Location:

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Summer

Program Overview

Program Description:

In the world of strategic management, inspiration can come in many forms: classical literature and cutting-edge research, role models, movies, unconventional excursions, even a martial arts workshop. In this course, these elements combine to give you a keen understanding of strategic issues and how to succeed as a strategist.

This journey into strategic management will take you from the ancient wisdom of Sun Tzu and Marcus Aurelius all the way through to the modern-day ideas of Michael Porter and of Richard D’Aveni’s concept of hypercompetition. By analysing business heroes such as Richard Branson and Warren Buffett from a strategic perspective, you will come to see them as practical role models who can enhance your own learning and career strategies.

As you learn to identify and assess a wide range of positions on strategic issues in business, you will not only hone your critical faculties but also develop your social skills through peer review and feedback sessions.

Challenges abound! Building on the dialectical approach used in international strategy, you will advance scholarly knowledge and research skills in the field. You will write an essay on a strategic theme, problem or innovation, solve a business case using the Harvard Business Case model and produce a research paper on a strategist role model.

Strategic thinking is essential to achieving your goals amid the global forces and technological advances that shape our increasingly complex and dynamic world. This course takes your insights and awareness to a whole new level using strategic theories, models, ideas and tools that enable you to analyse, grow and develop new approaches.

Setting Description:

With over 180 unique nationalities, Amsterdam is a melting pot of cultures and embraces different cultures, religions, and lifestyles. 165 canals criss-cross the entire city, giving it its nickname ‘Venice of the North.’ The city also features more bikes than inhabitants! With a bustling creative industry, Amsterdam offers plenty of cultural activities and events throughout the year. In Amsterdam you can benefit from the advantages of a big city with enough quiet spots to kick back and relax.

Cost:

1150 EUR. The tuition fee includes: • Airport pick-up service • Welcome goodie bag • Orientation programme • Course excursions • On-site support • Emergency assistance • Transcript of records after completion of the course

Additional Program Information

Scholarships:

Yes

Scholarships Description:

The VU Amsterdam Summer School offers ten scholarships that cover the full tuition and housing fees of one course. Information about how to apply for the scholarship will be posted on the VU Amsterdam Summer School website.