Advance your international career

Take your international business career further, or change your career direction towards this fast-moving, creative field.

You’ll learn how international markets work, how organisations expand across borders, and how cultural, political, and economic forces shape global strategy. You’ll strengthen the skills that employers look for: analytical thinking, communication, teamwork, and the ability to adapt in a fast-changing world.

Our flexible study options mean you can continue working while you study. You’ll graduate with industry recognition, deeper expertise, and practical, globally relevant experience.

Choose your study path

The Wellington School of Business and Government has postgraduate International Business qualifications to suit your circumstances and goals. They’re designed for you if you’re:

  • a recent graduate who wants to deepen their knowledge and enter the workforce with a strong, internationally focused business degree
  • already working and want to shift or advance your career.

You’ll gain an advanced understanding of global business environments, cross‑cultural strategy, trade, exports, and international management. You’ll learn negotiation and problem-solving skills, and learn how to work effectively in multicultural teams.

Change focus to study International Business

Specialise in International Business theory and practice with our graduate-level study options. These qualifications are designed to help you change careers or boost your skills to stand out in the global marketplace.

  • Graduate Certificate in Commerce—60-point, one-trimester GCertCom introduces you to International Business.
  • Graduate Diploma in Commerce—120-point, two-trimester GDipCom covers more ground than the Graduate Certificate, and is a good way to prepare for postgraduate study in International Business.

Study International Business at postgraduate level

Bachelor of Commerce with Honours

Add an Honours year to your undergraduate degree. It’s a one year (full time) degree. You’ll deepen your understanding of international business strategy, management, internationalisation practices and issues, and research methods.

This is a good step if you’re considering a career in policy, research, or academia. To get the most from the degree, you should be academically strong and enjoy independent research.

Postgraduate Certificate in Commerce

A short, focused qualification that adds depth to your International Business knowledge without committing you to a full year of study. It’s good if you need flexibility and is a good pathway into the Postgraduate Diploma or Master’s programmes.

Postgraduate Diploma in Commerce

Gain advanced knowledge in International Business with this flexible, 120-point qualification.

This is a good option if you want advanced, career-focused coursework without a research component. It’s also good if you’re considering a Master of Commerce (MCom) in future—your PGDipCom courses can count towards it.

Do postgraduate research in International Business

Master of Commerce

Gain an in-depth understanding of contemporary issues, practices and strategies in International Business and society. It’s a 180-point, full time or part-time degree with both coursework and research components.

This qualification is ‘staircased’ with the BCom(Hons), meaning that you can credit courses you take in the BCom(Hons) to your MCom in some cases.

Master of Global Business

This full- or part-time Master’s degree is a good option for recent graduates who want to start a career in global business and strategy. You’ll get a global perspective on business theory, practice, and strategy, and develop practical skills you can apply in the workplace.

Doctor of Philosophy

Undertake advanced research in International Business and make an original contribution to the field with a PhD.

If you want to study international trade

If you already have a Bachelor's degree and want to pursue a career in international trade, consider the Master of International Trade. This multidisciplinary programme develops your expertise in trade law and the economic, political, and social dimensions of international trade.

Qualification support and advice

We can help you match your interests and career goals with the right course of study.

If you’re a new student, talk to a Future Student Adviser through our enquiry form.

If you’re already studying with us, talk to Tītoko—Student Success.

For the research portion of your study, you’ll need a supervisor to help guide your research. Your programme coordinator will work with you to find the right person.

Two students with laptops are being helped by a third person

Study options

Find out how you can study Postgraduate International Business at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.

Tohu Tiwhikete Paerunga, Tauhokohoko

Graduate Certificate in Commerce—GCertCom

POSTGRADUATEGRADUATE CERTIFICATE
Learn about new commerce subjects and gain new skills. Prepare for postgraduate study or enhance your career prospects.
Duration
0.5 Year
Location
Kelburn and Pipitea campuses, Wellington
Level of study
Postgraduate
Points
60
Workload
Full or part-time
Type
Coursework · Daytime
2026 – Trimester 3
Apply by
12 Nov 2026
Start study
16 Nov 2026
2027 – Trimester 1
Apply by
14 Feb 2027
Start study
22 Feb 2027
2027 – Trimester 2
Apply by
15 Jun 2027
Start study
5 Jul 2027
2027 – Trimester 3
Apply by
10 Oct 2027
Start study
15 Nov 2027
Tohu Tauhokohoko

