International Business Cases in Belgium

Program Specifics

Course Titles:

  • Bus 283/IS 283 or Bus 483. International Business Cases in Antwerp, Belgium
  • RS 258. Protestant, Catholic, Jew and Muslim:  Intersections in the Low Countries, 1000-2000+
  • Both courses must be completed by all participants

Course Description: This course will underscore the relationship between religious history and international business in the Lowlands and beyond to all Europe.  International Business Cases will continue to focus on industries where Belgium and France have historical advantages and expertise, for example, diamonds, beer, printing, weaving, champagne, transportation and chocolate.  RS 258 will be integral to the study of international business in Belgium and France.  Many of the sites we visit are not only important to business and politics in the European Union but are also related to the religious history of the area.  For example, why are Orthodox Jews in Antwerp traditionally involved in the diamond business? Why are the life and paintings of Peter Paul Rubens so closely associated with the tensions between Catholic and Protestant countries in Europe? 

Dates: May 17-June 8, 2010

Faculty Leaders: Prof. John Planchon, Department of Economics and Business Administration, and Prof. Gail Streete, Department of Religious Studies

Program Cost Estimate: $5750 includes tuition, room, partial board and excursions

Prerequisites:

  • Minimum GPA: 2.00
  • In order to obtain credit for Bus 483 students must have had Bus 351, 361 or 371

Academic Overview:

Credit Hours to be Earned: 8

Foundations Requirements to be Fulfilled: F1, F11