About the Program
The Master of Business Administration in International Trade at Swiss International University (SIU) is an advanced postgraduate study program designed for professionals, managers, entrepreneurs, trade specialists, and future business leaders who want to develop strong knowledge in global commerce, international markets, trade finance, supply chains, business strategy, and applied management research. This program is delivered across SIU Zurich, SIU Dubai, and SIU Bishkek.
Program Overview
The program is delivered 100% in English through a blended study method, combining flexible online learning with selected academic activities and optional on-campus engagement. Students may complete their thesis defense on campus in Zurich, Dubai, or Bishkek, offering an international academic experience across SIU’s global locations.
Program Title: Master of Business Administration in International Trade
Study Level: Equal to ISCED / EQF Level 7*
European Cycle: Equal to the 2nd European cycle
Duration: 18 Months
Study Method: Blended
Language of Study: 100% English
ECTS: Equal to 90 ECTS
Tuition Fee: CHF 49,000
Thesis Defense: Zurich, Dubai, or Bishkek campus
*ISCED means the International Standard Classification of Education, a global framework used to compare education levels internationally. EQF means the European Qualifications Framework, which helps compare qualifications across European education systems. Level 7 usually refers to master’s-level studies.
This program starts once per year, on the first Monday of October. The first intake began in October 2013.
Program Content
First Year: 9 Modules
International Trade and Global Business Environment
Strategic Management in International Markets
International Marketing and Market Entry Strategies
Trade Finance and International Payment Systems
Global Supply Chain and Logistics Management
International Business Law and Trade Regulations
Customs, Import, Export, and Compliance Management
Digital Transformation in Global Trade
Research Methods for International Business
Second Year: Thesis
MBA Thesis in International Trade
Thesis Defense
The thesis allows students to apply international trade knowledge, business strategy, and research methods to a real or research-based global business topic. The defense may be completed on campus in Zurich, Dubai, or Bishkek.
Learning Themes
The program focuses on important themes in modern international trade, including:
Global trade systems, import and export management, international market entry, trade finance, customs procedures, business law, cross-border logistics, global supply chains, digital trade, international negotiation, risk management, sustainability in trade, and applied business research.
Students are expected to develop the ability to understand international markets, manage trade operations, evaluate global business risks, and support strategic decisions in cross-border business environments.
Typical Class Profile
Class size: Up to 25 students
Female participants: 62%
Average age: 38 years
Nationalities represented: 19
Average professional experience: 14 years
Benefits of the Program
The Master of Business Administration in International Trade is designed for learners who want to combine advanced business administration knowledge with practical international trade skills. It supports professionals who work with global markets, import and export operations, trade regulations, logistics, and international business development.
Key benefits include:
Flexible blended learning, 100% English instruction, international thesis defense options, practical international trade modules, strong focus on global business strategy, development of research and decision-making skills, and a diverse classroom with experienced professionals from different countries and industries.
Who Can Apply?
This program is suitable for applicants who hold a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification and wish to continue to master’s-level studies in international trade and business administration.
It is especially suitable for:
Business graduates, trade professionals, import and export managers, logistics and supply chain professionals, entrepreneurs, consultants, sales and marketing managers, finance professionals, customs and compliance officers, and applicants from related fields who want to develop advanced international business and trade skills.
Applicants should have a good command of English and an interest in international trade, global markets, business strategy, logistics, finance, regulations, and applied research.