International Business vs International Economics?

College Majors Business Major
1

I am struggling to decide between majoring in international business or international economics. The main difference is that for a major in international business, the focus is specifically on business and I would be enrolled in a business school. For international economics, my major would be international affairs and economics would only be a concentration. Would the international economics track be looked unfavorable upon by employers in the future because it is not an actual business degree? Or would it be more beneficial and safer to major in international business?

2

International economics will be a lot more theoretical than IB, for starters. What kind of job are you hoping to get? IB sounds very different from International affairs.

3

Is one curriculum more interesting to you than the other? If so, take that path.

4

Forget the international part for a minute, and compare the required business courses with the econ courses.

I personally like business better, as there is lots of flexibly to change your major within the business school. You may find you like finance, marketing or accounting after taking your intro courses.

I think the other question is just how “international” are these programs and what are the outcomes for current graduating students. International business certainly has a sexy ring to it, but you need to make sure that’s the best way to achieve your goals.

5

Well if it’s international affairs with a concentration in econ the core courses won’t be economics, but rather a mix of econ, poly sci, govt imo

6

@philbegas I am interested in a job in international affairs (FSO in State Department or something similar) but my parents would like me to major in something more practical for undergrad and then I can do international affairs for masters.

7

@happy1 International economics is definitely much more interesting to me but international business is more practical and I would feel more confident in choosing.

8

Economics with a strong mathematics base is incredibly strong in the recruiting process and critical thinking applications.