The University of Virginia Masters in Global Commerce allows students to study across three continents and receive two degrees and a certificate, all over the course of a year. Because of this the program has been pretty popular among my readers and I have been working hard to get additional information on the program. A couple of weeks ago I was able to post the first student review of this relatively new program. Well I have another one for all of you!
Enjoy!
1) Why an Specialized Masters in general? Why UVA Global MSc specifically?
A specialized master’s program made more sense for my knowledge level and desired skill set than an MBA because I felt that I had already received a strong base understanding of business principles and technical skills as an undergraduate. I chose this program specifically because of the international component. The truly immersive global component of this program enhances the degrees exponentially. I knew that I would receive an excellent education from a UVA backed program, but what really excited me was the opportunities this global program structure provided for advancing my cross cultural communication and adaptation skills. These are skills that are useful in a global business environment, of course, but possibly even more important in a domestic setting. The communication, problem solving, and resilience skills you develop through living abroad and working with people from different cultures and backgrounds provide you with a comprehensive, analytical mindset and outlook that helps you to stand out as an employee in any environment.
2) Who would you recommend this program to?
I would recommend this program to any student with a strong, undergraduate business degree who wishes to further their business education as well as develop more unique skill sets to help them stand out in a competitive business career. The global component is a huge part of this program, and I would recommend it to someone who is curious about the world around them and excited to challenge themselves in order to grow both personally and professionally throughout the year.
3) Pros/Cons (if any)
Pros: The extent of professional and person growth this program provides you with is unavailable in another setting. Additionally, having master’s degrees from two internationally recognized universities as well as experience living in China provides you with a level of credibility and intrigue that sets you apart from most other new hires.
Cons: You are delaying your career start a year (or putting it on hold for a year). I feel it is absolutely worth it, but it is important to put a lot of thought into why you are doing this program in order to get the most out of it. Spending six months living outside of the USA away from friends and family can also be stressful, lonely, and overwhelming at times, you need to be prepared to deal with these emotions.
4) Anything else you want to talk about (alumni, campus experience, recruiting, etc.)
The relationships made in this program are AMAZING!!!! You will have friends, colleagues, and mentors around the world forever. How many 23-25-26 year olds can say that?! I am so excited to see the effects of these relationships build throughout our careers– the possibilities are limitless.
Preview reviews can be found below:
University of Virginia Masters in Global Commerce Student Review
Here is a link to the University of Virginia Masters in Global Commerce Program
