Launch your career with an associate degree in international business

Major corporations, large- and medium-sized businesses are no longer confined to American borders. The global economy and digital data communications systems today mean that even a small company in a small American town can trade successfully in Africa, Asia, the Pacific Rim, Europe, Latin and South America without owning a single postage stamp. But it takes a lot of savvy and experience to successfully trade with a global market. Even entry-level jobs in marketing, manufacturing, sales and financial services require applicants with a comprehensive set of skills in international business and technology.

International business professionals often begin global careers by earning an associate degree. When you hold an international business degree, you're showing employers that you have a solid foundation in the concepts and practices necessary to compete on a global level. If you're already working in business or for a company that hopes to expand outside of the United States, enrolling in an online associate degree in international business program can provide the necessary flexibility to manage your family and work commitments. Many business administration associate degree programs offer just the right combination of communication and finance skills that lead to careers in health care, information systems, banking, marketing and management.

Associate degree in international business career opportunities

Interested in a degree in international business? Here are six careers you may qualify for after earning your degree, along with 2008 - 2018 growth projections from the Bureau of Labor Statistics:

• Accountant or auditor: 22 percent
• Advertising, marketing or sales manager: 22 percent
• Budget analysts: 15 percent
• Computer and information systems manager: 17 percent
• Management analyst: 24 percent

Inside your online associate degree in international business

Online students often report that while course requirements can be rigorous, they rarely feel isolated. Using email, streaming lectures, collaborative research sessions and bulletin-board threads, they communicate at their convenience with peers and faculty. Many forge lifelong friendships and business relationships during the two years it takes to complete an associate degree. Courses in an international business degree program typically include business communication, financial tools, economics, statistics, dedicated business software, mathematics, social science and history. You'll be well grounded in research techniques, including how to use reference libraries and business-focused publications.

Some colleges offering a degree in international business require practical internships with local businesses where you can gain invaluable experience putting your new skills to work. Internships may not immediately lead to jobs with the company, but you'll create contacts in your field and solid references for employment.

Financial aid for international business degree students

The comprehensive range of Federal undergraduate grants, loans and scholarships is generally offered to qualified business students. There are also local and state grants offered by business organizations. Visit the Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) website and complete an application to see if you qualify. You can also read WorldWideLearn.com's comprehensive guide to student aid to review the full spectrum of tuition assistance available.

Getting your degree in international business can provide a means for entering the exciting global marketplace or build an invaluable foundation for continuing your business studies. The business world is literally at your fingertips.

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