Testimonials
You get to work on real cases which gives you a link between theory/research and practice.
- Programme
- International Business
- Study start date
This specialization gave me a different perspective of the business and economic world. I especially like the consideration of not only learning about developed markets but also developing ones and the focus on global challenges/topics (sustainability, climate change, corruption, etc.) which makes the program even more interesting. Moreover, you get to work on real cases which gives you a link between theory/research and practice. This way you can apply your newly attained knowledge and maybe get an idea of what awaits you in practice. During my undergraduate study I did not really have a link to practice and therefore I needed to get out of my theoretical approach/research based thinking, but I am quite thankful to have this experience. Moreover, I appreciate the presence of other international students, this opens up opportunities to get to know different thoughts and approaches.
In class lecturers encourage students to get involved in discussions and to critically reflect which can end up in hearing different opinions and thoughts one self did not think of. Overall, the atmosphere is pleasant and relaxed.
The biggest challenge is to keep up with studying and working on assignments at the same time, but it is manageable.
My thesis is probably going to be about the (governing) issue of the climate change in global supply chains of MNEs.
As this specialization is all about international business, a firm which wants to internationalize or is operating in several countries needs the know-how about these topics in order to be successful with their activities. Therefore, this degree covers the knowledge needed for these specific aspects. Once I get my Master’s degree, I will probably apply for a job position at an MNE or consultancy related to this field.
The programme includes a more economical view that is very different from my previous education in International Business Communication.
- Previous education
- International Business Communication - Radboud University
- Programme
- International Business
- Study start date
- Study end date
What do you like about the programme/specialisation and why? How has the programme/specialisation challenged you (in relation to your previous education)?
I like the international aspect of the study. The focus is not so much on the Netherlands or even Europe, but it takes on a macro-level view in which you can compare countries or cultures. The programme includes a more economical view that is very different from my previous education in International Business Communication.
What do you think about the atmosphere in class (for example the relationship between students and with the teachers/researchers)?
The atmosphere in the class is fine, but very diverse. The type of class you are in and who is present has a large effect on the interactivity, though this is largely encouraged by the lecturers.
What do you find most challenging in your Master’s (specialisation)? Have you encountered any obstacles?
I had to adjust to the exams at first, as I was used to the multiple-choice type testing in the Bachelor's and the pre-Master's education. The exams of this programme consists practically only of open questions. This requires you to study the subject matter more closely, which is great, but requires adjusting nonetheless.
Are you currently doing an internship? Or what is your thesis about?
I am thinking of writing my thesis on cultural differences in M&A, but I haven't found a great way to incorporate it yet.
Why do you think is it important that there are people out there with this degree? What are your plans once have received your Master's degree?
I think that in a globalised world, knowing how companies from different cultures interact is detrimental to successful collaborations. That's why I think this programme is vital for anyone thinking of working in an international context, which is what I plan to do after my Master's. First, I will finish the second year of the Dual Degree Programme in Glasgow! I'm excited!
Operating at the edge of Business Administration and Economics is challenging but interesting, and it really adds to your academic career.
- Previous education
- International Business Communication - Radboud University
- Programme
- International Business
- Study start date
- Study end date
What do you like about the programme/specialisation and why? How has the programme/specialisation challenged you (in relation to your previous education)?
I like how the courses are integrated within the content of the Master's and build on each other. Operating at the edge of Business Administration and Economics is challenging but interesting, and it really adds to your academic career.
What do you think about the atmosphere in class (for example the relationship between students and with the teachers/researchers)?
As the Master's consists of both Economics students and Business Administration students, as well as several international students, it is truly a mixed classroom. The teachers in the Master's truly treat you like an equal and their enthusiasm about their topics of research is contagious.
What do you find most challenging in your Master’s (specialisation)? Have you encountered any obstacles?
The Economics influences in the Master's make it more challenging. The International Business and Trade course is especially tough for someone lacking the prerequisite knowledge and expertise.
Are you currently doing an internship? Or what is your thesis about?
I am writing my thesis about the effects of national culture on corporate philanthropic efforts of Multinational enterprises. I included the effects that gender diversity in top management has on this relationship.
Why do you think is it important that there are people out there with this degree? What are your plans once have received your Master's degree?
The international perspective that you get on business is something that alumni of International Business can contribute to a firm. I personally hope to use this knowledge in larger firms which operate in several countries to make transitions that come with internationalising easier.