Georgia State University (GSU) in Atlanta stands at the forefront of international business education with its Master of International Business (MIB) program, designed to cultivate versatile global leaders.
The intensive 11-month program housed within the Robinson College of Business emphasizes experiential learning and global perspectives, catering to both seasoned professionals and recent graduates.
Dr. Cuneyt Evirgen, the faculty director of the MIB program, highlights that in an increasingly interconnected world, the skills learned in this program are vital for navigating the complexities of international business.
The curriculum is structured to be completed in three semesters and offers three focused tracks: Global Management Consultancy, Global Supply Chain & Logistics, and International Entrepreneurship & Innovation.
One graduate, Saron Nigussie, embarked on her MIB journey from Ethiopia, driven by her passion for the coffee industry and the desire to acquire essential skills for operating her own import business.
With a finance background, Ms. Nigussie had developed strong analytical skills but sought the specialized insights the MIB program could provide, especially through the Global Supply Chain & Logistics track.
She credits the program with equipping her to understand international trade nuances and cross-cultural business negotiations, crucial for her new venture—Sarco, an Ethiopian coffee import business.
“I deal with a lot of different stakeholders from different countries, and having that international mindset developed through the MIB program has helped me communicate better and to understand where each party comes from,” Ms. Nigussie explains.
The influence of real-world examples from her classes, particularly one discussion with a Turkish entrepreneur on starting a business in the U.S., proved invaluable as she navigated her own business journey.
The MIB program’s structure also accommodates working professionals, offering classes in the evenings twice per week, supplemented by simulcast options for remote attendance.
This flexible scheduling allows students to quickly acquire critical skills needed to thrive in international business.
Another MIB graduate, Yetunde Kanu, came to the program with two decades of experience from a Big Four consulting firm in Nigeria, looking to pivot into entrepreneurship and enhance her global business acumen.
“The MIB offered me the chance to sharpen my skills at a time when I was already tackling international roles and clients,” Ms. Kanu recalls.
The International Entrepreneurship & Innovation track particularly appealed to her, aligning perfectly with her career aspirations.
Since completing the program, she has launched her own consulting firm, focusing on helping startups grow, attributing her readiness to the lessons and confidence gained during her studies.
“The program prepared us to set up businesses as international students in the U.S., which made it easier for me to start my own company,” she states.
The curriculum has undergone further enhancements, with GSU planning to introduce the Global Business Sustainability Certificate in Fall 2025, adding even more value for future students.
Both graduates express appreciation for the practical, experiential learning aspect of the MIB program, which helped translate classroom concepts into real-world business challenges.
“The consulting project, the study abroad programs—those provided insights into the obstacles international companies face,” Ms. Nigussie notes.
In addition to academic rigor, the program immerses students in the U.S. business culture, addressing cultural and ethical expectations, a feature Ms. Kanu found particularly beneficial.
The close ties GSU maintains with the business community also enhance the educational experience, as Dr. Evirgen points out, bringing in guest speakers from multinational firms and offering consulting opportunities.
Both Ms. Nigussie and Ms. Kanu encourage prospective students considering the MIB program.
Ms. Nigussie urges those without work experience to “just go for it,” asserting that the program provides significant growth and valuable skills suitable for any career stage.
Meanwhile, Ms. Kanu emphasizes the program’s suitability for those transitioning into international business, claiming it equips students with the necessary tools and experiences.
Dr. Evirgen recommends prospective students participate in one of the program’s monthly webinars or attend a class to get a sense of the MIB experience firsthand.
“The staff are excellent in providing guidance, making you feel like part of a family, and once you graduate, you’re equipped with a stronger foundation and capabilities,” he adds confidently.
For those interested in exploring the Master of International Business program, further information can be obtained by visiting https://robinson.gsu.edu/mib or contacting the program department at [email protected].
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