European Union Business Immersion
Program Type
SU Faculty-Led
Program Provider
Seattle University
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About this Program
The EU is the world’s largest trading bloc, and the US-EU transatlantic market represents half of the world’s total output, defining the very contours of the economic and business opportunities and challenges faced by the global players who hail from the Pacific Northwest and who hire Albers graduates. Our hosts include leading companies – Amazon, Boeing, Costco, Microsoft, Paccar, and Starbucks, among others – that are very active in the EU, and lately so with considerable controversy and heightened scrutiny. Our focus is on your professional formation. Before we leave, while we're abroad, and after we return, you'll practice asking good questions of business professionals, demonstrating curiosity in professional spaces, and reflecting on your experiences with a view to continuous improvement. SU Course(s): ACCT 4910/5940; GBUS 4910/5940
- Program Website No valid link given
Program Highlights
- ACCT 4910/5940
- GBUS 4910/5940
Level of Immersion
Language(s) of Instruction:
- English
Features
- Courses with Study Abroad Students
- Experiential Immersion
- No Language Pre-Requisites
Housing Abroad
- Hotels
- Hostels
Housing at Seattle University
Moving can be both costly and stressful, but careful planning can help minimize both. Start by creating a housing plan for before and after your study abroad experience to avoid the pressure of continuing to pay for rent at home. Program fees typically cover housing abroad, so if you expect to incur additional domestic rent expenses, be sure to include these in your budget. If possible, consider staying with family or friends temporarily before you depart or when you return to save on costs.
Housing Residence Life
Education Abroad typically recommends considering Seattle University on-campus housing for when students return from their programs, as Housing Residence Life staff are able to support students in securing housing, while adhering to student preferenceas best as they can.
Housing Application
Check the Housing Portal for more specific dates
- Winter Quarter Housing applications open in November
- Spring Quarter Housing applications open in February
- Fall Quarter Housing applications open in May
Disciplines
Courseload
Students who participate in an SU-Sponsored, SU-Exchange, or Non-SU program must be fully enrolled at their host university/program provider. Full-time enrollment on a semester-length program is typically 15 US semester credits (not quarter credits) or 30 ECTS credits.
Note: Not all programs/host universities provide syllabi prior to the start of classes. Some may have samples of past syllabi but cannot guarantee that a specific course will be offered during the students' time abroad.
- Credit Range: 5-10 (UG); 3-6 (GR)
- Credit System: Quarter Credits
- Typical Course load: 1-2
- Credit Per Course: 5 (UG); 3 (GR)
Credit Conversion
- Transcript Issued By: Seattle University
- Credit Conversion Rate: 1 Quarter Credit = 1 Quarter Credit
- Quarter Range: 5-10 (UG); 3-6 (GR)
Academic Policy & Minimum Grade Requirement:
- Student will receive transfer credit for their study abroad program and academic grades will not be reflected on their Seattle University transcript and will not be reflected in the Seattle University GPA nor honors calculations.
- For all undergraduate programs, courses accepted in transfer are graded at least a C- when letter grades are issued and at least a 1.5 on the decimal grading system. Courses graded D+ or lower (1.5) will not be allowed either for transfer credit or to fulfill degree requirements.
- Students in the College of Nursing, the College of Science and Engineering, and communication and psychology majors in the College of Arts and Sciences will be required to repeat courses graded lower than C (2.0) if the course is a major requirement or if it is a prerequisite to a major requirement.
- Students in the Albers School of Business and Economics must complete required business courses (including mathematics, economics & accounting) with a grade of C (2.0) or better.
Transfer Credits
Letter grades received on this program will not transfer to SU nor factor into Seattle University GPA. If students receive the minimum grade required, credits will transfer toward their Seattle University degree as approved through the required pre-departure Course Approval process. Minimum grade details will be specified during Course Approval for each course taken abroad.
Placeholder Course
The Education Abroad Office will enroll students in a 12-credit placeholder course per term that you are abroad so that students maintain full-time student status and are billed properly. This placeholder course will be replaced by the courses taken abroad upon successful completion and receipt of official transcript.
