National University of Ireland, Galway has announced new partnerships with a multitude of universities worldwide as part of its new Bachelor of Commerce (Global Experience) program at the J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics.

NUIG currently partners with over 60 universities across the globe across all their business programs.

The new partner universities include Kobe University, Japan; University of Florence, Italy; Pusan National University, Korea; Université du Québec à Montréal, Canada; Karlstad University, Sweden; Susquehanna University, Pennsylvania, US and University of Antwerp, Belgium.

Numbers on the Global Experience program have increased significantly, and NUIG is expecting 135 students will partake in a study abroad during the forthcoming academic year.

As part of the program, students complete modules from all different areas of business in the first two years of the degree. In year three, students undertake a work placement and/or study abroad.

“This degree offers the unique opportunity of a work placement and a study abroad in the same year… [it] is designed to prepare students for the challenges of working in today’s global business environment,” explained program director, Gerard Turley.

Vice-dean of Internationalisation at NUI Galway Ann Torres added that in order to flourish, future business graduates will need to adapt to an ever more global work environment.

“Global business requires globally confident and culturally aware graduates. [This] course responds to the needs of employers and will produce highly sought-after graduates in all areas of business,” she said.

Deloitte has partnered with NUI Galway on the course and will provide funding over five years to support students while studying abroad. Students will also be recognised as ‘Deloitte Global Scholars’.

Managing partner of Deloitte Brendan Jennings said that on a daily basis the company sees the ever-increasing need for international experience and an ability to work across borders.

“Our clients are operating in a more globally connected way than ever before… we are delighted to support the NUIG Deloitte scholars in gaining this important and valuable experience.”