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Doing Business in China

Explore and experience business within the world's most dynamic economy. With MSOE's two-part graduate course "Doing Business in China" you will explore the world's most dynamic economy with a classroom experience during Spring Quarter 2010 and an 11-day trip to Shanghai, Suzhou and Beijing from May 28 - June 7, 2010. Through experienced guests, readings and discussions you will learn about essential operating strategies, management issues and ethical considerations to doing business in China. Knowledge gained and networks established will aid in preparation for international assignments, business plan development, international trade, global team participation, and travel. These courses provide a rare opportunity to interact and learn from expert leaders and can be used as a career differentiator.

China is endless in its depth and complexity. The rapid growth of China and its integration into the global economy continues to be one of the most important business stories of our time. The ramifications of the massive transformation from an agrarian to a modern, industrial-based economy reverberate through China's domestic, cultural and political systems-and through businesses around the globe.

Domestic course
MG 8042a, Spring '10, Monday nights, March 8 - May 24, 2010

This course provides the foundation for doing business in China. Top leaders from a variety of organizations will share their first-hand knowledge and experience of operating strategies and management issues in China. Readings and discussions will integrate research, theory and application. Virtual sessions with leaders located in Asia and domestic corporate tours will be incorporated into the course. Deliverables for this course include article reviews, a research-based presentation and interview summary.

Shanghai Harbor at nightOptional international course
MG 8042b, Summer '10, May 28 - June 7, 2010 with follow-up in late June

Gain first-hand experience through 11 days of travel in Shanghai and Beijing. While abroad, network with expatriates, government officials and local business leaders during corporate tours and meetings. Cultural and historic understanding will be enhanced through tours of the Great Wall of China, Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, among others. Students will also experience the sights and sounds of China through shopping in local markets and taking public transportation. View glimpses of other world cultures and even the future by attending the World Expo. Deliverables for this course include a reflection paper and an applied research-based learning contract.

Key learning objectives:

  • Gain an understanding of the current and future importance of China within the global market
  • Identify and appraise distinct global operating strategies and assess the implications of each
  • Explore specific issues related to managing in China, such as assessing tactics to motivate employees and generating approaches to managing virtually
  • Develop professional networks through contacts established through the course
  • Appreciate the culture through a mini servant-leadership project
  • Gain experience with international travel to promote confidence, efficiency and effectiveness

Partners:
Domestic and international leaders from the following premier organizations will provide knowledge and insights from their experiences in China:

  • Forbidden CityBrady Corp.
  • Foton
  • GE Healthcare
  • Knowles Technologies
  • Kohler Co.
  • Ladish Forging
  • Microsoft
  • Ministry of Industry from the People's Republic of China
  • Motorola
  • Oshkosh Corp.
  • Williams Controls
  • U.S. Export Center, Milwaukee Export Assistance Center

Registration options
Current students with 30 or more credits may enroll in the combined domestic and international courses in lieu of the Capstone/Thesis. Students with less than 30 credits can use the courses as elective credits.

Non Students
Alumni, spouses and employees of partner organizations can enroll in the graduate Doing Business in China courses through the Professional Development Admission process. Candidates must hold an undergraduate degree and complete the online form by selecting "Doing Business in China" to the general section of the form.

Additional Requirements for the International Immersion Course:

  • Completion of an application form AND letter of intent
  • Letter of recommendation/support from current employer or MSOE faculty
Fees/Costs
The domestic and international courses are each three graduate credits. Appropriate tuition applies.

Additionally, international fees are approximately $3,750, which includes airfare, lodging (based on double occupancy), ground transportation, group meals and scheduled tours. Quoted fees are estimates, fees may be altered based on number of participants and economic conditions.

A deposit is required to hold your space for the course abroad. Accommodations for spouses will be based on availability and will be determined on an individual basis.

Coordinating MSOE faculty
Dr. C. Kelly Ottman, Associate Professor, Rader School of Business, has extensive travel experience and has taught in China.

More information