MS in International Business
Master of Science in International Business
Your Path to International Business Starts at GW Business
Unlock your potential as a global business leader by studying with expert faculty and earning a Master's in International Business (MSIB) at the George Washington University School of Business (GWSB). This interdisciplinary program equips ambitious professionals with in-demand international business skills required to compete in the dynamic global business environment. This international business master’s program, taught through a global lens, combines rigorous core coursework with experiential learning, including a required study abroad and a client consulting capstone, to develop your problem-solving skills in international business, finance and economics.
In the heart of Washington, D.C., our Department of International Business has built a widely respected reputation throughout academia and the international business community. That reputation and academic integrity, combined with a transformative study abroad and experiential learning component, provide the foundation for GW's MS in International Business. Unlike most other international business programs, overseas study and experiential education is a required component of the degree, giving students the opportunity to apply their learning in a global context.
First Things First: What Is a Master of Science in International Business?
A Master of Science in International Business, also known as a master's degree in international business, is a specialized graduate degree that trains students to think, lead and operate across markets, cultures and institutions, in consulting, finance, trade policy, global development or any field where the work crosses borders.
It provides a focused lens on how business functions across different markets, currencies, regulatory environments, cultural norms and geopolitical pressures. GW's program is in-person, in Washington, D.C., structured around real-world access and experiential learning that defines a career, not just a credential.
Designed to build competency quickly, the curriculum focuses on solving practical policy problems rather than abstract theory and can be completed in as little as 12 months, giving graduates the specific skills they need to enter international roles with confidence and momentum.
MSIB Program at a Glance
Total Credits: 33
Location: In-Person (Foggy Bottom Campus, Washington, D.C.)
Start Term: Fall, Spring
Commitment: Part-Time or Full-Time
Average Completion: 2 Years (Full-Time) or 2.5 Years (Part-Time)
Curriculum
GW's international business master's curriculum integrates global strategy, economic analysis, decision-making and applied learning. Sustainability and ethics are woven throughout, not confined to a single course. Students can take electives in sustainable energy and explore sustainability through study abroad consulting projects, where past cohorts have worked with Swedish companies on sustainability and high-tech innovation strategy. Consulting course teams have partnered with established U.S. companies as well: one team developed an export strategy for Land O'Lakes, mapping Japan's import and compliance requirements to bring a new specialty seasoning to that market. Some students have also competed in the International Business Ethics and Sustainability Case Competition, tackling real-world challenges in sustainable fashion.
Students can concentrate in global management, finance, data or other areas through elective selection. With only 12 required credits, students have significant flexibility to personalize their MSIB degree through electives tailored to your interests and cross-listed courses from GW's Elliott School of International Affairs. Elective credits may also apply toward a GW Business graduate certificate.
Global Strategy & Leadership
- Frameworks for competing across borders: international strategy, competitive dynamics in global markets and leadership in complex cross-cultural environments.
Analytics & Decision-Making
- Analytical fluency through coursework in data analysis, international economics, big data for international business and external development financing.
Experiential and Applied Learning
- The required study abroad and consulting capstone are the mechanisms through which coursework becomes professional capability, applied in real contexts with real clients.
- Sample Courses
- International Business Cornerstone
- International Business Strategy
- International Marketing
- Competition in the Global Economy
- Strategy Concepts
- Decision Making and Data Analysis
- Big Data for International Business
- International Economics
- External Development Financing
- Oil: Industry, Economy, Society and Security
- International Business Consulting Capstone
Maximize Your ROI: Customize Your Degree Path
- The 4+1 Program: Earn Your Bachelor’s and Master’s in Five Years
Students pursuing a bachelor's degree in an eligible GW school have the opportunity to accelerate the path to earning a Master's in International Business.
- Graduate Certificates: Build Specialized Expertise
Tailor your MSIB to your professional goals by adding a graduate certificate that builds specialized expertise alongside your core business education.
Choose from the following 12-credit graduate certificates or explore all certificate options:
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Financial Management
Build a strong foundation in corporate finance, including capital acquisition, investment strategy, value creation for stakeholders and responsible profit distribution.
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Global Management
Learn to lead organizations across international borders, including topics of marketing, global supply chain, human resources, operations, and consulting roles.
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Energy Systems Management
Provides education across the full spectrum of subjects central to the practice of energy management, including policy, management, technical foundations, statutory and regulatory frameworks, as well as social and policy considerations.
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Marketing & Brand Management
Learn to design a cohesive brand identity, manage the customer experience, analyze brand performance, and differentiate communication strategies local and global markets.
Why GW Business?
The MS in International Business program offers students extraordinary access to unique learning experiences, internships, and robust networking opportunities. The strength of our top-ranked resources, internationally renowned professors with years of business-leading experience, and our ever-expanding network of D.C.’s influential global organizations position you for a successful career as an international business professional.
Career Outcomes
Professionals with an international business master's degree are in demand across consulting, finance, global development, trade policy, supply chain and beyond. Graduates of GW's MSIB report a median first-year salary of $77,000. Those careers grow significantly: according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, financial analysts and management analysts earn a median annual wage of $101,190, and operations research analysts earn $91,290 with 21% projected growth.
Where Our Alumni Are Leading
GW Business graduates go on to work across a wide range of sectors—from federal agencies and government contractors to consulting firms, major tech companies, global financial institutions, healthcare and life sciences organizations, nonprofits and the defense and intelligence community.
