Global Commerce Immersion Courses

Our Global Commerce Immersion (GCI) courses combine on-Grounds coursework with a short-term study-abroad experience. These programs take place over January term, spring break, or May term, and in most cases are open to all University of Virginia students.

Explore Global Commerce Firsthand

Discover our GCI courses where you'll learn to thrive in an interconnected world.

These 3-credit electives are designed for undergraduate and graduate students from the McIntire School of Commerce and are open to other UVA majors. Taught by McIntire's distinguished faculty, the courses empower you to broaden your academic horizons and apply your knowledge to real-world scenarios.

GCI courses go beyond traditional classrooms, offering regional travel and either project-based work or executive briefings with industry experts. You will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in rich cultural experiences and engage with the local business landscape to gain firsthand insights.

Topics and locations vary each year and term, but have included themes such as conservation in Kenya; sustainability in Switzerland; management consulting in Costa Rica; accounting, finance, and professional services in Europe; and more.

Schedule a conversation with a Global Programs Adviser to learn more about upcoming opportunities to foster your global mindset, and scholarship availability.

Example GCI Locations & Topics

Please note that course offerings and destinations are subject to change.

Investing in a Sustainable Future in Germany and Switzerland
Investing in a Sustainable Future in Germany and Switzerland

Climate change, water scarcity, and social inequity are part of our modern world, and business leaders are recognizing the opportunities and threats posed by these and other sustainability issues. Wise managers are now actively seeking out ways to integrate sustainable business practices into their organizations to drive strategic and competitive advantage. This Commerce course affords students the opportunity to learn and demonstrate their understanding of cutting-edge sustainable business practices and technologies currently in use in Germany and Switzerland.

Asian Financial Capitals in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur
Asian Financial Capitals in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur

This fascinating exploration of two vibrant cities in Southeast Asia delves into the role of Singapore and Kuala Lumpur as Asian financial capitals through a series of onsite visits to financial firms, executive presentations, and discussions on doing business in the region. As an important economic and geopolitical hub, ASEAN offers dynamic business opportunities and different strengths in its financial centers. Singapore, for instance, is emerging as a hub for private banking and wealth management, whereas Kuala Lumpur holds significance as a center for Islamic finance.

The Business of Conservation in Kenya
The Business of Conservation in Kenya

In this course, students engage in a hands-on exploration of the grand challenges of conservation, tackling pressing issues and developing solutions that effectively meet stakeholders' needs. The course emphasizes the involvement of the private sector in addressing these challenges. Throughout their experience in Kenya, students are immersed in a culturally rich environment, learning about local foods, art, customs, and wildlife. Students gain an appreciation for both the similarities and differences between their home environments and the context of East Africa.

IT Project Practicum in Argentina
IT Project Practicum in Argentina

Collaborating as members of an international consulting team, students in this course tackle real-world challenges faced by wine-making companies in Mendoza, Argentina. Recognizing the global nature of the wine industry and its significant impact on international exports, teams analyze business problems, identify goals and requirements, evaluate alternative solutions, and present recommendations to actual clients. This course is offered in partnership with the School of Engineering, and project teams comprise students from both schools.

Management Consulting Practicum in Costa Rica
Management Consulting Practicum in Costa Rica

This course offers gives students the chance to be part of a real-world consulting team working closely with a client organization. Serving as consultants, students gain in-depth insights into the Costa Rican business environment and its ties to the global economy. The team will pinpoint a core business challenge confronting their client, structure an appropriate problem-solving strategy, perform analysis, and formulate and deliver impactful recommendations. The course also explores cultural highlights of the host country.

Accounting, Finance and Professional Services in Europe
Accounting, Finance and Professional Services in Europe

Students in this course examine the European business landscape, focusing on understanding the impact of cultural, political, and economic factors on the provision of professional services such as accounting, finance, consulting, and real estate on the continent, and especially the UK. Potential topics include sustainability reporting in Europe, data privacy, the UK’s role in European business markets, capital markets in the UK, and the professionals operating in these fields. Students engage with representatives from global consulting and accounting firms and investment companies, regulators, and other professionals at companies and organizations doing business in London. A key objective of the course is to guide students in preparing for careers that involve global assignments and experiences.

Learn More

Students interested in participating in a GCI course (including UVA students not enrolled at McIntire) should schedule an appointment with a Global Programs Adviser to explore upcoming course opportunities.

Program advisers’ offices are located in Robertson Hall, Suite 163.