UMD News: July 12, 2001

Communication Associate: Public Relations | Lori Melton | lmelton@d.umn.edu | (218) 726-8830

July 12, 2001
Susan Beasy Latto, Director, Public Relations 218 726-8830
Kjell Knudsen, Dean, UMD School of Business and Economics 218 726-7281

UMD School of Business and Economics Announces Plans to Internationalize Curriculum
Receives $179,500 Grant from U.S. Department of Education

The UMD School of Business and Economics (SBE) has announced major plans to internationalize its curriculum thanks to a $179,500 grant from the U.S. Department of Education's Business and International Education Program. UMD's proposal was one of only 29 funded nationally by the U.S. Department of Education, and was awarded the maximum funding amount.

"The internationalization of the curriculum will allow the UMD School of Business and Economics to strengthen its role as a vital resource in preparing our students to work in a world-wide economy, as well as helping area businesses wishing to compete in the global marketplace," said Kjell Knudsen, Dean of the School.

Beginning this fall, approximately 20 courses in the departments of management studies, accounting, economics, and finance & management information sciences will be restructured to provide emphasis on international perspectives and issues. A new course in international business management will be added, as well as a new course in business German developed by the foreign languages department.

Plans are being made to establish international internships for SBE students, and for faculty members to participate in annual international trade seminars held abroad. UMD also plans to bring internationally renowned scholars to the campus. These scholars will offer seminars and presentations on global marketplace issues to the local business community.

The total project outlay is approximately $380,000. In addition to the federal grant, funding is being provided by the UMD Office of Academic Administration, UMD School of Business and Economics, and the UMD Center for Economic Development. Local businesses are also expected to contribute to this project.

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