International Business & Trade

What makes a business succeed in today’s market and what are the steps taken between identifying a need and opening your (real or virtual) doors? What are the key similarities and differences between business management in the West and the way it is approached in Japan? Explore the way culture and tradition impact business dealings across international boundaries, and how partnerships depend upon vital, dynamic relationships in this hands-on course. Begin by examining the economic playing field where firms operate, with discussions of economic concepts such as supply and demand, regulation versus free trade, international trade, and currency fluctuation. Explore the way inflation and stagflation and the “bubble” economy of the 1990’s have impacted Japan’s global economic influence. Through role-playing, discussions, field trips to firms and factories, as well as guest lectures, consider the practical aspects of international business, including management, finance, marketing, advertising, public relations, organizational psychology, corporate leadership, and business ethics. Put what you have learned into practice as you research, develop, and pitch your own business idea or trade proposal.