowledge, skills, and network to achieve your career goals.

Explore top-ranked MBA in Global/International Business programs today and start advancing your career.

Sources

  • U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Global Business & International Trade Careers. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/
  • McKinsey & Company. (2023). Global Market Expansion & International Business Trends Report. Retrieved from https://www.mckinsey.com/