International Business

International Business graduates understand the international contexts of business decision-making.

International Business students study how global, regional and local forces, such as economic, political, technological or environmental factors shape global markets and business strategies. Focuses include globalisation, de-globalisation, trade, exports and international management. Students develop practical skills in problem solving, creative thinking, situational analysis and gain a global, multi-cultural perspective on issues.

Roles and career pathways

Support roles  provide an entry point

Analysing key business issues from a global perspective gives International Business graduates the knowledge and skills for a wide range of roles. Early roles for graduates may be: administrators, project coordinators, graduate advisors or analysts.

They may progress  into roles such as:

  • business development adviser
  • international marketing executive
  • logistics coordinator
  • management consultant
  • project or programme coordinator
  • import/export agent
  • procurement adviser
  • global sales account manager
  • HR adviser

Some of these roles will require additional study or experience.

Complementary  subjects or postgraduate study can lead  to further opportunities

It is common for International Business students to study another commerce major for example Human Resources and Employment Relations (HRER), Management or Marketing. They can also include an outside major or degree in Law, Science or Arts, where subjects such as History, Sociology, Environmental Studies or Development Studies can all complement an International Business degree. Postgraduate study can lead to research possibilities, policy roles or academic research and teaching. The Master of Global Marketing and Master of Global Management are popular courses for people interested in these areas.

Graduate career stories

Head and shoulders portrait of Nikki Everton in front of a marina

Nikki Everton

Travel sparked Nikki’s interest in International Business, a programme that helped her develop speaking and presenting skills she’s used in several roles.

Where International Business graduates work

Graduates work across the private and public sector in a wide range of organisations that operate in a global environment. These include non-profit organisations, Government agencies, global organisations such as banks or logistics and IT companies, and professional services firms such as management consultancies, recruitment and talent search agencies.

Recent International Business graduates have worked in organisations such as:

Build relevant skills and experience

Internships  and part-time work experiences are valuable

Relevant part-time work and volunteering during study all help to increase your job prospects when you graduate. Many employers offer internship roles, where you can gain valuable work experience and connections before completing your studies. You can explore internships on the NZUni Talent job board and find out more about internships here. The WFHSS Internship course run by the Wellington Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences helps develop leadership skills and practical workplace experience in Wellington.

Studying overseas and global exchanges bring new perspectives

Participating in the Wellington Global  Exchange for one or two trimesters of your undergraduate or some postgraduate degree programmes gives you the opportunity to experience new cultures and perspectives, broaden your degree and enhance your skills.

Make career connections

Networking associations such as the Wellington Chamber of Commerce and Wellington Young Professionals offer various events and opportunities for networking.

VicCom is a student-led group that offers a range of business networking and social events for Commerce students.

Victoria Business Consulting Club offer real-word opportunities to work on business problems with local employers during competition events.