School of Business
School of Business
The global economy and the global integration of business practices will be a continuing reality in the future. UFV’s International Business (IB) major helps prepare students to succeed in this global environment by providing opportunities to develop intercultural competency in business settings. The program involves the study of business in a foreign culture through a study abroad semester at one of UFV’s international partner universities. The program is also designed to allow students the flexibility to pursue business topics related to their own areas of interest and specialization within an international context. Graduates of the program will be well-positioned to pursue international business opportunities in the Fraser Valley and beyond.
50%
Based on 2024/25 academic year enrolment, students declaring the IB major have increased by 50%.
Uniqueness of the IB major
Study business in another country, earn UFV credit, and make global experience a guaranteed part of your degree, not just a “maybe someday” trip. With built-in study abroad and language learning, you’ll graduate more confident working across cultures and ready for international roles.
Key skills developed
My study abroad semester at Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester UK was a truly transformative experience that significantly strengthened my observation and analytical skills. Being immersed in a different cultural and business environment allowed me to view businesses from multiple perspectives. I gained a deeper understanding of how cultural norms, legal frameworks, and market regulations shape consumer behaviour and influence strategic decision.
As an international student in Canada at the University of the Fraser Valley, having the opportunity to attend a semester abroad in the UK was a defining highlight of choosing International Business as my major.
The experience also enabled me to connect with individuals from across the globe, broadening my global perspective and enhancing my ability to communicate effectively with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. A particularly valuable aspect of this experience was the opportunity to engage with prominent local and multinational organizations. I gained firsthand exposure to global business operations through interactions with major companies such as Heineken, including a visit to their production facility, as well as Marks & Spencer, one of the UK’s most established retail brands. These experiences provided practical insights into how multinational corporations operate within international markets.
Overall, this semester abroad strengthened my global outlook, practical business understanding, and cultural adaptability, equipping me with the skills and perspective necessary to succeed in an increasingly interconnected business world.
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Students are encouraged to view course offerings to find the school that best fits their program.
My time in South Korea passed by in the blink of an eye, but it left me with incredible memories that I will cherish forever.
Studying for a semester at Korea University in Seoul was a very rewarding and special experience. I got to experience a different campus culture, meet new people from around the world, and learn new things. The difference classroom learning experience gave me valuable insights into my learning process as well. I strongly recommend others to try out different learning styles through studying abroad, as it can truly enrich our lives. It is something entirely different from just travelling to a country!
I was fortunate to study abroad through the university partnership between the University of the Fraser Valley and HSLU – Lucerne School of Business – International. This experience was a true blessing for both my personal and professional growth.
Every day felt like a surreal adventure that never stopped inspiring me, making it the absolute best time of my life.
I am deeply grateful to both universities and to all the incredible people who made this opportunity possible and unforgettable. If you are considering studying abroad, let this be your sign to take the leap — you won’t regret it.
I was fortunate to study abroad at the Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane, Morocco, for the Fall 2025 semester!
Before Morocco, the only times I had ever travelled by airplane to another country were with my family. I always thought I had to find people who were willing to travel with me or that I needed to find a good excuse to make a trip. Over the years, I had developed a personal goal and an itch to go travelling again, and luckily, the UFV study abroad program has scratched that itch!
The UFV study abroad program was beneficial for me because it helped fulfill one of my requirements for my International Business major. Yes, studying abroad is a requirement to complete a major, isn’t that awesome?! I always wanted to have a career that involves travelling, but I was unsure if I would enjoy the travelling aspect. Luckily, studying abroad has been a positive enough experience for me to continue that type of career in the future!
Being an exchange student has been very helpful for me in overcoming any fears, uncertainty, and anxiety that travelling solo brings. The study abroad team at UFV will walk you through any potential concerns you may face so you can avoid them, and they’ll help you go through the process of applying to the host institution. Take it from someone like me, who used to be a novice, who never travelled alone, but now I feel like a seasoned vet!
There are so many highlights from my trip that include places I visited and things I did. If I had to choose one thing, though, it would have to be the time I spent a spontaneous, random weekend in Tangier. Tangier became my favourite city to visit in Morocco because historically it’s known as a multicultural crossroads city, and I got to see that with my own eyes. It’s located in the northernmost part of Morocco, a swim away from Spain, and is situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to travel to Morocco!
I have some words of wisdom for anyone thinking of doing a study abroad semester….don’t hesitate and think of excuses, JUST DO IT! You won’t regret it, trust me.
Co-op programs are a game-changer for international business students, turning classroom theory into real-world global skills.
Hands-on global practice: Apply trade, marketing, and cross-cultural concepts in multinational firms or export roles.
Build cultural agility: Work in diverse teams, boosting adaptability for international careers.
Stand out to employers: Gain paid experience, networks, and resume boosts that lead to full-time jobs.
Career clarity: Test roles like international trade or global logistics to confirm your path.
Ready to go global? Explore co-op opportunities today.
Typical Co-op Jobs
Business development officers and market researchers and analysts conduct research, provide statistical and analytical supports, identify market trends and potential opportunities, formulate policies and manage programs to stimulate industrial and commercial business investment or tourism in urban and rural areas, or to promote commercial or industrial products and services. They are employed by government departments, international organizations, marketing and analytics firms and business associations or may be self-employed.
$93,852
Salary range: $45,883 to $133.478 [NOC 41402]
International business management offers diverse roles like Global Marketing/Sales Manager, Supply Chain Director, International Finance Analyst, Business Development Manager, and Management Consultant, focusing on global strategy, market entry, trade, logistics, and cross-cultural operations for company growth and compliance worldwide.
$105,281
Salary range: $77,000 to $175,023 [NOC 10021]
Graduates without relevant work, Co-op, or international study experience should expect an entry-level pay at the lower end of the spectrum. Check out What to do with a BBA in International Business for more information!