Program Fees
Program fees are subject to change and based on previous year's tuition, if future tuition rates are not available yet. The purpose of the budget worksheets is to provide an estimate of how much studying abroad is going to cost. Actual spending may vary.
Fees not specified
Requesting a Financial Aid Estimate
Student Financial Aid allows students to request a financial aid estimate when planning an education abroad experience. Students can bring the completed worksheet of your preferred program to a meeting with a Student Financial Aid Counselor.
Budget Worksheets
Participation Costs
For undergraduate students participating in Faculty-Led Short Term programs, you will be billed Seattle University (1) Summer Tuition, (2) Technology Fee, (3) Wellness Fee, (4) Global Medical Insurance, and (5) Program Fee for the term abroad.
For graduate students participating in Faculty-Led Short Term programs, students are billed Seattle University (1) Graduate Tuition, (2) Technology Fee, (3) Global Medical Insurance, (4) Wellness Fee, and (5) Program Fee for the term abroad. These and estimated additional expenses are outlined in the program’s detailed Budget Worksheet. Students are encouraged to complete the Budget Worksheet and discuss applicable financial aid with Student Financial Services.
Payment
For undergraduate students participating in Faculty-Led Short Term programs, you will pay your Seattle University bill through your MySeattleU Student Account for the term(s) you are abroad. In addition to a 1-3 credit Spring Quarter course, you will enroll in and be billed Seattle University tuition for a 2-4 credit summer course at the discounted summer rate. The remaining program fee that will be charged to student account once enrolled in the associated course(s), charged during Summer Quarter.The Program Fee is labeled as "MSA Fee" on your bill.
For graduate students participating in Faculty-Led Short Term programs, you will pay your Seattle University bill through your MySeattleU Student Account for the term you are abroad, Summer Quarter.
Payment deadlines align with Seattle University’s quarterly deadlines and you can sign-up for a payment plan as usual. Consult the Budget Worksheet for a breakdown of estimate additional expenses.
Insurance
Scholarships
There are many study abroad scholarships for all program types. The application process may be easier than you think, but planning ahead is key. Deadlines are often 6-8 months in advance of departure. Check out the Scholarship section of Seattle University Education Abroad website for more information on scholarships and how to apply.
Student Journey
| Approximate Timeline | Phase | More details |
|---|---|---|
| Sept-Jan | Exploration | Students will work with Education Abroad and various supporters (family, academic advisor, etc.) to find a program that best fits student's academic, personal, and professional goals. |
| Feb 1 | Apply | Students will have the opportunity to apply to SU-Sponsored and SU-Exchange programs during next academic year in the Fall around November. The hard deadline is February 1st. |
| Late Feb/Early Mar | Nominations | Education Abroad Office will nominate selected students for SU-Sponsored and SU-Exchange programs. |
| Mar-May (Fall) Sept-Dec (Winter) Jan-March (Spring) | Preparation | Students will complete secondary applications for program providers/host university in preparation of going abroad. Additional preparatory steps include pre-departure orientation, courses approvals, Health Check, Visa application, planning housing arrangements (abroad & Seattle), immunizations, etc. |
Application Steps
- Apply by February 11 deadline. (Click on the "Apply Now" button above).
- For Short-Term Faculty Led programs, you will be enrolled in a Spring Course (1-3 credits) on-campus for pre-departure preparation and a Summer Course (2-4 credits) for immersive academic content abroad. Undergraduate students will receive institutional aid to fully offset the summer tuition for these programs.
- Questions? Email Bryan Ruppert (ruppertb@seattleu.edu) or Valentina Zamora (zamorava@seattleu.edu)
If you haven’t joined the Education Abroad Canvas Course yet, Join Now!
Climate
- Germany Summer: Warm weather between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.
- Belgium Summer: Warm with occasional rain, with temperatures between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This is peak travel season, ideal for exploring cities and outdoor festivals.
- Netherlands Summer: Warm and humid, with temperatures between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Ideal for outdoor festivals, bike rides, and exploring the countryside.
- France Summer: Warm to hot, with temperatures between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). This season is perfect for exploring beaches and outdoor cafés.
