The Space to: Explore

The BRICS Initiative

A core value of the liberal arts education is a global perspective. As a Wofford student, you'll develop an understanding of how you're connected to others throughout the world that goes deeper than an awareness of business and career opportunities overseas. In the global economy, employees with the ability to help their organizations work successfully in other countries and cultures add tremendous value, regardless of the industry. These employees are well versed in the social, political and environmental forces shaping the way we work today. 

The BRICS Initiative is a logical extension of your liberal arts education. You'll learn from an interdisciplinary team of faculty, staff, and in-country experts about a variety of topics, issues, problems, and opportunities regarding the BRICS nations and their increasing significance as global powers. We'll show you how to synthesize these different perspectives into the bigger picture of a rapidly-shifting world. An in-country visit is a major component of the program. And you'll put everything you've learned to work for the community by participating in a one-day conference for local and regional businesses with an interest in the BRICS nations. Your resume will be chock full o' relevant and marketable travel, education, and project experience.

Still with us? Sounding good? Here are some specifics: 

Who may participate?  

All students are welcome to participate, but Freshmen, and Sophomores will have the most time left to visit several countries. 

Is it a major? A minor?  

You can't major or minor in BRICS. You'll receive Interim course credit for the portion of the program occurring during January (see the calendar), but the rest of what you do as a BRICS Initiative participant will be in addition to your regular coursework. Think of BRICS as the ultimate side dish complimenting the perfect entree. The two together make one heck of a satisfying meal (nom, nom!).

What will be expected of me?     

Check out the calendar to see the general program schedule. It will give you a good idea of what we'll be doing and when. >>  

Tell me more about the TRAVEL!  

The travel component really sets the Wofford program apart. Each summer, we'll spend two weeks visiting one of the BRICS countries. You'll participate in the culture, get in-depth instruction in governmental processes, visit ports, go inside businesses and start-ups, and anything else we think you should see. In 2014, we're heading to Brazil. In 2015, it will be China. In 2016, Russia. That's as far into the future as we can comfortably predict at this point (remember, rapidly-shifting world!).

Is BRICS a multi-year commitment?  

Not at all. We've designed the program so that you'll get an excellent introduction to all of the countries, and then very specific knowledge of a single country during the in-country visit each year (see above for the trip schedule). Participate during the year that most interests you, or participate each year. It's up to you.

How much does the program cost?  

$5,900 ($1,000 for on-campus Interim; $4,900 for travel to Brazil) includes all course fees, materials, travel and accommodations, and most meals in-country. Scholarships are available!  

How do I participate?     

Space is limited to 12 participants, and we want one of them to be you. Check out the "apply" page for complete details, including scholarship instructions.