About the Program
The Master of Science in International Trade at Swiss International University (SIU) is an advanced postgraduate study program designed for professionals, managers, entrepreneurs, trade specialists, and future global business leaders who want to develop strong knowledge in international commerce, import and export operations, global markets, trade finance, logistics, regulations, and applied business 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, giving the program an international academic and professional dimension.
Program Title: Master of Science 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 Commerce
International Business Strategy
Import, Export, and Cross-Border Operations
Trade Finance and International Payment Systems
Global Supply Chain and Logistics Management
International Trade Law and Compliance
Customs Procedures and Trade Regulations
Digital Trade and E-Commerce in Global Markets
Research Methods for International Trade
Second Year: Thesis
Master Thesis in International Trade
Thesis Defense
The thesis allows students to apply international trade theories, research methods, and strategic thinking to a real or research-based global trade topic. The defense may be completed on campus in Zurich, Dubai, or Bishkek.
Learning Themes
The program focuses on key themes in modern international trade, including:
Global trade systems, import and export management, international market access, trade finance, customs and compliance, logistics, global supply chains, digital commerce, international negotiation, risk management, sustainability in trade, and applied research.
Students are expected to develop the ability to understand global trade flows, analyze international market opportunities, manage cross-border operations, and support strategic decision-making in international business environments.
Typical Class Profile
Class size: Up to 25 students
Female participants: 65%
Average age: 36 years
Nationalities represented: 18
Average professional experience: 12 years
Benefits of the Program
The Master of Science in International Trade is designed for learners who want to understand how goods, services, capital, and business relationships move across borders. It supports professionals who work with international markets, trade operations, logistics, finance, compliance, and global business development.
Key benefits include:
Flexible blended learning, 100% English instruction, international thesis defense options, practical international trade modules, strong focus on global business and cross-border operations, 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.
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 trade and global business skills.
Applicants should have a good command of English and an interest in international trade, global markets, logistics, finance, regulations, digital commerce, and applied research.