- Italy Summer: Summers are typically hot and dry, with temperatures between 20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F). Southern regions and cities like Rome and Florence can get especially hot.
Travel Resources
- Germany
- Air: Major international airports are located in Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin.
- Train: Germany has an extensive rail network operated by Deutsche Bahn (DB), including high-speed trains (ICE) connecting major cities. For details, visit Deutsche Bahn.
- Public Transport: Buses, trams, and metro systems operate in most cities, with highly efficient transportation networks. Cycling is also popular with bike-friendly infrastructure.
- Belgium
- Air: Major international airports include Brussels Airport, Brussels South Charleroi Airport, and Antwerp Airport.
- Train: Belgium’s extensive rail network, operated by SNCB/NMBS, connects major cities and towns, and high-speed trains like Thalys and Eurostar provide quick access to neighboring countries.
- Public Transport: Cities such as Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent have comprehensive public transportation systems, including buses, trams, and metros. Multi-trip tickets are available.
- Netherlands
- Air: The main international gateway is Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport, one of the busiest airports in Europe. For more information, visit Schiphol Airport.
- Train: The Netherlands boasts an efficient rail network, operated by Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS), with international connections via Thalys and Eurostar. For more details, visit NS.
- Public Transport: Trams, buses, and metro systems operate in most cities. Bicycles are widely used, with dedicated lanes and infrastructure for cyclists. For more information, visit Public Transport Netherlands.
- France
- Air: France has several major international airports, including Charles de Gaulle and Orly in Paris, as well as airports in Nice and Lyon. Charles de Gaulle is the main hub for international flights. Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport.
- Train: High-speed trains (TGV) connect France's cities and neighboring countries. The Eurostar provides direct routes to London. For schedules and tickets, visit SNCF.
- Public Transport: France's cities offer efficient public transportation systems, including buses, trams, and metro services. For local transit information, check RATP for Paris.
- Italy
- Air: Italy is well-connected by air, with major international airports in Rome (Fiumicino), Milan (Malpensa), Venice (Marco Polo), and Naples (Capodichino). How to Travel Around Italy.
- Train: Italy boasts an extensive train network with high-speed trains operated by Trenitalia and Italo. Trains connect major cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice. Visit the official website for Trenitalia and Italo.
- Public Transport: Urban areas like Rome, Milan, and Florence offer buses, trams, and metro systems. For more information, check local public transport websites (e.g., ATAC Rome).
Cultural Resources
- Germany
- Historical Sites: Key attractions include the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, and remnants of the Berlin Wall.
- Language: German is the official language, though English is widely understood, especially in urban areas and educational institutions.
- Festivals: Notable festivals include Oktoberfest (celebrated in Munich), the Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale), and Germany’s famous Christmas markets.
- Belgium
- Sites: Belgium’s must-see attractions include Grand Place in Brussels, Atomium, Bruges’ Canals, Ghent’s Gravensteen Castle, and the Battlefields of Flanders.
- Language: Belgium has three official languages: Dutch (Flemish) in Flanders, French in Wallonia, and German in a small eastern region. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
- Festivals: Major events include Tomorrowland (electronic music festival), Gentse Feesten (Ghent Festival), and Carnival of Binche (a UNESCO-recognized cultural festival).
- Netherlands
- Historical Sites: Popular sites include the Rijksmuseum, the Anne Frank House, and Keukenhof Gardens, famous for its vibrant tulips.
- Language: Dutch is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in urban areas and educational institutions.
- Festivals: Key festivals include King’s Day (celebrating the royal family), Amsterdam Dance Event (a major electronic music festival), and the Tulip Festival (celebrating the national flower).
- France
- Historical Sites: France is rich in cultural heritage with must-see landmarks like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and the Palace of Versailles.
- Language: French is the official language. While many people in larger cities speak English, learning basic French phrases is useful.
- Festivals: France hosts several iconic events, including the Cannes Film Festival, Bastille Day celebrations, and the Tour de France.
- Italy
- Historical Sites: Italy is home to some of the world's most famous cultural landmarks, including the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, the Colosseum in Rome, the Vatican Museums, and the ancient ruins of Pompeii. Be sure to purchase tickets in advance when possible to avoid long lines.
