International Business (Bachelor)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Saxion University of Applied Sciences

Program Overview

International Business Bachelor at Saxion

The International Business programme prepares you for a managerial position in an international business environment by combining rigorous business theory with authentic real-world projects from day one. You'll study alongside peers from over 35 nationalities, developing the skills to connect people and disciplines while creating sustainable business solutions.

Curriculum Structure

Year One: Building Your Foundation

Your first year establishes a solid theoretical and practical base across all four essential business domains. You'll gain knowledge in Marketing & Sales, Financial Accounting, Cultures, Operations & Supply Chain Management, and People & Organisation, with the approach grounded in real company assignments that form the heart of your education. Rather than sitting in lectures, you'll work in groups each quarter on different business challenges, taking on roles like junior marketeer or supply chain officer, while simultaneously developing your professional skills.

Year Two: Specialization Begins

In your second year, you'll deepen your expertise in your chosen focus areas and gain an international perspective on business challenges. You'll select from electives including "Cultures and communication when doing business with Asia," "The sustainable and lean start-up," "E-commerce, branding and positioning," or "Leadership and change management," allowing you to tailor your studies to your career interests. This year bridges your foundational knowledge with more specialized professional applications.

Year Three: Advanced Theory and International Practice

Your third year moves you toward advanced leadership and change management modules, equipping you with essential skills to lead effectively in dynamic organizational environments. You'll gain practical experience through an internship in an international business environment, applying theoretical knowledge to real organizational challenges and understanding how different business disciplines interconnect.

Year Four: Global Experience and Capstone

Your final year culminates in either a minor or study abroad opportunity at one of Saxion's 85 partner universities worldwide, ensuring at least six months of international experience. You'll conclude your degree with an individual final assignment at an internationally oriented organization, synthesizing everything you've learned into a meaningful contribution to a real business challenge.

Focus areas: Marketing & Sales, Finance & Accounting, Operations & Supply Chain Management, People & Organisation, Leadership and Change Management, plus electives in international business strategy, sustainable business, and specialized domains.

Learning outcomes: Thorough theoretical knowledge and practical experience across all four business domains; expertise in connecting and balancing different interests and roles within companies; advanced leadership capabilities; intercultural communication skills; and the ability to create sustainable business solutions.

Professional alignment: Graduates earn a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, recognized internationally and suited for careers in multinationals, financial institutions, logistic companies, consultancy firms, and NGOs.

Employability: The combination of your 4-year English-language degree in a multicultural environment, proficiency in all relevant business disciplines, plus at least six months abroad makes you an appealing candidate for various international employers.

Study format: 4 years fulltime | English-taught | Deventer and Enschede campuses | Start: September

https://www.saxion.nl/opleidingen/en/fulltime/bachelor/international-business

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Why International Business at Saxion Prepares You for Real-World Success

The International Business programme at Saxion stands out because learning happens in genuine business contexts, not just classrooms. You'll work on real assignments for actual clients, collaborate with fellow students from diverse international backgrounds, and develop the practical skills that employers actually want. The programme balances theory with hands-on experience, giving you a portfolio of real work to showcase when you graduate.

To support your learning journey, Saxion provides the digital tools and infrastructure you need:

- MySaxion.nl portal — your central hub for accessing timetables, grades, announcements, exam information, and connecting with lecturers and fellow students
- Brightspace — the online learning environment where you'll complete assignments, take tests, and collaborate on projects
- Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) programme — use your own laptop (Windows 11 or Mac OS 15+, with camera and microphone) intensively during lessons and assessments, giving you flexibility and familiarity with your own equipment
- Small-scale learning environment — personal guidance and consistent student coaching throughout your studies to support your academic and professional development
- International classroom — study alongside peers from around the world, building genuine intercultural competencies that are invaluable in global business
- Real-client projects — work on assignments and events for actual organisations, translating classroom concepts into tangible business outcomes
- Study trips and excursions — expand your perspective beyond the classroom through field-based learning experiences
- Student coaching groups — work in small, consistent cohorts with the same coach for four years, fostering both personal growth and professional development

The International Business programme equips you with the tools, community, and real-world experience to confidently step into your career.

For more information about Saxion's facilities and support services, visit the student resources section on MySaxion.nl.

Progression & Future Opportunities

International Business at Saxion: Where Theory Meets Real-World Practice

The Bachelor's International Business programme at Saxion stands out because learning happens both inside and outside the classroom. You're not just memorizing concepts—you're applying them immediately through assignments with real clients, collaborative projects, and hands-on experiences that mirror what you'll face in your career. The university provides a comprehensive digital ecosystem and physical resources designed specifically to support your professional development throughout your four years of study.

Here's what you'll actually work with:

- MySaxion.nl platform: Your central hub for timetables, exam information, grades, course announcements, and easy access to lecturers and fellow students
- Online learning environment: You'll take tests and complete assignments through Brightspace, integrated into your daily coursework
- Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) programme: You'll need a laptop (Windows 11 or Mac OS 15 or newer with camera and microphone) that you'll use intensively during lessons, assignments, and online assessments
- Small-scale learning environment with personal guidance: Your study coach works with you throughout all four years in consistent home groups, focusing on both your professional and personal development
- Real-client project work: You'll take on actual assignments and execute projects for real hospitality and business organisations through Saxion's extensive professional network
- Interdisciplinary collaboration: In your third year, you can participate in Smart Solutions Semesters or Business Games alongside students from other academies, giving you exposure to diverse perspectives
- International study trips and excursions: The programme emphasises crossing borders with built-in opportunities for field experiences
- Internship opportunities: You'll gain practical insight into business operations through structured internship placements
- Research and data analysis tools: You'll develop skills using technology and quantitative research methods across various business disciplines

This combination of digital tools, structured mentorship, and real-world engagement means you're building a portfolio of actual work experience alongside your degree—exactly what employers are looking for when you graduate.