One of the primary questions aspiring MBA applications have is how an International MBA is different from a Global MBA. These two terms are broadly advertised on college websites and seem to indicate a shared commitment to a global business education that transcends borders. In most cases, however, these two terms are similar only at first glance. Upon more careful consideration of the two terms and their corresponding programs, students will find that there are key differences in curriculum, location, and admission procedures, that might help them make an easier decision between the available options, according to Forbes.

The Global MBA: What Does This Program Entail?

In most cases, a Global MBA refers to a program that teaches students more in-depth information about doing business abroad. This is essentially the graduate-level equivalent of an international business major for those pursuing an undergraduate degree in business management or business administration. A solid core of management courses will be the first endeavor undertaken by students in this program, teaching them the basics of executive-level leadership and how to manage everything from marketing to finances, accounting, and human resources.

After students complete the core of the program, they’ll move into courses in global business and international trade. This should be thought of as more of a concentration within the MBA framework. Students will learn about major trade agreements, the implications of macroeconomics and microeconomics when making management decisions on a global scale, and the ethical obligations that they will face as international businesspeople. When they graduate, students will be granted an MBA with a concentration in global business, global management, or international business, as the university deems appropriate.

So, What’s the International MBA?

An International MBA isn’t necessarily one that features courses in global management and international trade. Instead, the term is most often used to refer to MBA programs based internationally. Increasingly, American students are finding that programs in Europe and Asia are exceedingly prestigious, highly rigorous, and the perfect complement to an undergraduate degree in the field. These international programs teach business through the lens of their European or Asian location, but they don’t specifically focus on international issues. Instead, international management, ethical, and cultural issues are learned by students as the live abroad while completing the degree program.

These Terms are Sometimes Used Interchangeably

It’s worth noting that “international” and “global” are not always used in the exact same way by every university. Before assuming that any school’s international program is based abroad, or that their Global MBA program is based here in the United States, students should be diligent and do a fair amount of research. Before deciding on a program, learn more about its venue, its focus, and which courses are required in order to graduate. There are plenty of graduate-level business programs available to today’s students, so there’s simply no reason to choose a program that doesn’t feature the best courses, outcomes, location, and long-term career benefits.

Related Resource: Modular MBA

Exciting MBA Programs for Those with an International Mindset

Though different in their nature, both Global and International MBA programs will help students take advantage of an increasingly global, interconnected economy. Before choosing between the long list of programs available in each of these areas, be sure to perform a great deal of research and learn more about how an International MBA is different from a Global MBA.