- Language: The official language is Italian. While many locals in tourist areas speak English, learning basic Italian phrases like "Ciao" (Hello), "Grazie" (Thank you), and "Dov'è...?" (Where is...?) can be helpful.
- Festivals: Italy is famous for its vibrant festivals, such as the Carnival of Venice with its iconic masks, Siena's Palio horse race, and the ancient sport of Calcio Storico in Florence.
Food & Diet
- Germany
- Cuisine: German food features hearty dishes such as bratwurst, pretzels, sauerkraut, and beer. Regional variations include schnitzel and spaetzle.
- Dietary Needs: Vegetarian and vegan options are increasingly available, especially in larger cities. Gluten-free and other dietary preferences are also catered to.
- Belgium
- Cuisine: Traditional Belgian foods include moules-frites (mussels and fries), waffles, chocolates, and stoofvlees (Flemish beef stew). Belgium is also famous for its diverse range of beers.
- Dietary Needs: Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available, particularly in urban areas where international and contemporary dining options are also popular.
- Netherlands
- Cuisine: Dutch cuisine includes traditional dishes such as stroopwafels (caramel-filled waffles), Dutch cheese, herring, and pancakes (pannenkoeken).
- Dietary Needs: Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available, especially in major cities. Gluten-free and other dietary options are also commonly offered.
- France
- Cuisine: France is renowned for its culinary tradition, including baguettes, cheese, wine, and croissants. Regional specialties like crêpes in Brittany and bouillabaisse in Marseille are worth trying.
- Dietary Needs: Vegetarian and vegan options are increasingly available, especially in urban areas, although traditional French cuisine tends to be meat-heavy.
- Italy
- Cuisine: Italian food is renowned worldwide. Staples include pasta, pizza, gelato, and espresso. Each region has its unique specialties—don’t miss out on trying traditional dishes like Risotto alla Milanese in the north or Cannoli in Sicily.
- Dietary Needs: Italy has become more accommodating to various dietary preferences. You'll find many restaurants offering gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. Be sure to ask for “senza glutine” (gluten-free) or “vegetariano” (vegetarian) when needed.
Embassy/Consulate
- U.S. Consulate General Frankfurt: Gießener Str. 30, 60435 Frankfurt am Main (Phone: +49-69-7535-0)
- U.S. Embassy in Brussels: Regentlaan 27 Boulevard du Régent, B-1000, Brussels (Phone: +32 2 811 4000)
- U.S. Consulate General in Amsterdam: Museumplein 19, 1071 DJ Amsterdam (Phone: +31 20 575-5309 (Emergencies involving U.S. citizens only), For other inquiries: +31 70 310-2209)
- U.S. Consulate General Strasbourg: 15 Avenue d'Alsace, 67082 Strasbourg, France (Phone: +33143124880)
- U.S. Consulate General Milan: via Principe Amedeo 2/10 Milano, Italy 20121 (Phone: +(39) 02-290-351)
Identity-Specific Considerations
- Germany
- Accessibility: Germany offers generally good accessibility, with modern buildings and public transport equipped for individuals with disabilities. More information can be found at Accessible Germany.
- LGBTQ+: Germany is progressive and accepting of LGBTQ+ individuals, especially in cities like Berlin and Cologne, which have vibrant LGBTQ+ communities and events like Pride parades.
- Religion: Germany is religiously diverse, with Christianity being the dominant faith, alongside growing Muslim, Jewish, and non-religious communities, reflecting its multicultural society.
- Race & Ethnicity: Germany is home to diverse ethnic groups, including a significant immigrant population, but racial minorities may experience discrimination and disparities in social and economic opportunities.
- Gender: Germany has strong legal protections for gender equality, though women face ongoing challenges such as wage gaps and underrepresentation in leadership roles.
- Belgium
- Accessibility: Belgium is generally accessible, with public transportation and modern facilities equipped for individuals with disabilities, particularly in urban areas.
- LGBTQ+: Belgium is one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries, with legal protections and a progressive society. Major cities have inclusive communities and events, including Pride Brussels.
- Religion: Belgium is religiously diverse, with Roman Catholicism historically dominant, alongside significant Muslim and secular communities.
