International Business Consulting - Korea:
An Avenue for International Off-Campus Learning

Seoul - The Capital of Korea
With population of more than 10 million, Seoul is the vibrant heart and energetic capital of the nation. It is mixed with ultra-modern and traditional faces of Korea: ancient temples, palaces and parks along side shopping malls and high rise buildings. It is well-served by a comprehensive subway system so you can go anywhere without a car.

Country Background

     In East Asia, bordering the Sea of Japan and the Yellow Sea, is a progressive nation with cutting-edge world-class technologies. Called South Korea, this country is only 98,480 sq. kms (slightly larger than Indiana). Yet, it has a budding population of 48 million. Click here for additional data and a map of Korea.
    A few decades ago, the country had a GDP per capita similar to poorer countries of Africa and Asia. Since 2004, its GDP has exceeded a trillion dollars. 
    Korea exports $277 Billion worth of products, and the US is its second largest export partner (taking in 17% of its exports).
    The country imports $248 Billion worth of products, and the US is its third largest supplier (providing 13% of all its imports).
    Alongside China, Korea is among the most exciting trade destinations in Asia. This small-yet-vibrant nation is viewed to be an important player in the contemporary global economy.

Course Challenge

     We are seeking twelve (12) bright, committed, and enthusiastic students who are up and ready to learn and apply the business concepts they have learned to an international business environment. The participants should be Juniors or Seniors who have taken at least sixty (60) credit hours. Students majoring in Marketing, Finance, Accounting, International Business, Entrepreneurship, or Business Management are encouraged to participate. 
    The course provides students the opportunity to work alongside a Korean company seeking to introduce a natural sweetener into the US market. This product, called stevia, is virtually calorie-free, about 150 times sweeter than sugar, and has been ascribed to have several health benefits. Course experiences include : Travel (optional), Market research, Client collaboration, International correspondence, Business analysis and many more. A full-blown Business Development Plan for the international client is required.

Booking Instructions

     The International Business Consulting Course is open on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration is now accepted for the Fall Semester of 2006. This is a six-credit course, which includes participation in a trip to Korea sometime January 2007 (optional), and client presentation in the Spring of 2007. For students who opt to travel, the course organizers are trying to keep the travel cost to approximately $3,000. The final travel cost is yet to be determined, not all students enrolled in the course are required to travel to Korea. Interested parties may contact any of the following Professors for course clarification and reservation : Mark Munoz (International Business), Rick Bibb (Marketing), Sharon Alpi (Business Management), and Jim Watson (Finance). WELCOME ABOARD !!!