Effectively Integrating an International Field Study into the EMBA Curriculum

ABSTRACT An international field study (IFS) is an integral part of the EMBA program because of the various critical roles it plays. This international travel experience is a value-added activity not only as “stand alone” vehicle for understanding macro-level environments and firm-level strategic initiatives, but also as a tool that integrates other pieces of the EMBA curriculum while enhancing behavioral aspects of the EMBA students. This paper suggests an effective model for planning an IFS. It proposes that attention to the rigor and diversity of the actual overseas study will enhance the learning objectives of the program. It further proposes that attention to both the IFS placement within the program and how it is integrated with other pieces of the curriculum will improve the knowledge flow for students. It is demonstrated that proactive communication and cooperation among program faculty will allow the IFS to be effectively utilized for program integration and provide significant benefits to the EMBA students.