Graduate Diploma in Commerce—GDipCom

POSTGRADUATEGRADUATE DIPLOMA
Learn about new commerce subjects and gain new skills. Prepare for postgraduate study or enhance your career prospects.
Duration
1 Year
Location
Kelburn and Pipitea campuses, Wellington
Level of study
Postgraduate
Points
120
Workload
Full or part-time
Type
Coursework · Daytime
2026 – Trimester 3
Apply by
12 Nov 2026
Start study
16 Nov 2026
2027 – Trimester 1
Apply by
14 Feb 2027
Start study
22 Feb 2027
2027 – Trimester 2
Apply by
15 Jun 2027
Start study
5 Jul 2027
2027 – Trimester 3
Apply by
10 Oct 2027
Start study
15 Nov 2027
Tohu Tiwhikete Paerunga, Tauhokohoko

Postgraduate Certificate in Commerce—PGCertCom

POSTGRADUATEPOSTGRADUATE CERTIFICATE
Boost your career by filling gaps in your business knowledge or upskilling in a particular subject area.
Duration
1 year
Location
Kelburn and Pipitea campuses, Wellington
Level of study
Postgraduate
Points
60
Workload
Full or part-time
Type
Coursework · Daytime
2027 – Trimester 1
Apply by
14 Feb 2027
Start study
22 Feb 2027
2027 – Trimester 2
Apply by
15 Jun 2027
Start study
5 Jul 2027
Tohu Paerunga Tauhokohoko

Postgraduate Diploma in Commerce—PGDipCom

POSTGRADUATEPOSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA
Get ahead in your career and build your expertise by gaining advanced knowledge in a specialised area of business.
Duration
1 year
Location
Pipitea campus, Wellington
Level of study
Postgraduate
Points
120
Workload
Full or part-time
Type
Coursework · Daytime
2027 – Trimester 1
Apply by
14 Feb 2027
Start study
22 Feb 2027
2027 – Trimester 2
Apply by
15 Jun 2027
Start study
5 Jul 2027
Tohu Paetahi Hōnore, Tauhokohoko

Bachelor of Commerce with Honours—BCom(Hons)

POSTGRADUATEBACHELOR’S DEGREE WITH HONOURS
Enhance your Bachelor of Commerce degree with advanced study and research into the challenges shaping business and society today.
Duration
1 year
Location
Pipitea campus, Wellington
Level of study
Postgraduate
Points
120
Workload
Full or part-time
Type
Coursework · Daytime
2027 – Trimester 1
Apply by
14 Feb 2027
Start study
22 Feb 2027
2027 – Trimester 2
Apply by
15 Jun 2027
Start study
5 Jul 2027
Paerua Tohu Tauhokohoko

Master of Commerce—MCom

POSTGRADUATEMASTER'S DEGREE
Further your understanding of contemporary issues in business and society, and learn advanced research skills.
Duration
2 years
Location
Pipitea campus, Wellington
Level of study
Postgraduate
Points
180
Workload
Full or part-time
Type
Coursework and research · Daytime
2027 – Trimester 1
Apply by
14 Feb 2027
Start study
22 Feb 2027
2027 – Trimester 2
Apply by
15 Jun 2027
Start study
5 Jul 2027
Tohu Paerua Pakihi Ao Whānui

Master of Global Business—MGBus

POSTGRADUATEMASTER'S DEGREE
Prepare for an international business career with new perspectives on modern business theory and practice. Explore global markets, strategy, and leadership.
Duration
1 year
Location
Pipitea campus, Wellington
Level of study
Postgraduate
Points
180
Workload
Full or part-time
Type
Coursework and project work · Daytime
2026 – Trimester 3
Apply by
12 Nov 2026
Start study
16 Nov 2026
2027 – Trimester 3
Apply by
10 Oct 2027
Start study
15 Nov 2027
Tohu Kairangi

Doctor of Philosophy—PhD

POSTGRADUATEDOCTORATE
Study for a PhD to complete advanced research and make an original contribution to your field.
Duration
3 years
Location
Kelburn, Pipitea, Te Aro, and Miramar Creative Centre campuses, Wellington
Level of study
Postgraduate
Points
360
Workload
Full or part-time
Type
Research
2027 – Trimester 1
Apply by
14 Feb 2027
Start study
22 Feb 2027
2027 – Trimester 2
Apply by
15 Jun 2027
Start study
5 Jul 2027
2027 – Trimester 3
Apply by
10 Oct 2027
Start study
15 Nov 2027

Why Wellington

Many multinational corporations base themselves in Wellington, New Zealand’s capital. It’s also the base for government agencies involved in New Zealand’s international business and trade. You’ll study where decisions are made that shape New Zealand’s global business.

