The world has become a Global Village, businesses operate without boundaries and more and more people are mobile. We are not afraid to explore new places anymore. With the help of the Internet and social media, we can find information about any place we would like to go and we can even meet with people online to exchange opinions. If we are living in a global context, why not take your MBA one step further and blend it with [international opportunities]?

Diversity is very important for us at the Rotman School of Management. When you look at the school from different perspectives, in fact diversity is what we are made of; located in the most multicultural city in North America, Toronto, having a class body of 40% from all over the world. Last year’s class represented 30 countries and the number of languages spoken was 27! Our campus is a micro globe and on top of these our International Program Services Office (IPSO) works very hard to further your international exposure. We offer various opportunities abroad; exchange programs and 2-week study tours are among the most popular. We have a physical office in London where prospective students can reach out to the Rotman representative, Matilda Kentridge for further assistance. We also offer a “Doing Business International Intensive Program” and International Consulting Projects.

Exchange Programs: how do they work?

We are partners with more than 20 schools all over the world. As you can imagine, all of these schools are as strong as Rotman; they all hold high global rankings. The language of instruction is always English. The application process is very straightforward. You need to fill out an online application form and write a letter of intent. There will be a panel interview based on the applicant’s first choice and the host school will also have a short interview with you. Laura Wood, Director of the International Department, says the key is to maintain a very strong GPA at Rotman and give us as many options as you can because you will be asked to choose 10 out of 23 schools.

We are very proud of our students because so far all of the students interested in an exchange program went and successfully completed the program.

The exchange program is for one term and yes, there will be some opportunities to travel while you are there!

Study Tours: how do they work?

 Study tours are business focused trips to four destinations: Latin America, Middle East, India and China. There are also more destinations in the works! These two-week long tours are offered twice a year, in January and May, and you are with a group of 15 classmates. The application process for this opportunity is quite different than for the exchange programs. There is some research involved; you will be asked to come up with a list of companies and industries you would like to visit when you are abroad. Our IPSO will establish the connections. There will be a 14-hour prep course before you embark on this exciting journey. At the end, there will be deliverables and you will be graded.

You will not only explore different cultures but also get to know some of our alumni located in that part of the world. This is a great opportunity for networking for those who are interested in doing business internationally.

When can one participate in these great international opportunities?

Full-time students can participate in their second year of the program and three-year students can participate either in the second or third year of their program.

Regardless of the program you choose, it will definitely be great personal development for you. You will hone your people and cultural adaptation skills and have great international exposure on your resume!