International Business

We live in a global marketplace. In order to survive in this environment, businesses must be able to operate outside their own borders. This program is all about how to do that by importing, exporting, selling to and working with businesses around the world. The dynamics of the global market require fluid thinking, an ability to roll with changes, an understanding of international regulations, and a respect for the traditions and intricacies of other cultures.

You'll develop professional international business skills including marketing plan development, researching, logistics management, as well as many other key skills. You’ll explore what it’s like to do business in countries such as Mexico and China. You'll study more than rules and regulations – learning how social customs differ in other countries. You'll also have the opportunity to gain a working knowledge of Spanish – a language that is increasingly important to Canadian businesses. More than 43 million people in the US, our biggest trading partner, consider Spanish as their first language and with the implementation of NAFTA Canadian trade with Spanish speaking countries has also increased.

Living in a global marketplace means you need to be a global businessperson – this program will help you to do that and become an invaluable asset to any company, whether they're in international trade or not.

• This is an intense program that will have you ready to hit the ground running.


• In the first year of the program you’re introduced to the world of International Business including four courses from the Forum for International Trade Training (FITT), a nationally recognized organization which accredits International Business Training. These courses will make you eligible for a FITT Certificate (additional fees apply for this certification).


• In the second year, you’ll go out in the community, contact businesses that are either engaged in international business or are developing the ability to do so, and meet with senior business leaders to discuss their business plans. It is not theory - it's real life, the real world of business. All along you'll have the full support of our industry-experienced faculty. You will complete the remaining courses (total of 8) required to obtain a FITT diploma which will allow you the opportunity to work towards a Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) designation after graduation (additional fees apply for this certification). You will also earn a selling skills certificate from the Canadian Professional Sales Association (a program bonus that will give you a wider range of career options).


• The final semester of the program consists of a domestic or international internship to give you hands-on experience that will help you successfully transition to the workplace.

• The majority of our graduates have jobs by graduation. Employers appreciate how graduates are ready to go to work with very little ramp-up time and are hired from their internship.


• Potential employers include: international trading companies, businesses buying from and selling to foreign countries, government agencies, consultants, freight forwarders, shipping lines, and customs brokers.


• You may also start your own business or develop an existing business into a global competitor.

Our graduates say the hands-on learning and teamwork skills they gained in this program led to successful employment. One is currently working as an international sales representative for a footwear manufacturer supplying stores in Canada and the US. Another is working in custom brokerage for an international shipping/courier company. The majority have gained employment in their chosen field within a year of graduation.

• Completion of either the first year of NSCC's Business Administration program or one-year of business administration or commerce at a post-secondary level.


• High School Graduation Diploma or equivalent, plus business experience in economics, marketing, and accounting.

• You’ll have the opportunity to complete 2 business electives chosen from Small Business Management, World Geography, or another second-level or higher or business-related course with permission from faculty. You’ll also take one open elective that is consistent with the goals outlined in your portfolio. The recommended open elective is Contemporary Business Ethics (MGMT 3020) but can come from other subject areas with the permission of faculty.

• This program prepares you for a career that specializes in international trade. You’ll develop an understanding of the cultural differences that can affect trade relationships.


• To graduate, you’re required to have a basic working knowledge in a second language. This can be achieved either by completing three levels of Spanish at NSCC, SPAN 1000, 2000, 3000, or through an assessment of your proficiency in another language. You’re encouraged to develop your second language skills prior to beginning the program.


• Online options – Selected courses are available online.


• Co-operative Education (Co-op) – This program is eligible for an optional Co-op credit course. Co-op provides an opportunity for paid employment between the first and second year of your program. Employers, as co-educators, provide learning opportunities beyond the bounds of the classroom giving you a well-rounded education enriched by practical application.