International Trade and Finance degree

Learn about associate's, bachelor's and master's degree programs in international trade. Get details on admission requirements and coursework at each degree level, and explore career options and continuing education opportunities after graduation.

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Essential Information

Undergraduate and graduate degree programs in international business and trade explore global markets, international business communications and financial theory. Admission to bachelor's and master's programs requires fluency in a language other than English, and some master's programs also have work experience requirements. Both bachelor's and master's programs frequently offer study abroad or international student exchange opportunities. Students at the bachelor's level may be able to choose degree specializations, like global politics or international finance.

Associate's Degree in International Business and Trade

Some community colleges offer associate's degree programs in international business or international business administration. These programs teach students the skills applicable to international trade, importing and exporting, international product marketing and global supply chain management. Professors often use classroom instruction, transaction simulation and case studies to teach students. Commonly, this type of program leads to an Associate of Applied Science in International Business.

Educational Prerequisites

Applicants to international business associate's degree programs need to at least have high school diplomas or equivalent to be admitted. Because strong communication skills and an understanding of advanced mathematical concepts are integral to international trade, taking high school courses in speech, calculus and economics is advantageous.

Program Coursework

Students learn about business practices, international trade regulations and laws that affect transnational commerce. Programs also cover business technology, communication and finance. Students are often required to take courses covering the following subjects:

• International economics
• International business ethics
• International marketing strategy
• International finance
• International trade theory

Popular Career Options

People who earn associate's degrees in international business and trade qualify for entry-level jobs working with transnational companies. Graduates often hold the positions noted below:

• International corporation receptionist
• International marketing assistant
• Import-export assistant

Bachelor's Degree in International Business

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree programs in international business are interdisciplinary, covering areas like finance, marketing, law, economics and the social sciences. Students can often participate in international exchange programs that allow them to gain experience with international trade firsthand. Programs often have foreign language requirements as well. Most international business programs emphasize business and trade relations between the United States and either Europe or Asia.