Study trips are the overseas component of SMU's unique ‘Business Study Mission' module, which comprises a series of intensive seminars leading up to the visit. To date, more than 700 SMU undergraduates have embarked on business study missions to countries such as Argentina, Bangalore, Chile, China, Germany, India, Qatar, Spain, UAE, USA and Vietnam.

These business study missions cover a host of site visits, networking sessions and presentations by prominent guests from both the private and public sector. This facilitates a greater understanding of the various locations, and enables students to extend their personal networks in a given region. The BSM brings students into the heart of multi-national organisations, and provides an insight into the real-world operations of a variety of industries. It can also bring students into direct contact with CEOs. This can lead to the establishment of valuable contacts and sometimes secures an overseas internship.

Course Objectives

The BSM module examines a country's developing relationship with Singapore through the study of its unique business, socio-political and cultural environment.

Focusing on business sectors, students gain unique insights into a country or city. Students consider the potential for internships, career and business opportunities, and develop business and educational networks, career and business opportunities. Through case studies, student projects and guest lectures, the course aims to present students with real-life environmental influences and challenges that impact businesses in a specific country.

The course culminates in a trip to the country studied and enables the students to develop a better understanding of the region through direct in situ exposure to its economy, culture, history, and political system, and its relationship with Singapore.

Lessons can then be drawn from these economies that can have an impact on the development of the business infrastructure of Singapore.