Commerce and Culture in Southeast Asia

Note:  **The following program is under review by the University. All details below are tentative and subject to change.**

Vietnam and Thailand have rich cultures and significant business markets. Both being commercial and shipping hubs connecting the Pacific Ocean with the Indian Ocean. 

As Southeast Asia’s economic heart, Bangkok in Thailand offers firsthand exposure to multinational corporations, startups, and financial institutions. Its strategic location at the crossroads of Asia provides insights into international trade, logistics, and emerging markets.

With a booming digital economy and strong government support for entrepreneurship, Bangkok fosters innovation and business growth. Students gain valuable cross-cultural communication skills while experiencing Thailand’s unique blend of tradition and modernity. 

Vietnam is undergoing a period of tremendous growth and revitalization and has captured the attention of international businesses, as well as tourists wanting to experience its culture.

Ho Chi Minh City, the country’s financial hub, is home to major multinational companies, thriving startups, and a dynamic entrepreneurial scene. Meanwhile, Hanoi, the political and cultural capital, offers unique insights into government-business relations and international trade. Together, these cities provide a comprehensive view of Vietnam’s rapidly evolving business landscape.

In this program, undergraduate business majors and business minors can earn six hours of business credit. The program includes business site visits, cultural excursions, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Courses Offered

• MGT 3301/MGT 3303 — Management of Organizations
• MKT 3343 — Principles of Marketing
• BA 4300 — Independent Study in Global Business

Activities

(all activities subject to change)

Bangkok, Thailand

• City tour, temple & Grand Palace
• Bangkok market immersion
• Company Visit: Bangkok Port (overview of economic and socio-political environment in Thailand)

Vietnam

• Saigon City Expedition
• Ho Chi Minh Market Immersion
• Foodie Tour by Motorbike
• Cu Chi tunnels
• Company Visits: Manufacturing in Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City), IT in Vietnam (Hanoi); E-Commerce in Vietnam (Hanoi), Food & Beverage in Vietnam, Textiles in Vietnam

Tentative Dates

(all dates subject to change)

• Program orientations/pre-trip meetings: December 2025
• At least two orientations and a few online assignments will occur prior to departure: November/early December 2025
• Approximate departure from United States (student are responsible for own travel to program): Friday, Jan. 2, 2026
• First day of classes abroad: Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026
• Last day of classes abroad: Thursday, Jan 15, 2026
• Return from program: Friday, Jan. 16, 2026
• Last program class day (classes will periodically meet either online or asynchronously in the first part of the spring semester. Exact meeting schedule to be announce in August 2024): Friday, March 6, 2026

Expected Cost

$5,800 + (includes six credit hours of undergraduate tuition)

The program fee includes:

• Application fee ($200)
• Program deposit ($300)
• Lodging and breakfast each morning
• Mid-program flight between Bangkok/Ho Chi Minh City/Hanoi
• Business visits, city walking tours and some cultural excursions
• Day trip to Mekong Delta
• Local transportation and/or public transportation passes for program activites

Program fee does not include:

• Flights to and from Asia
• Personal excursions and expenses
• Passport application/visa fees
• Textbooks
• Meals