As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the demand for professionals who understand how businesses operate in different cultural, economic, and political environments, is growing.

In fact, cross-cultural competence is among the key skills expected to rise in demand over the next five years, according to the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC).

An MBA in International Business prepares students for leadership roles in global organizations, opening up career prospects in multinational and international companies, and across industries such as finance, marketing, consulting, and trade.

How to choose the right MBA in International Business

With so many MBA programs offering a global focus, choosing the right one comes down to what matters most to you—whether it’s international study opportunities, cultural diversity, or flexibility.

At the University of New Brunswick Saint John (UNB Saint John), students pursuing an MBA in International Business build a strong foundation in global markets through courses in International Business Ethics and International Financial Management.

With opportunities to study abroad in France or Dubai, students can take their knowledge outside the classroom to gain real-world experience of international business environments.

For both JiaoJiao Meng, a 2016 UNB Saint John MBA graduate from China, and Stella Udekwe, a current MBA student from Nigeria, the opportunity to gain international exposure was a big draw.

“I started with a pre-MBA program, which is a bridge towards the MBA program at UNB Saint John. The MBA program helped me to quickly become engaged in the local community and to learn more about Canadian culture,” says JiaoJiao.

A significant part of JiaoJiao’s global MBA experience was studying abroad in Dijon, France.

“I had the opportunity to study in France and experience its education systems and culture,” recalls JiaoJiao. “UNB Saint John offers the option of either a semester or a full year of exchange study. I met amazing teachers and classmates, with whom I formed long-term friendships.”

JiaoJiao credits the program with helping her start her life in Canada, where she has been now living for over 10 years.

For Stella (pictured), who was senior operations officer at an investment company prior to her MBA, the ability to specialize in Luxury Management and Innovation while studying abroad in Dijon has been an eye-opening experience.

“Being able to choose whether to study in France or Dubai was really appealing,” says Stella. “It meant I was not only learning business, I was also learning about the culture of other places.”

How an MBA in International Business can help you build a global network

As well as being able to study and socialize alongside an international mix of students, an MBA in International Business offers students the chance to build valuable relationships with business leaders, alumni, and peers that can help advance their career globally.

At UNB Saint John, this networking starts in the classroom, where students from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds can learn from each other’s experiences.

“I have really expanded my global network through my MBA. I’ve been given the opportunity to connect with alumni, people who have actually gone to school here, as well as those who teach or have taught here,” says Stella.

A key factor in Stella’s expanding network is the cross-cultural communication skills she developed during her 15-month MBA.

“Cross-cultural communication has been extremely helpful. Prior to going to Canada, I didn't realize that some people communicate very differently to how I do.”

JiaoJiao similarly found that studying in such a diverse environment, both in the classroom and abroad, was one of the most valuable assets for her career growth post-MBA.

“I made so many friends from all over the world—I started my global citizen journey at UNB St John,” she comments, going on to say that studying in France was a program highlight, giving her the chance to learn about French culture—and the country’s wines.

“I very much appreciate all the friendships and experiences I enjoyed as an MBA student, which have prepared me for my career as an HR professional. I have been actively supporting my communities and organizations with a hands-on DEI approach since graduating from my MBA program in 2016, helping more talented individuals launch their meaningful careers in Canada,” says JiaoJiao.

How can an MBA in International Business develop your career?

For JiaoJiao, studying an MBA in International Business also helped her to develop a global mindset.

“The world is so diverse, you learn a lot from working with different cultures and understanding the international community around you.”

Understanding immigration, multiculturalism, different educational systems, employment and community opportunities have helped her in many ways in her career as an HR professional, she explains.

Many MBA programs in International Business incorporate case studies and practical projects that give students insight into real-world challenges companies face when dealing with international markets. In Stella’s experience, this proved especially useful.

“The program offers a chance to learn strategy, how to analyze international businesses and develop business models. We looked at a lot of international case studies, we learned how to do SWOT analysis, to build business frameworks,” she says.

What to consider before starting an MBA in International Business

Stella recommends coming to the program with an open mind, but also with a clear idea of what you want to do—and where.

“You can’t choose the international elements of the program without knowing what you want. Ask yourself, would this be helpful to me in 10 years, would this be helpful to me abroad, would this be helpful to my country?”.

MBAs are known for their high return on investment, but maximizing their value requires careful planning.

If you’re planning to study full-time, it’s important to consider budgeting for your studies if you won’t be working while doing the program, advises Stella. But making the most of the program’s opportunities is essential for boosting your career outcomes.

“It's important for MBA candidates to make the most of every networking opportunity, internship, professional session or exchange study. It’s quite an intensive program but it offers a wealth of valuable resources and networking opportunities, both during the MBA and after graduation,” JiaoJiao concludes.