The United States continues to be a global center for business education, says Barron Harvey

Each year, millions of new students travel to the US to study business at the more than 4,000 post secondary educational institutions, which offer programs in business and management education.   With the United States being the home of many of the world's leading multi-national corporations, many international students choose to study here to gain business expertise prior to returning home to create or run local businesses.  Over the past two decades, the pursuit of business education has become one of the most popular fields of study internationally.

It is important to note that quality business programs exist throughout the United States in a variety of formats.  As such, prior to enrolling in an institution, students should conduct significant research and seek accredited universities or colleges with separate accredited business schools or programs.  The highest accredited business programs and schools have accreditation from the AACSB-International – The Association for the Advancement of Collegiate Schools of Business.  These schools and programs are highly valued and respected worldwide.

Business education programs offer flexible models that can meet most students' needs.  The programs are offered in the traditional classroom setting, through online delivery methods and include full-time and part-time options.  In addition, in business, there are many specialized fields of study (majors or areas of concentration) available. Most business programs allow students to acquire information in all major disciplines.  Business education is not vocational education.  Quality programs require students to have a well rounded education and liberal arts courses make up at least 50% of the requirements for a bachelor's degree in a four year program.  Successful students will have developed superior oral and written communication skills, analytical and quantitative skills, and have an appreciation for the humanities and the arts.

With the advent of the technology age, computer proficiency has become an integral part of business education.  Most business schools have infused technology and technological tools throughout their programs. Students studying business within the United States must become familiar with various forms of technology (hardware, and software applications) since it is a fundamental part of the learning process. 

Portable technology (laptops and hand-held devices) has become a mainstay on university campuses. At major business schools, students not only study traditional subjects of business and liberal arts, but also receive significant training in leadership and professional skills.  Effective teams are crucial for success in major corporations.  As such, many reputable business programs develop activities requiring student teams.  Developing teamwork skills and understanding how to interact effectively with others is emphasized in many programs.  Other areas of emphasis in business schools include:

• Cultural diversity
• Corporate culture
• Personal finance
• Ethics
• Strategic planning
• Effective networking skills
• The art of negotiation

International students considering study in United States should:

• Become familiar with United States immigration laws related to college study.
• Understand the American education system and how it differs from their respective home system.  The US system is quarterly or semester based (Fall and Spring) and use a 4.0 grading system.
• Cost and financial aid – Financial aid at most schools and colleges is usually restricted to US Citizens and Residents.  International students should ensure a reliable source of funds prior to enrolling in US schools and colleges.  Usually, the US Government requires appropriate funding support prior to granting a student visa.
• Employment – To study within the United States, international students require a student visa.  Student visas are issued solely for study, and there are restrictions on employment opportunities. 
• Full-time Enrolment – International students are required to enroll full-time in school.

The benefits derived from studying business within the United States are significant.  A business degree from an accredited educational institution within the United States is highly recognized in many countries.  International students, with US business degrees are highly recognized and placed in advantageous positions. They are able to successfully compete with others and command significantly higher income.  Not only are International students benefiting from their exposure to America's leading edge technology, but they are also exposed to varying cultures; exposure that enables them to effectively communicate across varying cultures.  Effective communication across cultures is highly important in an increasingly global environment.  International students are further empowered by the accessibility of numerous mentors, who are among a pool of experts committed to the success of these students. 

Finally, since the curriculum embodies a wide array of subject areas, upon completing their business degrees within the United States, international students receive a well-rounded education.         

Barron H. Harvey is Dean of the School of Business at Howard University in Washington, DC