- Race & Ethnicity: Belgium is ethnically diverse, but racial minorities may face occasional discrimination, particularly in housing and employment.
- Gender: Belgium promotes gender equality with strong legal protections, though gender wage gaps and representation disparities persist in some sectors.
- Netherlands
- Accessibility: The Netherlands has a high level of accessibility, with modern public transport systems and facilities that cater to people with disabilities. More information can be found at Accessible Travel Netherlands.
- LGBTQ+: The Netherlands is highly progressive, being the first country to legalize same-sex marriage in 2001. Cities like Amsterdam have vibrant LGBTQ+ communities and host annual Pride events.
- Religion: The Netherlands is religiously diverse, with a historically Christian majority and growing Muslim, Hindu, and secular populations, reflecting its multicultural society.
- Race & Ethnicity: The Netherlands is ethnically diverse, with significant immigrant communities from Suriname, Turkey, Morocco, and the Caribbean, though racial minorities may face occasional discrimination and social inequality.
- Gender: The Netherlands is a global leader in gender equality, with strong legal protections and progressive societal attitudes, though wage gaps and underrepresentation in leadership roles persist in some sectors.
- France
- Accessibility: France’s major cities, like Paris, have made significant strides in improving accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, older buildings and rural areas may be less accessible.
- LGBTQ+: France is known for its progressive and inclusive attitudes, especially in large cities. LGBTQ+ events such as Paris Pride are widely celebrated, though attitudes in rural areas may be more conservative.
- Religion: France is religiously diverse, with a secular constitution promoting freedom of religion; Islam, Christianity, and non-religious groups are prominent, though tensions around religious identity can arise.
- Race & Ethnicity: France has a diverse population, including significant immigrant communities, but racial minorities often face challenges related to discrimination and social integration.
- Gender: France has strong legal protections for gender equality, though women still face disparities in pay, leadership roles, and instances of gender-based violence.
- Italy
- Accessibility: Italy has made significant strides in improving accessibility, especially in larger cities like Rome and Milan. However, historic areas and smaller towns may have limited accommodations. It's best to check ahead and plan accordingly.
- LGBTQ+: Italy is largely progressive regarding LGBTQ+ rights, with legal protections in place. However, social attitudes may vary, particularly in more rural or conservative areas. Larger cities like Rome and Milan have vibrant LGBTQ+ communities and events, such as Pride Parades.
- Religion: Italy is predominantly Roman Catholic, with deep cultural ties to the church, though there is growing religious diversity due to immigration and an increasing number of non-religious individuals.
- Race & Ethnicity: Italy has a diverse population, with immigrant communities from Africa, Asia, and Eastern Europe, though racial minorities may face social and economic discrimination, particularly in rural areas.
- Gender: Gender equality is advancing in Italy, with legal protections in place, but traditional gender roles and a significant gender pay gap remain challenges, especially in the workplace.
Visa Requirements
What is a Visa?
A visa is a permission granted by a country that allows foreign nationals to enter and reside there temporarily. Applicants typically need to provide documentation such as an acceptance letter from the educational institution, proof of financial means, and health insurance. Student visas come with specific regulations regarding work rights, travel restrictions, and duration of stay, varying by country.
Below is a brief overview of the current visa requirements for your program. Note that countries may amend visa requirements at any time, so it will be important to follow all instructions given by the German Government and Schengen Zone.
U.S. passport holders do not need to apply for a visa before traveling to Germany and can enter Europe/Schengen Zone on a 90-day “tourist visa” which is provided on arrival in Germany (Non-U.S. citizens may need to apply for a Type–D national visa before traveling to Germany and should consult their respective consulates.The application process varies by Consulate and student location but may require travel to the nearest Consulate to apply in-person. Seattle University's Education Abroad can provide additional supporting visa application documents for Non-U.S. citizens, if applicable; however, the decision to grant admission into the country is not in Seattle University's control.) Keep in mind that entry requirements are specific to the length of your stay, citizenship, and the type of activities you will be engaged in. It is your responsibility to determine specific entry requirements and stipulations prior to the start of your program.