The benefits of gaining a MBA that is taught from a global perspective are evident, but choosing to specialize a Global MBA often provides students with the best value when it comes to advanced degree offerings. Going global has become a standard growth strategy for many companies that operate in today’s business environment. Successful operations in foreign markets require the leadership of business professionals who have specialized skills as well as broad-based knowledge of fundamental business principles. Here are some popular Global MBA specializations to consider based upon their association with high-growth, global industries.

Global Hospitality and Tourism Management

Nearly everyone dreams of escaping their regular routines to travel to exotic locations, and continued competition within the tourism industry makes global leisure travel possible for many people. Companies that operate within the hospitality industry must anticipate the needs of their target customers to maintain lasting and lucrative relationships with them. Global MBA in Hospitality degree programs prepare students to lead marketing campaigns for recognized hotel and resort chains, restaurants, car rental agencies and theme parks. Most of these academic programs also expose students to the principles of tourism asset management for businesses that operate globally. Outstanding Global MBA in Hospitality and Tourism Management programs include relevant internships abroad, and their courses help to prepare students to obtain career-enhancing industry certifications in areas such as sustainable hospitality operations.

Global Supply Chain Management

Modern societies are increasingly dependent upon local retailers for consumable and durable goods. Since many of the goods that are sold in the United States are made elsewhere, highly efficient global supply chains are needed to deliver these goods to retail shelves undamaged and at reasonable prices for consumers. Global MBA in Supply Chain Management degree programs provide students with in-depth knowledge about distribution and transportation systems in foreign markets, widely used enterprise resource planning systems and demand planning and management. Graduates of these programs often find employment within multinational corporations like Wal-Mart, Dell and Toyota as purchasing managers, transportation specialists and operations analysts.

Global Real Estate

Real property ownership is universally important to both businesses and individuals. Companies and individual investors must understand a number of factors before choosing to purchase or sell real estate worldwide. Also, the globalized nature of the modern business environment means that economic and political events in one country can impact the supply or demand for real estate in far-away regions, according to the National Association of Realtors. Global MBA in Real Estate students become experts in specialized financial concepts such as asset valuation, commercial real estate development in overseas markets and the economics of urban property use. Graduates of these programs often become real estate consultants to multinational companies, international non-profit organizations and even government agencies.

Global MBA in Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility

Today’s consumers want to know that they financially support businesses that operate ethically toward people and the environment. Since today’s supply chains are complex, many multinational corporations take extra steps to ensure that fair wages and environmental stewardship are prominent throughout their operations. Global MBA in Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility degree programs instruct students about how to integrate sustainability and social responsibility into corporations’ strategic missions, visions and operating plans.

Related Resource: MBA in Information Technology

Conclusion

While competition for jobs is on the rise in most global industries, students who acquire the appropriate knowledge, skills and experiences can usually position themselves for success. Options to specialize a Global MBA are expanding, and savvy students choose global business concentration areas that reflect their professional interests and personal passions.