Master's Thesis International Business (B-KUL-D0O33A)
Aims
The Masters thesis of International Business integrates theoretical insights from the various courses of the program and applies these insights to problems in international business. The Masters thesis aims to develop the ability to independently analyze complex problems in international business by drawing on this theoretical framework and by choosing and applying the relevant analytical tools grounded in scientific research. The aim is to develop the ability to define and implement research projects and to provide an active contribution to knowledge development processes in international business and organizational contexts; and to develop skills in formulating, modelling and solving economic and managerial problems as well as reporting results, drawing conclusion(s) and formulating recommendations.
Previous knowledge
Academic Bachelor in economics or business. Students should dispose of a knowledge of international business, have a critical attitude towards scientific developments within the domain of international business, possess a basic knowledge of the conduct of independent research, and possess bascic skills in information processing and reporting.
Content
Students write an individual research paper on a subject that falls within the scope of one of the courses in International Business Major of the MBE program. Papers are analytical, containing a theoretical and empirical section. They examine an empirical issue (e.g. a business case, developments in a global industry environment) conducting original research by applying relevant economic and management theories. The Masters thesis starts with a number of plenary sessions aiming to provide or improve skills in academic writing, literature and data search, case analysis methods, and econometric methods. For further information, students should consult the Rules for the Research Paper posted in the MBE Toledo environment
Course material
Articles and literature
Slides, transparencies, courseware
Manual
Examples and samples
Toledo / e-platform
Is also included in other courses
- Master in de toegepaste economische wetenschappen (Major: International Business) 60 ects.

- Master of Business Economics (Major 2: International Business) 60 ects.

Activities
Evaluation
Evaluation: Master's Thesis International Business (B-KUL-D2O33a)
Explanation
The thesis is defended orally in presentation sessions in which the student expounds the most important findings of the Masters thesis, and membesr of the evaluation committee (consisting at least of the promotor, the assistant and a second faculty member or business fellow) ask questions. The quality of het presentation and th extent to which students provide accurate answers to these questions is an important element in the evaluation. The evaluation is based on the following components: 80% on the thesis text; 20% on the oral defence.
