For the open-minded and curious student aiming to globalize their career, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in international business is the gateway to achieving that goal. These programs are designed to prepare graduates for diverse careers, from accounting and auditing to underwriting and analysis. These fields are not only anticipated to witness substantial growth over the next decade, but they also offer a median salary of $76,850, illustrating the high demand and value of these roles in the global market.
Typically, obtaining an MBA in international business takes 18 months to two years, with an average tuition cost of $19,749. This investment opens up a world of opportunities, providing students with the skills and knowledge to thrive in this field.
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How we rank schools
Our list features the best MBA in International Business degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best 34 Accredited MBA in International Business Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
University of South Carolina
Intelligent Score: 97.63In-state: $12,288
Out-of-state: $33,528
In-state: $13,737
Out-of-state: $13,737
SAT: 1140-1340
ACT: 25-31
Resident: $864
Non-Resident: $1,632
On-Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
74
FIU College of Business
Intelligent Score: 97.44In-state: $4,721
Out-of-state: $16,529
In-state: $8,912
Out-of-state: $8,912
SAT: 1110-1260
ACT: 23-29
Resident: $503
Non-Resident: $1,119
On-Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
42
University of California, Berkeley
Intelligent Score: 96.47In-state: $11,442
Out-of-state: $41,196
In-state: $11,442
Out-of-state: $11,442
SAT: 1310-1530
ACT: 30-35
$3,708
On-Campus, Hybrid
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
42-51
Rutgers University - Newark
Intelligent Score: 96.13In-state: $12,230
Out-of-state: $29,012
In-state: $17,736
Out-of-state: $17,736
SAT: 1180-1410
ACT: 25-32
In-State: $1,248
Out-of-State: $2,167
On-Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
60
Temple University
Intelligent Score: 95.81In-state: $16,080
Out-of-state: $28,992
In-state: $16,956
Out-of-state: $16,956
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$1,250
On-Campus, Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
48
NYU Stern School of Business
Intelligent Score: 95.44In-state: $52,204
Out-of-state: $52,204
In-state: $34,704
Out-of-state: $34,704
SAT: 1370-1540
ACT: 31-34
$2,754
On-Campus, Hybrid
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
60
GW School of Business
Intelligent Score: 93.72In-state: $55,961
Out-of-state: $55,961
In-state: $31,770
Out-of-state: $31,770
SAT: 1270-1450
ACT: 30-33
$2,153
On-Campus, Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
53
DePaul University
Intelligent Score: 92.83In-state: $40,551
Out-of-state: $40,551
In-state: $19,370
Out-of-state: $19,370
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$1,146
On-Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
52-60
USC Marshall
Intelligent Score: 92.39In-state: $12,288
Out-of-state: $33,528
In-state: $13,737
Out-of-state: $13,737
SAT: 1140-1340
ACT: 25-31
$2,283
On-Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
56
Northeastern University
Intelligent Score: 92.15In-state: $54,360
Out-of-state: $54,360
In-state: $25,264
Out-of-state: $25,264
SAT: 1410-1540
ACT: 33-35
$1,755
On-Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
55
University at Buffalo
Intelligent Score: 91.3In-state: $7,070
Out-of-state: $24,740
In-state: $11,310
Out-of-state: $11,310
SAT: 1140-1310
ACT: 23-29
In-State: $500
Out-of-State: $874
On-Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
60
University of Texas at Dallas
Intelligent Score: 90.31In-state: $11,448
Out-of-state: $40,032
In-state: $12,028
Out-of-state: $12,028
SAT: 1210-1470
ACT: 26-33
Resident: $577 - $914
Non-Resident: $1,134 - $1,622
On-Campus, Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
53
University of Michigan
Intelligent Score: 89.84In-state: $16,520
Out-of-state: $53,669
In-state: $24,344
Out-of-state: $24,344
SAT: 1340-1520
ACT: 31-34
Resident: $2,469
Non-Resident: $2,645
On-Campus, Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
57
Seton Hall University
Intelligent Score: 89.05In-state: $42,920
Out-of-state: $42,920
In-state: $24,372
Out-of-state: $24,372
SAT: 1150-1310
ACT: 25-30
$1,465
On-Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
40
St. John’s University
Intelligent Score: 87.06In-state: $77,492
Out-of-state: $77,492
In-state: $66,882
Out-of-state: $66,882
SAT: 1110-1310
ACT: 24-29
$1,485
On-Campus, Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
36
University of Central Arkansas
Intelligent Score: 86.49In-state: $6,810
Out-of-state: $13,620
In-state: $5,018
Out-of-state: $5,018
SAT: 950-1150
ACT: 20-27
Resident: $293
Non-Resident: $586
On-Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
30
Pepperdine Graziadio Business School
Intelligent Score: 85.83In-state: $57,750
Out-of-state: $57,750
In-state: $36,200
Out-of-state: $36,200
SAT: 1200-1410
ACT: 26-31
$2,045
Hybrid
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
52
Park University
Intelligent Score: 85.08In-state: $8,251
Out-of-state: $8,251
In-state: $6,224
Out-of-state: $6,224
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$695
On-Campus, Online
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
36
How to Choose an MBA in International Business Program
Choose your area of study
While international business is already a specialization, you can further refine your expertise by selecting an area of study that aligns with your career goals. Options may include global finance, international marketing, supply chain, or cross-cultural management.
