Between International Business and International Relations: Which choice is for you?
When entering university, many students are confused between choosing International Business or International Relations. Both industries are highly global, opening up many attractive career opportunities. However, the differences in study orientation and career opportunities will help you make the decision that best suits you.

1. Introduction to International Business and International Relations
1.1 What is International Business?
International Business is the field that studies commercial, investment, management and marketing activities on a global scale. This major helps students understand how the global economy operates, how businesses expand their markets internationally, and how to manage business operations in a multicultural environment.
1.2 What is International Relations?
International Relations focuses on research on politics, diplomacy, international law and cooperation between countries. This is the industry for those who love politics, like to learn about global issues and want to work in international, governmental or non-governmental organizations.
2. The difference between International Business and International Relations
2.1 Benefits of each industry
- International Business: Helps students develop management skills, business thinking and the ability to expand markets globally. This industry is suitable for those who love dynamism, have strategic thinking and want to work in a corporate environment.
- International Relations major: Equipped with knowledge about politics, diplomacy and international relations. This major is for those who love researching, negotiating and working with government or non-governmental organizations.
2.2 Which industry is easier to get a job in?
- International Business: Easier to apply for a job because the demand for human resources in the fields of trade, import-export, and business administration is increasing. Most multinational corporations, logistics companies, and banks need personnel with knowledge of International Business.
- International Relations Industry: Job opportunities often focus on government organizations, embassies, NGOs or research agencies. However, positions in this industry often require more experience and expertise, so it can be more difficult to get a job than in International Business.
2.3 Average salary
- International Business: Starting salary usually ranges from 10 – 20 million VND/month depending on position and company. For management or expert positions, the salary can be up to 50 million VND/month or higher.
- International Relations: Starting salary is usually from 8 – 15 million VND/month. Senior positions such as political analysts, diplomats or consultants can receive salaries of over 50 million VND/month, but require many years of experience.
2.4 Which industry suits your personality?
- International Business: Suitable for people with strategic thinking, who like to communicate, are flexible, like business and can withstand high work pressure.
- International Relations major: For those who like research, love politics, have sharp analytical ability, patience and are passionate about working in the field of diplomacy.
3. Which major should I choose?
Choosing between International Business and International Relations depends on each person’s interests, career orientation and personal qualities. Here are some suggestions to help you make your decision:
- If you love the corporate environment, business, marketing, import-export and want to work in multinational corporations, International Business will be the right choice.
- If you are interested in politics, diplomacy, international organizations and global issues, International Relations will be a good path to develop your career.
- If you want to have open job opportunities, easily apply for a job right after graduation and have a stable income, International Business is a more advantageous choice.
- If you wish to contribute to the field of policy, develop international relations and work with non-governmental organizations, the International Relations major will help you realize your dream.
4. Study International Business at Hoa Sen – De Montfort Joint Programme
If you are looking for an international standard training program, International Business at Hoa Sen – De Montfort programme is an option worth considering. This is a joint program between Hoa Sen University and De Montfort University (UK), bringing many advantages:
- Curriculum meeting international standards: Training content follows De Montfort University standards, helping students access the most up-to-date knowledge and skills in the International Business industry.
- International internship and work opportunities: Students have the opportunity to intern at large businesses and can participate in student exchange programs in the UK.
- Developing soft skills and foreign languages: Studying in an international environment helps students improve their English skills, strategic thinking and global management skills in the International Business industry.
- International degree: After graduation, students will receive a degree issued by De Montfort University, helping to increase their competitive advantage in the international labor market, especially in the field of International Business.
See more:
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CONSULTATION CONTACT: De Montfort University – HSU Vietnam (Institute of International Education)
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Email: demontfort@hoasen.edu.vn
Website: www.hoasen.edu.vn/demontfort/
