International Emphasis
Global experience is an integral aspect of the Berkeley-Columbia Executive MBA experience. As part of the International Seminar, a program highlight, students travel abroad for a week of experiential learning through lectures, discussions with local business and government leaders, and site visits. Each trip examines key factors influencing global business success in places as diverse as Latin America, India, Europe and China.
Experiencing Locally, Learning Globally
Students choose an International Seminar that matches their business interests—whether current or future. The course typically includes a combination of classroom lectures, group projects or site visits over a period of one week. Students may tack on a few days before or after the seminar to pursue business opportunities or simply enjoy the cultural ambience of the global business centers.
Gaining Historical Perspective
“Equipping executive business leaders with a deep global understanding and analyses is essential. Our trip to India explores two economic arenas: India as a major center for research, development and service operations of transnational companies (including those headquartered in India), as well as India as a large emerging market. The aim is to understand the current situation—the challenges and opportunities, the history, as well as the future outlooks of key players. The entrepreneurial situation is also examined both from the perspective of company founders and the local venture capital community.”
— Professor Maura O’Neill
Understanding Brand Diversity
“Companies need to understand the financial value of their corporate brand and products, to manage brands strategically and to deliver implementations to customers that are relevant, differentiated and powerful so as to build an emotional bond and loyalty. While in Munich, we focus on three topics: brand strategy and valuation; visual identity and experiential branding; and organizational branding issues. Drawing on the unique course location, students have met with professionals from the branding industry from companies such as Siemens, BMW, Allianz and Lowenbrau. We also take advantage of local cultural events, including Oktoberfest.”
— Professor Bernd Schmitt
