Global Commerce Track
What Is a Track?
A “track” is an area of study crossing over multiple concentration areas. Courses taken to satisfy track requirements can also be used to satisfy concentration requirements. Tracks are available only for Commerce students. Students may not complete more than one track. The Global Commerce track is composed of 12 hours of coordinated coursework (15 hours for the Global Scholar in Commerce program).
Overview
The Global Commerce track, a course of study spanning multiple concentration areas, is designed to provide students with a broad and interdisciplinary understanding of the global business environment, an in-depth regional perspective, and an appreciation of the challenges and opportunities facing a wide array of commercial enterprises operating within these interrelated environments.
Eligibility
The Global Commerce track is open to all Commerce students whose academic requirements allow them the flexibility to take the required 12 credit hours.
Core Curriculum (9 hours; must be completed at McIntire)
COMM 4310 (F/S) "Global Marketing"
COMM 4690 (F/S) "Global Management"
COMM 4741 (F) "Global Finance"
Global Commerce in Context (3 hours)
Students can satisfy this requirement by completing one course from the following categories:
1. Complete a Global Commerce Immersion (GCI) course offered by the McIntire School (e.g., J term, May term, or spring break). Here is a partial list of qualifying courses:
- COMM 4160 "Special Topics in International Accounting"
- COMM 4390 "Market Insights in Southeast Asia"
- COMM 4650 "Business, Politics, and Culture in the European Union"
- COMM 4742 "International Finance and Accounting"
- COMM 4824 "Sustainable Development Practicum"
- COMM 4825 "Development Practice: Social Enterprises in Bangladesh"
OR
2. Complete a regionally focused elective (beyond the COMM 3050 requirement) while studying abroad with one of McIntire’s global academic partners.
OR
(On an exception basis for students who are unable to study abroad or enroll in a GCI course)
An exception, generally granted only under unusual circumstances, must be approved and documented through a "Request for Exception to the Academic Rules Committee" Petition Process available through McIntire Student Services.
3. Complete a McIntire School of Commerce course (preferred) or a UVA course with a global focus, such as:
- COMM 3880 "Global Sustainability," COMM 4821 "Managing Sustainable Development," or another relevant McIntire School course; OR
- A College of Arts & Sciences non-Western perspective class at UVA while enrolled at the McIntire School. Classes that meet this requirement change each semester.
Global Commerce Scholar
Students who desire a deeper understanding of global context of business can apply for the Global Commerce Scholars program, which involves successfully completing a 3-credit independent global research thesis.
Selection Criteria
Interested students declared in the track apply to be a Scholar in Global Commerce by Sept. 15 of their fourth year. Application materials are submitted through an online application process and include the following: (1) resume, (2) one-page statement of research goals and design, (3) a statement of interest, and (4) unofficial UVA transcript including spring of third year grades (or Final Course of Study for students abroad). Criteria for selection will include past academic performance (including the COMM 3050 ICE curriculum or equivalent), experiences, and global research interests. Students will be notified by Oct. 1. Admission will be limited to 15 students.
COMM 4840 (S) "Global Commerce Scholar Thesis"
The Global Scholar Thesis is an independent research project that draws from prior courses in the Global Commerce curriculum to design and execute a program of study centered on a particular global topic and how it shapes the business environment and specific opportunities within it. Global Commerce Scholars will present their findings to McIntire faculty and fellow scholars. Scholars will also be encouraged to submit their findings to an undergraduate global business research conference. The Global Scholar Thesis will be chaired by a McIntire faculty member.
Additional questions can be addressed to Professor Trey Maxham, Associate Dean for the B.S. in Commerce Program, or Professor Peter Maillet, Associate Dean for Global Initiatives.