Xavier launches innovative summer business program in Israel

In the push to offer relevant, innovative study options to Cincinnati’s college students, Xavier University is offering two new business-oriented study abroad programs in Israel, beginning this summer.This new series of programs adds to Xavier’s offerings in China, Jordan and Egypt, and Korea and Japan.For undergraduate students, of any major, a six credit hour program will be offered from June 4-22.  Doing Business in Israel, offering three credit hours, will give students a peek into the business, political and social landscape of Israel.  Special emphasis will be given to social entrepreneurship and the influence of culture on business.The interreligious culture of contemporary Israel will be explored through the Study of Western Religions, rounding out the last three credit hours of the program.Although the courses in this program compliment XU’s curriculum, they are transferrable to other institutions, as well.“I anticipate a very positive experience for the travelers,” says George Gordon, instructor in Xavier’s MBA program at the Williams College of Business and leader of the undergraduate trip.  “It is not only a chance to earn 6 credit hours, but it’s an opportunity to look at history and tradition in order to understand today’s business values as well as Israel and the Middle East’s role in today’s flat world. Is there any better place to study comparative religion than in Jerusalem?” But undergrads are the only ones to benefit from this program launch.  Israel, a land known for its prevalence of social entrepreneurship and strength in things high-tech, offers an excellent case study for examining global economic forces.Thus, MBA students and alumni can participate in the three credit hour course, Doing Business in Israel, which promises to enlighten on global market forces affecting Israel, foster an understanding of Israel’s importance as a global economic power and compare and contrast Israeli and American business culture.Innovatively taking the learning beyond classroom walls, students in both programs will observe business operations Cincinnati-side then observe the same companies as they do business in Israel.Guest appearances will be made by government and business leaders, entrepreneurs and Israeli business students.“According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, Israel has more companies on the NASDAQ than any other country, except the U.S. and Canada,” says Art Shriberg, Professor of Management and Entrepreneurship and leader of the graduate trip. Alongside taking care of business, participating students will also have opportunity to visit various sites of cultural and religious significance throughout the program.For those interested, the application deadline for both programs is March 15, 2009.  The cost of both programs is the tuition fee, plus $3,200, which covers all travel and hotels, most meals and other miscellaneous expenses.  Writer:  Jonathan DeHartSource:  Laurel Bauer, Xavier University