In this work, a finite element model based on an improved first-order formulation (IFSDT) is developed to analyze buckling phenomenon in laminated composite beams. The formulation has five independent variables and takes into account thickness stretching. Threedimensional constitutive equations are employed to define the material properties. The Trefftz criterion is used for the stability analysis. The finite element model is derived from the principle of virtual work with high-order Lagrange polynomials to interpolate the field variables and to prevent shear locking. Numerical results are compared and validated with those available in literature. Furthermore, a parametric study is presented.