What Can I Do With A Major In International Business?

Introduction

Career opportunities in international business vary. As business in general becomes more global, many domestic jobs have increasing international components. Thus, having an international job will not automatically mean working overseas. Often a domestic job in a more traditional functional area of business, such as marketing, finance, production and operations, human resource management, and accounting serves as a springboard to an international assignment.

Internationally focused job opportunities exist in a very broad spectrum of businesses and industries. Examples include: airlines, automotive, banking, communications, computer-related and other high technology, consulting, financial services, food products, medical, manufacturing, mining, oil and gas, pharmaceutical, and retailing.

Business graduates also can work in governmental organizations operating in the international arena. Organizations such as the Agency for International Development, International Monetary Fund, Inter-American Development Bank, U.S. Department of Commerce, U.S. State Department, and the World Bank provide excellent opportunities to apply business skills while also developing greater international awareness and cultural sensitivity, all of which later on can be applied to a position in a global business firm.

Career success in the international arena is enhanced through the possession of basic business knowledge and skills including an understanding of international business markets and operations, the development of cultural understanding and sensitivity, and a willingness to operate in a highly dynamic environment requiring flexability and adaptability.

A Sample of Related Occupations

Related Occupations Related Occupations Related Occupations
Banker Commodities Broker Congressional Staffer
Counsular Assistant Export/Import Manager Financial Analyst
Foreign Correspondent Foreign Service Officer Foreign Specialist
Foundation Representative Human Resources Immigration Officer
Intelligence Officer International Banker International Business Analyst
International Hotel Manager Management Consultant Market Research
Operations Manager Overseas Service Agent Peace Corps
Public Relations Sales Manager Travel Agent/Guide
   
 

Types of Employers  

Private and Non-profit Organizations  

 

Advertising Agencies

Airlines

Conference Planning

Consulting Firms

Educational Institutions

Financial Institutions

Hospitality Industry

Import/Export

International Companies

Investment Firms

Manufacturing Firms

Marketing Firms

Museums

Newspapers

Oil Companies

Pharmaceutical Firms

Publishing Companies

Relief Agencies

Restaurants (International)

Travel Industry

 
Government Agencies
 

Agency for International Development

Association of Southeast Asian Nations

European Community

Inter-American Development Bank

International Chamber of Commerce

International Monetary Fund

Organization of American States

United Nations

U.S. Department of Commerce

U.S. International Trade Commission

World Bank

World Trade Organization

Related Web Links

 

Professional Associations

For additional career information, see the Occupational Outlook Handbook