Key questions

A. Trade content focus

1. Core trade program curriculum: Does the program curriculum specifically address international business and trade topics? Ask questions to ascertain that these core trade program content areas are reflected in the master’s program you are considering – before you enroll.
   1. Cross-border trade: Courses that prepare you to meet the complexities of global trade including: developing market entry strategies; sustainable sourcing; procurement and negotiation skills; international marketing; traditional and digital sales; and e-commerce.
   2. Cross-border trade policy: Courses relating to the agreements, regulations and practices by governments and trade bodies that affect cross-border trade.
   3. Cross-border logistics & supply chain management: Courses covering international supply chain management strategies; transportation and logistics; digital trade; cross-border manufacturing; and trade documentation.
   4. Cross-border trade finance & accounting: Courses relating to the financial instruments and products used by companies to facilitate international trade and commerce, the management of assets, liabilities and protections - including foreign exchange.
   5. Cross-border leadership & soft skills: Courses relating to the key elements that future leaders should acquire to effectively familiarize themselves with the psychological, physiological, geographical, geopolitical, anthropological and sociological factors of international business.
      
      Ask how the program will go beyond theory to equip students with the mindset and skills to navigate complex global change. In what ways does the program focus on and measure changes in the way students think and learn? What practical high-impact learning is involved that emphasizes architecting solutions, engaging emerging markets and the ability to rapidly rethink global trade strategies?
   6. Future skills for cross-border trade: Courses relating to technologies that are changing the way trade is conducted such as AI, big data analytics and blockchain.
2. Specialization: Does the program offer specialization tracks in international business or related fields that align with your trade career aspirations?
3. Capstone project / thesis: Can students focus their capstone project or thesis on international business or trade topics? Are there opportunities to work on developing solutions for companies engaged in cross-border business?

B. Trade program attributes

1. Industry engagement: In what ways does the program emphasize industry engagement to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world practice in global trade, such as through guest speakers, internships, research projects, consulting assignments and work-integrated learning with industry partners?
2. Practitioner professors: How many faculty members have significant professional experience working in global trade or multinational businesses, allowing them to provide real-world insights and ensure graduates gain practical skills for the workforce?
3. Leading research: What is the volume, quality and citation impact of faculty research publications focused on areas relevant to international trade such as trade policy, logistics, finance and technology applications? How does this demonstrate the program's expertise and scholarly impact as it relates to meeting employers’ needs?
4. Career services: What career services are available to prepare students for the job market, such as career advising, job portals, recruitment fairs, mentorship programs and alumni networking opportunities focused on the international trade and commerce sector?
5. Employer recruiting: What companies actively recruit graduates from this program for internships and full-time roles? How does the university facilitate networking, interviews and recruitment activities with employers in the global trade and business sector?
6. Employer satisfaction: What companies actively recruit graduates from this program, demonstrating their confidence in the skills and knowledge gained? How does strong employer satisfaction enhance the program's reputation and facilitate industry partnerships for opportunities like internships, guest lectures and research projects?
7. Graduate outcomes: What percentage of graduates secure paid employment in roles related to international trade within 6 months of completing the program? How do the curriculum, industry engagement, career services, faculty experience and program reputation contribute to strong graduate outcomes?
8. Success in leadership development: What percentage of graduates from this program have assumed senior leadership / executive positions within 5-10 years after completing the degree? How does the curriculum and teaching approach effectively develop strategic thinking, decision-making and leadership capabilities for future global leaders?

C. International focus

1. Contemporary international context: Does the program incorporate contemporary case studies, simulations and guest lectures from international trade practitioners?
2. International partnerships: Does the university have partnerships with businesses or multilateral organizations across a variety of industry sectors that offer internships or research opportunities?
3. Study abroad: Are there opportunities to study abroad for a semester? What are the specific areas that the overseas program can contribute to your career aspirations?
4. Research facilities: Does the university have research centers or institutes focused on international business or trade?
5. Language skills: Does the program encourage or require foreign language study?

D. Cost & financial aid

1. Tuition & fees: What are the total costs associated with the program, including tuition, fees, subscriptions, field trips, labs, international travel, exchanges and other expenses? What are the costs for your student status: international, local, resident, national or exchange?
2. Cost of living: What is the estimated cost of living in the city where the university is located?
3. Availability of scholarships or fellowships: Does the program or institution offer scholarships or fellowships specifically for master’s students in international business programs?
4. Financial aid for international students: Does the university or program offer financial aid or provide access to scholarships for international students?
5. Return on Investment (ROI): How do graduates perceive the ROI of the program in terms of career advancement and salary increase?