Online Master's in International Business: Reviewing Top Schools

Are You Ready? Five Questions to Ask Yourself Before Enrolling

Beginning a master’s program is exciting, no matter the subject, but it’s important to do a little self-reflection first. Are you truly ready for this commitment? Below are five questions to help you gauge your readiness in an online master’s in international business:

1. What are my career goals with this degree? — Do you want a promotion, a career change into a global role, or to boost your credentials for a leadership position? Knowing your “why” will keep you motivated.
2. Can I balance work, life, and study time? — Online programs are flexible, but you’ll still need to dedicate 10-15+ hours per week to coursework. Consider your current job and family obligations and how you will manage your time effectively.
3. Am I truly interested in global business? — Successful international business students are genuinely curious about other cultures, economies, and world events. Ask yourself if you’re excited by topics like international markets, cross-cultural communication, and foreign affairs.
4. Is the online learning format right for me? — Think about your learning style. Will you stay disciplined with recorded lectures and self-paced work? Are you comfortable collaborating virtually with classmates from afar? If you learn well independently and are tech-savvy, you’ll likely thrive online.
5. How will I finance my degree? — Do you have a plan for tuition and fees (savings, loans, employer tuition assistance, etc.)? Ensuring you have financial resources for your master’s degree can reduce stress.

Comparing 3 Online International Business Master’s

Understanding the Cost of an Online International Business Master’s

The cost of an online international business master’s can vary widely. Tuition is the main fixed cost, usually charged per credit hour. Many online programs charge the same tuition for in-state and out-of-state students, which can make them more affordable if you’re attending an out-of-state institution. 

Beyond tuition, budget for fees (technology fees, online platform fees, etc.), which can be a few hundred dollars per term. Variable costs include textbooks or e-books and possibly a computer upgrade or software. 

Studying online can save you money on relocation, housing, or commuting — no need to quit your job or move cities. To finance your degree, explore employer tuition reimbursement, scholarships, and federal aid/FAFSA.

Below is a comparison of the tuition for the three programs above:

International Business Careers: An Overview

Earning a master’s in international business can open career opportunities including higher-level positions and new roles that leverage global business expertise. Accelerate your career or gain the credentials needed to take on international assignments. Marketing managers have a median annual salary around $157,000, and if you’re in sales or operations, you could aim for a promotion to international sales manager or global operations director.

If you’re changing careers or want to transition into the international arena, a master’s provides specialized knowledge. Roles include international business development consultant, global supply chain manager, or trade compliance analyst. Management consulting is another path with a median pay around $99,000, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Beyond moving up or switching fields, some alumni pursue jobs abroad and leadership roles like director of international operations, vice president of global strategy, or C-suite positions in internationally-focused companies. Many of these roles come with strong growth prospects and compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an online master’s in international business respected by employers?

Yes, as long as your degree is from an accredited institution, employers regard an online master’s in international business as equivalent to on-campus degrees. Employers are interested in the skills and knowledge you bring, so be prepared to discuss projects you completed and global business insights you gained.

What’s the difference between an MBA in International Business and a Master’s in International Business (MIB)?

An MBA in International Business is a Master of Business Administration program with a concentration in international topics. It covers broad business management fundamentals (accounting, finance, operations, etc.) like any MBA, with a few specialized courses in global business. In contrast, a Master of International Business (MIB) (or M.S. in International Business) is a specialized degree entirely focused on international business themes; every course is taught with a global perspective.

Do I need a bachelor’s in business (or related field) to get into an international business master’s program? And is the GMAT/GRE required?

Most programs welcome students from a variety of academic backgrounds. You’ll need a bachelor’s degree, but it can be in business, engineering, arts, etc. If you did not major in business, some programs ask you to complete prerequisite basics (like economics or accounting) either before or during the program. GMAT/GRE exams are increasingly becoming optional or waivable for online master’s programs. Always check the specific program’s policy and grad school admissions requirements.

Will I need to know a foreign language or travel abroad during an online international business program?

Neither is typically required, though both can be beneficial. Courses in virtually all U.S.-based programs are taught in English, and there is usually no foreign language requirement to enroll or to graduate. Knowing another language can help your international business career and some students take language electives. Study abroad is generally optional. The curriculum uses case studies and virtual collaborations to simulate global business scenarios.

Can I network and build connections even though the program is online?

Yes. You’ll interact with professors and peers through video conferencing, discussion boards, and group projects. Many programs, like Northeastern’s, incorporate weekly live class sessions where you can talk and collaborate in real time. Don’t underestimate the relationships you can build in grad school just because it’s online — by the end of your program, you might have close contacts in multiple countries.

Ranking Online Master’s Programs in International Business

We use a data-driven approach to rank the top online international business master’s degrees. Only fully accredited schools that offer the degree at least partially online made our list. Key factors like affordability, online accessibility, student support services, and teacher-student ratio were also considered.