

PGDM in International Business at Som-Lalit Institute of Management Studies (SLIMS)


Ahmedabad, Gujarat
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About the Specialization
What is International Business at Som-Lalit Institute of Management Studies (SLIMS) Ahmedabad?
This International Business (IB) program at Som-Lalit Institute of Management Studies focuses on equipping future leaders with a comprehensive understanding of global markets and cross-border operations. The curriculum delves into international trade, finance, marketing, and logistics, crucial for navigating India''''s increasingly globalized economy. This program aims to develop professionals capable of addressing the complexities and opportunities in the international business landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates seeking entry into global trade, export-import, or international finance roles. It also suits working professionals aiming to upskill for international assignments or career changers transitioning into multinational corporations. Individuals with a strong analytical bent, cultural sensitivity, and an interest in global economic dynamics will find this specialization particularly rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue dynamic career paths such as International Marketing Manager, Export-Import Executive, Forex Analyst, or Global Supply Chain Manager within Indian and multinational companies. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 LPA, with significant growth potential up to INR 15-25 LPA for experienced professionals. The program also prepares for certifications in EXIM or international trade compliance.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Management Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on mastering core management principles, economics, accounting, and marketing concepts. Actively participate in case studies and group discussions to apply theoretical knowledge to practical business scenarios. Regularly review notes and seek clarification on complex topics.
Tools & Resources
Harvard Business Review case studies, Management study guides, Peer study groups, Faculty office hours
Career Connection
A solid foundation in core management disciplines is essential for understanding the broader business context of international operations and excelling in early career roles.
Enhance Quantitative & Communication Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to improving quantitative techniques and data analysis skills using tools like MS Excel. Simultaneously, work on business communication, presentation, and written articulation, as these are critical for global interactions. Participate in debates and public speaking.
Tools & Resources
Excel tutorials, Coursera/edX courses on data analysis, Toastmasters International, Business communication workshops
Career Connection
Strong analytical and communication abilities are non-negotiable for effective decision-making and cross-cultural collaboration in international business.
Engage in IT and Analytics Workshops- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in the IT Workshop and Business Analytics Workshop to gain hands-on experience with essential software and analytical tools. Understand how technology aids business operations and data-driven decision-making in a global context.
Tools & Resources
MS Office Suite, Basic analytical software, Online tutorials for specific tools
Career Connection
Proficiency in IT and business analytics is increasingly vital for roles in international trade, supply chain, and market analysis, enhancing employability.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into International Business Concepts- (Semester 3)
Focus intensively on specialization subjects like International Business Environment, Export-Import Management, and International Marketing. Seek out real-world examples and case studies related to Indian companies engaging in global trade. Attend guest lectures by industry veterans.
Tools & Resources
Journal of International Business Studies, WTO publications, Trade Promotion Councils in India, Industry reports
Career Connection
In-depth knowledge of these subjects directly prepares for specialist roles in international trade, logistics, and global marketing.
Undertake an Impactful Summer Internship Project (SIP)- (Semester 3 (during summer break after Semester 2))
Secure a summer internship with a company involved in international trade, logistics, or finance. Focus on projects that offer practical exposure to export-import documentation, international market research, or forex operations. Network with professionals during the internship.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn for networking, Company databases, Internship coordinators
Career Connection
SIPs provide invaluable practical experience, enhance resumes, and often lead to pre-placement offers or strong industry references, crucial for securing desired roles.
Develop Global Awareness & Cultural Intelligence- (Semester 3)
Actively follow international news, economic trends, and geopolitical developments. Read books or articles on cross-cultural management and engage with diverse student groups. Understanding global dynamics is crucial for success in IB.
Tools & Resources
The Economist, Financial Times, Foreign Affairs, Cultural intelligence assessments, Participation in international student exchange programs (if available)
Career Connection
High cultural intelligence and global awareness are critical competencies for navigating international assignments and managing diverse teams effectively.
Advanced Stage
Master International Finance & Logistics- (Semester 4)
Focus on mastering subjects like International Financial Management and International Logistics & SCM. Seek out practical simulations or workshops on forex trading, hedging strategies, or global supply chain optimization.
Tools & Resources
Financial news portals, RBI reports on FOREX, Supply Chain Management Review, Industry-specific simulation tools
Career Connection
Expertise in international finance and logistics opens doors to roles in banking, treasury, trade finance, and global supply chain management.
Execute a Comprehensive Dissertation/Project Work- (Semester 4)
Choose a dissertation topic directly related to your career aspirations in international business. Conduct thorough research, analyze data, and present your findings effectively. This project demonstrates independent research capability and specialized knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases (JSTOR, Scopus), Statistical software (SPSS, R), Mentorship from faculty, Writing workshops
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation is a strong portfolio piece that showcases expertise to potential employers and deepens understanding of a specific IB domain.
