Careers in International Business: What Are My Job Options?

Career opportunities in international business are available in a variety of fields, such as finance, consulting and manufacturing. Read on to learn about some of your options in international business. Schools offering International Business degrees can also be found in these popular choices.

What Type of Work Is Available in International Business?

A few examples of areas where you might find work are:

  • Financial management
  • Market research
  • International banking
  • Global sales
  • Management analysis

As a financial manager at an international firm, you could oversee multinational banking transactions or handle investments for global interests. In this position, you can deal with multinational corporations, in addition to individuals and clients in government. You also might work on protecting a company from fluctuations in currency value.

If you're interested in becoming a management analyst working with international customers, you could be hired to solve problems and help companies be more competitive in a global environment. Some other jobs you can pursue in international business include international buyer, product manager or account executive.

Where Might I Find Work?

If you want to work in the field of international business, you could find yourself living outside of the U.S. or handling international business functions from a domestic location. In addition to jobs at international banks and financial institutions, you could work for insurance companies or law firms that provide services to international clients. You might find work with companies that engage in manufacturing, exporting and importing goods. If you were a manager at one of these companies, you might be responsible for building relationships with companies in other countries in order to find the most cost-effective way to produce a commodity or purchase goods.

You also could find work with market research groups, advertising companies or public relations firms. To work in these firms, you likely would be required to speak a foreign language and be informed about social norms, economic structures and political structures that differ from country to country.

What Is the Growth Potential?

Projected employment growth depends on the type of career you choose. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of management analysts was projected to increase by 24% from 2008-2018, partially due to an expansion in international business (www.bls.gov). Meanwhile, the BLS reported that jobs in financial management were anticipated to grow at the average rate for all professions. Demand for market researchers who study foreign markets could lead to employment growth for these professionals.

To continue researching, browse degree options below for course curriculum, prerequisites and financial aid information. Or, learn more about the subject by reading the related articles below:

  • 1. Degree Options:

Popular Schools