Program Overview

International Business Administration Programme

The International Business Administration (IBA) programme at VU Amsterdam offers students the opportunity to explore the principles and standards of good business, as well as the cultural nuances and behaviours that can have a major impact on a business's success. This programme is designed to provide students with a broad skill set to thrive in any international business environment.

Programme Overview

The IBA programme is a three-year bachelor's degree that covers all aspects of international business, from global supply chain management to cross-cultural marketing. Students will learn how to operate in a global business setting and get hands-on experience working with international companies. The programme is geared towards helping students navigate the global waters and putting their business skills to the test in a variety of environments.

Curriculum

The curriculum is divided into three years, each with its own set of subjects and focus areas.

First Year

In the first year, students will focus on the broad skill set needed to thrive in any international business environment. The subjects covered include:

• SAM Programme IBA
• Academic Skills
• English Language Test
• People in Business and Society
• Research Participation I
• Business Mathematics
• Organization Theory
• Global Sustainability
• Business Statistics
• Global Supply Chain Management
• Accounting
• Cross Cultural Marketing
• Business Processes

Second Year

During the second year, students will explore the deeper issues of an international business environment. The subjects covered include:

• Business Information Systems
• Economic Principles in a Global Era
• Finance
• Managing People: Psychological Foundations
• Research Participation II
• International Strategy
• Business Research Methods - Qualitative
• Business Research Methods - Quantitative
• Integrative Research Project

Third Year

In the third year, students will spend the first half of the year abroad, choosing from 126 universities on six continents to broaden their international experience. When they return, they will choose their business discipline specialty and write their Bachelor's thesis. The subjects covered include:

• Exchange
• Electives
• Thesis
• Ethics

Future Prospects

After completing the bachelor's programme, students can specialise by following a master's programme. The IBA programme provides students with a solid foundation for a successful career in international business, and the skills and knowledge gained can be applied in a variety of settings.

Start Date

The start date of this programme is September 1st.