Focus on Placement Preparation & Networking- (Semester 4)
Actively participate in placement cell activities, mock interviews, and resume building workshops. Network extensively with alumni and industry professionals through conferences, seminars, and informational interviews to explore career opportunities and gain insights.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell resources, LinkedIn, Alumni network, Professional conferences (e.g., CII, FICCI events)
Career Connection
Strategic networking and thorough placement preparation significantly increase the chances of securing desirable roles in top-tier companies in the international business domain.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Minimum 50% Marks in Graduation from UGC recognized University (45% for SC / ST / SEBC Category) and appeared for any one of the following Management entrance examinations: CAT / MAT / CMAT / XAT / ATMA / GMAT / KMAT / MH-CET / SNAP / NMAT
Duration: 2 years (4 Semesters)
Credits: 93 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 101 | Management Principles and Practices | Core | 3 | Introduction to Management, Planning, Organizing, Staffing, Directing, Controlling |
| 102 | Organizational Behavior | Core | 3 | Foundations of OB, Perception, Attitudes, Motivation, Group Dynamics, Leadership |
| 103 | Managerial Economics | Core | 3 | Introduction to Managerial Economics, Demand Analysis, Production and Cost Analysis, Market Structures, Pricing Strategies |
| 104 | Accounting for Managers | Core | 3 | Introduction to Accounting, Financial Statements, Cost Accounting, Budgeting, Financial Analysis |
| 105 | Quantitative Techniques | Core | 3 | Introduction to QT, Probability, Hypothesis Testing, Correlation and Regression, Decision Theory, Linear Programming |
| 106 | Marketing Management | Core | 3 | Introduction to Marketing, Market Segmentation, Product Decisions, Pricing Decisions, Promotion Decisions, Distribution Decisions |
| 107 | Business Communication | Core | 3 | Basics of Communication, Oral Communication, Written Communication, Presentation Skills, Intercultural Communication |
| 108 | IT Workshop | Workshop | 1.5 | MS-Office tools, Data Analysis using Excel, Presentation tools, Internet usage, Basic IT concepts |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 201 | Human Resource Management | Core | 3 | Introduction to HRM, HR Planning, Recruitment and Selection, Training and Development, Performance Management, Compensation Management |
| 202 | Financial Management | Core | 3 | Introduction to FM, Time Value of Money, Capital Budgeting, Working Capital Management, Cost of Capital, Capital Structure |
| 203 | Research Methodology | Core | 3 | Introduction to Research, Research Design, Data Collection, Sampling, Data Analysis, Report Writing |
| 204 | Operations Management | Core | 3 | Introduction to OM, Production Planning, Inventory Management, Quality Management, Supply Chain Management, Project Management |
| 205 | Business Environment & Law | Core | 3 | Economic Environment, Political & Legal Environment, Socio-Cultural Environment, Indian Contract Act, Company Law, Consumer Protection Act |
| 206 | Management Information System | Core | 3 | Introduction to MIS, Information Systems Development, Database Management, E-commerce, Decision Support Systems, IT Security |
| 207 | Entrepreneurship & Startup Management | Core | 3 | Entrepreneurial Process, Idea Generation, Business Plan, Funding Startups, Legal Aspects, Growth Strategies |
| 208 | Business Analytics Workshop | Workshop | 1.5 | Introduction to Analytics, Data Visualization, Predictive Modeling, Prescriptive Analytics, Big Data Concepts, Analytical Tools |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 301 | Strategic Management | Core | 3 | Nature of Strategic Management, Environmental Analysis, Strategic Formulation, Strategic Implementation, Strategic Control, Corporate Governance |
| 302 | Management of Ethics & Corporate Social Responsibility | Core | 3 | Business Ethics, Ethical Decision Making, Corporate Governance, CSR Models, Sustainability Reporting, Stakeholder Management |
| IB 303 | International Business Environment | Elective - International Business | 3 | Globalization, International Trade Theories, Cultural Environment, Political & Legal Environment, Economic Environment, Regional Economic Integration |
| IB 304 | Export-Import Management | Elective - International Business | 3 | Export-Import Policy, Export Documentation, Import Procedures, Export Pricing, Export Finance, Export Promotion Schemes |
| IB 305 | International Marketing | Elective - International Business | 3 | Global Marketing Environment, International Market Entry Strategies, Product Decisions, Pricing Decisions, Promotion Decisions, Distribution Decisions |
| IB 306 | Foreign Exchange Management | Elective - International Business | 3 | Foreign Exchange Market, Exchange Rate Regimes, Spot and Forward Markets, Currency Risk Management, Derivatives, FOREX Trading |
| 307 | Summer Internship Project & Report (SIP) | Project | 6 | Project Formulation, Data Collection, Analysis & Interpretation, Report Writing, Presentation, Industry Application |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 401 | Indian Economy & Policy Environment | Core | 3 | Structure of Indian Economy, Economic Reforms, Sectoral Performance, Fiscal Policy, Monetary Policy, Trade Policy |
| 402 | Global Business & Strategy | Core | 3 | Global Strategic Alliances, Mergers & Acquisitions, Global Competitive Strategies, International HRM, Cross-Border Ethics, Global Supply Chain |
| IB 403 | International Financial Management | Elective - International Business | 3 | International Monetary System, Balance of Payments, International Capital Markets, International Investment Decisions, Exchange Rate Theories, Hedging Strategies |
| IB 404 | Cross Cultural Management | Elective - International Business | 3 | Dimensions of Culture, Cultural Impact on Business, Communication Across Cultures, Negotiation Styles, Global Leadership, Expatriate Management |
| IB 405 | International Logistics & Supply Chain Management | Elective - International Business | 3 | Global Logistics, International Transportation, Inventory Management, Warehousing, Supply Chain Design, Risk Management in SCM |
| IB 406 | International Human Resource Management | Elective - International Business | 3 | Strategic IHRM, Global Staffing, Expatriate Management, Compensation & Benefits, Training & Development, Performance Management |
| 407 | Dissertation/Project Work | Project | 6 | Research Design, Literature Review, Data Analysis, Thesis Writing, Presentation, Viva-Voce |