For instance, students eyeing a career in global finance would benefit from focusing on international financial strategies, whereas those interested in managing multinational teams might choose cross-cultural management.
By tailoring your studies, you can align your education with your professional goals while boosting your competitiveness in the job market. Specialization within your MBA can provide a distinctive advantage, making you stand out in the applicant pool and job scene.
Research schools and programs
When researching programs, you’ll want to consider how well each program supports your area of interest and evaluate other critical aspects to ensure the best fit. Key questions to guide your research include:
- What international experiences, like internships or study abroad, are available?
- How does the program’s curriculum align with current global business trends?
- What is the faculty’s background and expertise?
- What career support and networking opportunities does the program provide?
This information can be found by visiting program websites, attending information sessions or open houses, and speaking with admissions counselors. These resources can provide insights into how each program can meet your educational and career goals, helping you make an informed decision.
Prepare for tests and applications
When applying for your MBA in international business, start by securing transcripts and letters of recommendation early to avoid a last-minute rush. These parts of your application can be time-consuming, so getting a head start can be critical to a successful admissions experience.
Additionally, consider enrolling in a test prep program for the GMAT or GRE to maximize your scores. Don’t forget that your personal statement is your chance to stand out — focus on your international aspirations, professional experiences, and how the program aligns with your career goals. Write about your vision and the unique perspectives you bring.
Select your program
Once acceptance letters arrive, revisit your initial research criteria, focusing on elements most crucial to your career goals and personal preferences. Consider the program’s alignment with your interests, the quality of faculty, and the international opportunities offered. It’s also essential to evaluate the total cost of attendance alongside any financial aid packages to understand the financial commitment required.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Financing your MBA in international business without accruing substantial debt requires a strategic approach to financial aid.
Prioritize funding that doesn’t need to be repaid, like scholarships and grants, which are awarded based on merit, need, or specific criteria. Explore assistantship opportunities, which can offer tuition waivers or stipends in exchange for research or teaching duties. If you’re currently employed, ask your employer about tuition reimbursement programs, as many companies support continuing education.
If there are still financial gaps, federal loans should be your last resort, offering lower interest rates and more favorable repayment terms than private loans.
What Can You Expect From an MBA in International Business Program?
An MBA in international business prepares students for the global business landscape by offering all-encompassing training in cross-border commerce, international finance, and global marketing strategies. Generally taking 18 months to two years to complete, these programs examine subjects like international trade laws, cultural sensitivity in business, and global supply chain management, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to navigate international markets.
Many programs enhance learning through practical experiences, requiring students to engage in international internships or shadowing opportunities. This hands-on approach allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, fostering a deeper understanding of global business operations and practices. Such immersive experiences expand professional networks and cultivate adaptability and insights into the complexities of conducting business across cultures and regulations, positioning graduates for success in a globally interconnected economy.
Potential courses you’ll take in an MBA in international business program
- Global Financial Management: This course delves into the complexities of financial planning, asset management, and investment strategies in an international context. Students learn how currency fluctuations, cross-border investment risks, and global financial regulations influence economic decisions in multinational corporations.
- International Marketing Strategies: Students explore the nuances of marketing across different countries and cultures, including strategies for entering new markets, adapting products and marketing communications to local preferences, and navigating global digital marketing trends. The course emphasizes the importance of cultural sensitivity and local consumer behavior in creating effective international marketing plans.
- Cross-Cultural Management: This course focuses on the challenges and strategies for managing diverse teams in a global business environment. It covers leadership across cultures, conflict resolution, and motivational strategies for international teams, preparing students to lead effectively in a multicultural setting.
- Global Supply Chain and Operations Management: In this course, students learn about the complexities of managing supply chains that span multiple countries — including logistics, supplier management, and the impact of global trends on supply chain efficiency. It covers strategies for optimizing global operations, reducing costs, and improving sustainability in international supply networks.
MBA in International Business Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an MBA in international business degree program?
To apply for an MBA in international business, start by preparing your application packet, which typically includes:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- A minimum GPA, usually of 3.0
- Letters of recommendation from professional or academic references
- A personal statement outlining your career goals and reasons for pursuing the degree
- GMAT or GRE scores, as required by many programs
Don’t hesitate to reach out to an admissions counselor early in the process. They can provide insights into application requirements and offer advice on strengthening your application, ensuring you present your best self to the admissions committee.
How much does an MBA in international business degree cost?
The cost for these degrees can vary widely by institution. The average graduate tuition for the 2020-2021 academic year was $19,749. However, students should also budget for additional expenses like books, living expenses, and potential travel for internships or coursework, especially in traditional programs. These costs can significantly increase the overall investment in your education.
It’s essential to speak with a financial aid counselor at your prospective schools to understand the total cost of attendance and explore financial aid opportunities that may help offset some of these expenses.
How long does it take to earn an MBA in international business degree?
Earning this degree takes 18 months to two years for full-time students, depending on the program’s credit requirements. Part-time enrollment, which allows students to balance their studies with a full-time job or family commitments, usually extends the completion to three or four years. The total number of required credits can significantly impact program length, with more extensive programs taking longer to complete.