- Accenture Federal Services
- Amazon
- Aon
- Association of American Publishers
- AT&T
- Baker Tilly
- Basque Trade and Investment
- Bertelsmann
- Boeing
- Capital One
- Chemonics\Deloitte
- Ernst & Young
- European Union Delegation to the
- United States
- Hilton
- International Finance Corporation (IFC)
- International Monetary Fund (IMF)
- Joint Technology Solutions
- KPMG, Kiewit
- McKinsey & Company
- PwC
- RTX
- TradeMoves
- Volkswagen Group of America
- The World Bank
Career Support
Dedicated Career Center
The GW Business F. David Fowler Career Center provides exclusive access to employer connections, recruiting opportunities and career resources, including professional development workshops on technical skills, presentations and salary negotiation.
Personalized Career Coaching
Experienced career coaches with a proven track record of supporting successful career outcomes and advancement help you build an effective job search strategy while providing resume reviews and mock interviews.
Mentorship Opportunities
Participate in the Careers360 program to connect with industry mentors in consulting, finance or marketing.
Global Alumni Network
With more than 60,000 alumni spanning 260+ organizations, Fortune 500 companies, startups, and nonprofits around the world, you’ll gain access to mentorship, connections and career opportunities that open doors and accelerate your impact.
Admissions
Admission to GW's MS in International Business (MSIB) program is competitive, with limited enrollment to support a collaborative, cohort-based learning experience.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and early submission is encouraged.
Our admissions team is here to guide you through the process and answer any questions along the way. Learn more about application requirements and next steps on our How to Apply page.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and early submission is encouraged. The admissions committee takes a holistic approach, considering academic performance, professional experience and achievements, and letters of recommendation.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities
- Current résumé
- Statement of Purpose: In no more than 500 words, describe how this program fits into your professional life and your career objectives.
- One letter of recommendation from a professional and/or academic reference
- Application fee (non-refundable)
- Completed online application form
No GRE or GMAT is required. However, applicants who feel their test scores strengthen their candidacy are welcome to submit them.
Applicants who require a visa to study in the United States must also fulfill additional requirements in order to be considered for admission to a graduate program at the School of Business.
Tuition, Fees & Funding
Tuition: Tuition is determined on a per-credit basis, which may very each semester depending on the number of courses you take. The base tuition for this 33-credit master's degree is ~$68,500. Students should also plan for university fees, books and living expenses. Since rates are reviewed and updated annually, prospective students are encouraged to check the official GW tuition and fees page for the most current cost information.
Financial Aid: Many GW Business students receive merit-based awards to offset tuition costs and expenses. Additional options include graduate assistantships, employer sponsorship, and federal financial aid.
CONTACT US
Meet Your GW School of Business Team
Behind every step of your MSIB journey is a team ready to help. Connect with faculty, admissions and advising to get the answers and guidance you need.
Admissions Team
business
gwu [dot] edu (subject: MS%20in%20International%20Business%20admissions) (Email Admissions Team)
Faculty Director
Academic Advisor
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a Master of Science in International Business?
A Master of Science in International Business is a specialized graduate degree that prepares professionals to work effectively across borders, in strategy, consulting, finance, trade or global development. The MS designation reflects the program's rigorous analytical and quantitative focus, distinguishing it from a Master of Arts in the same field. GW's MSIB combines this foundation with required experiential learning and in-person immersion in Washington, D.C.
- What does a master's in international business teach you?
A master’s in international business teaches you to analyze global markets, develop cross-border strategy, lead across cultures and apply business skills in real international contexts. At GW, that means coursework in international economics, global strategy, data analysis and finance, combined with a required study abroad and a client-facing consulting capstone. Graduates leave with both the analytical framework of international business demands and the practical experience to apply them.
- How is a master's in international business different from an MBA?
A master's in international business is a specialized degree focused specifically on international economics, global strategy, cultural fluency and market analysis. GW's master of international business is designed for students who know international business is where they want to build their career, offering a focused curriculum completable in as little as 12 months.
- Do I need a business background to apply to the MSIB?
No prior business background is needed to apply to GW's international business master’s. Students come from international relations, political science, economics, engineering, public policy and the social sciences. What matters most is intellectual curiosity and genuine interest in international contexts.
- Is the study abroad component really required?
Yes, study abroad is required in GW's MSIB, and that is intentional. International immersion is not optional in this program because international experience is not optional in international business careers. Study abroad programs are built around real consulting engagements with companies in the destination country, so students return with work they can speak to in interviews.
- What is the OPT situation for international students?
International students who complete the MSIB are eligible for 12 months of Optional Practical Training after graduation. The MSIB is not STEM-designated, so the 24-month STEM OPT extension does not apply. Students with questions about OPT are encouraged to contact GW's International Services Office.
- Is an international business master's degree worth it?
An international business master's degree is worth it for students who want to build a career across borders. As 2026 graduate Joselle Mensah put it: "I would say totally yes, 100%. The flexibility is great. The location is amazing. The level of events you're exposed to, and that you can access only because you're a student here, is something you may not have as a professional."
- Can I complete the MSIB part-time?
Yes. Evening classes give both full-time and part-time students the flexibility to manage work, internships or other commitments alongside their studies.
- What career support is available to MSIB students?
MSIB students have access to dedicated career support through GW's F. David Fowler Career Center and Careers360 program, including coaching, employer connections, networking events and site visits, all actively leveraging Washington, D.C.'s unmatched concentration of relevant employers and institutions.
Learn More
Attend an Info Session
Info sessions and open houses, offered in-person and online, are your chance to explore what makes our programs stand out. Connect directly with our faculty and staff to learn about the MS in International Business program, career outcomes, study abroad options, the admissions process and more.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Prepare to lead business beyond borders. GW's Master of Science in International Business puts you at the center of global business, in the city where those conversations happen, at a school with the relationships to open the doors.
Latest MSIB News & Research