Wellington's international connections, particularly in the Asia-Pacific, put you in touch with decision-makers who shape New Zealand's global relationships. You’ll gain insights into international trade dynamics, and absorb diverse perspectives that will enrich your international business career.

International recognition

Wellington School of Business and Government is among the top 1% of business schools worldwide that hold the ‘Triple Crown’ of international business education accreditations. By studying here, you can be confident your qualification will be recognised globally for its quality.

Commerce accreditations

Future careers

Our postgraduate International Business qualifications give you a global mindset, the confidence to work across borders, and credibility with employers.

Graduates find work in a range of industries and organisations, like:

  • private-sector companies involved in exporting, importing, global supply chains, or multinational operations
  • consulting firms advising clients on internationalisation or entering overseas markets
  • government agencies involved in trade, economic development, or international policy
  • non-profits and NGOs that manage global partnerships and development projects.

If you’re an international student, your postgraduate degree signals that you understand international business and have the skills to succeed in global markets.

More career information

Find out more about careers.

The government careers website, Tahatū, offers more information about jobs, salaries, and current opportunities.

Scholarships

You may be able to get a scholarship to help fund your studies.

We have postgraduate and doctoral scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.

We encourage you to apply. It's a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.

Scholarships for Business and Government

  • Worth: $20,000 stipend only Closing: 1 November, 2026

    Applicants must be enrolled, or intending to enrol full time, in a Master’s or PhD degree in areas related to identity management and are New Zealand citizens or permanent residents.

  • Worth: $10,000 Closing: 1 November, 2026

    This scholarship is for students undertaking or intending to undertake an Honours or Masters degree at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington in areas related to Peace Building or Peace Studies, Trust Building, Conflict Resolution, addressing Historical Injustice, Restorative Justice, Social Cohesion, Community building and promoting cross-cultural understanding, Change Making or Ethical Leadership.

  • Worth: Approximately $5,000 NZD Closing: 1 November, 2026

    This scholarship is open to Pasifika students intending to enrol in a Postgraduate Certificate, Diploma or Master’s degree in Business at the Wellington School of Business and Government. Applicants are expected to have met the admissions requirements for the qualification of interest. Applicants will be assessed on merit however preference may be given to applicants experiencing financial hardship.

Scholarships for international students

We are currently offering a NZ$10,000 VUW Postgraduate International Scholarship to all eligible international students enrolling in a Master’s degree or Postgraduate Diploma programme.

Your scholarship will be processed automatically when your programme application is accepted, and the amount will be deducted from your tuition fees.

Other scholarships

We also have postgraduate and doctoral scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.

We encourage you to apply. It's a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.

Scholarships for Business and Government

Join our postgraduate community

The Postgraduate Students’ Association provides a voice for you on campus and information on studying at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.

Postgraduate Students’ Association

MAI ki Pōneke

MAI ki Pōneke are part of an international network of Māori and Indigenous postgraduate students. They provide advice, support, and information to Indigenous postgraduate students of all levels, as well as those thinking about enrolling.

Find out more about MAI ki Pōneke

Academic staff research areas

Richa Chugh

Senior Lecturer

Siah Hwee Ang

Chair of Business in Asia

Hongzhi Gao

Associate Professor

Revti Raman

Head of School

Get help to manage your finances

We can help you:

  • budget your money
  • manage your student loan or allowance
  • work out your accommodation payment schedule.

If you’re facing financial difficulties, we can help you apply for the Hardship Fund.

You may be eligible for government or community support, too.

Two smiling people facing each other across a table

Apply for a New Zealand study visa

You’ll need to apply for a study visa if you plan to study with us as an international student.

You should apply for your visa after you’ve received your Offer of Place, and before you come to New Zealand.

Discover your career pathway with Tahatū