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International Finance

Program Description

Just the Facts

International Finance. A program that prepares individuals to manage international financial operations and related currency transactions. Includes instruction in international banking, international monetary and financial policy, money and capital markets, foreign exchange, risk analysis, and international cash flow operations.

This program is available in these options:

  • Associate degree
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Graduate Certificate
  • Master's degree
  • Doctoral degree

High School Courses

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Additional Information

You can take degree programs in international business at the undergraduate and graduate levels, most of which come with opportunities for study abroad. But while most undergraduate programs offer excellent training, plan to pursue a graduate degree to land that fabulous job.

"We are finding that a bachelor's degree is not enough," says Lorna Unger, a professor of international business. "A student really must go on for a graduate degree, either an MBA or a law degree, to be able to work internationally."

Language skills are also crucial. "Any student planning this type of career should learn at least one other language, if not three or four," says Lawrence Husted, dean of Lynchburg College's school of business and economics. "For example, if you speak Spanish and want to work in Latin America, you should learn Portuguese as well."

San Diego State University (SDSU) offers an international business program called MEXUS. Students spend two years studying in the U.S. plus two years in Mexico and receive university degrees from both nations -- a BA in international business and the Licenciatura en Negocios Internacionales.

Teresa Cisneros-Donahue, director of MEXUS, says graduates have in-depth training in business concepts as well as language and cultural skills that allow them to be comfortable doing business on either side of the U.S.-Mexico border.

She suggests high school students who want to enter MEXUS study a minimum of four years of Spanish as well as math and English.

Project North America takes the MEXUS idea a step further and involves all three countries on the continent. SDSU students who participate in this program study in both Canada and Mexico.

David Thomas, associate director of an international business program, says joining industry or community groups would be good preparation. "If a student has a chance to go on exchange or travel, it will make international business more attractive and provide him with a focus. Language skills are also important."

There are the usual expenses of tuition and books. But keep in mind that study-abroad programs require a little more pocket money than a basic business degree. "The tuition and living expenses are the same," explains Unger, "but most people who go abroad stay in a holiday mode, so they are traveling and spending extra money."

You may want to choose a business school that is accredited by the American Assembly of Collegiate Schools of Business.


Links

Occupational Outlook Handbook
Find more information related to foreign affairs or international economics and business

Global Edge Resource Desk
An award-winning directory of international business web links

International Business Forum
Business opportunities around the world

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OCAP believes that financial literacy and understanding the financial aid process are critical aspects of college planning and student success. OCAP staff who work with students, parents, educators and community partners in the areas of personal finance education, state and federal financial aid, and student loan management do not provide financial, investment, legal, and/or tax advice. This website and all information provided is for general educational purposes only, and is not intended to be construed as financial, investment, legal, and/or tax advice.