Elective Courses

Business Planning for International Markets (BPIM) – Japan

The BPIM-Japan elective equips students with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved in establishing and managing businesses in international markets, with a focus on Japan. This program is designed to provide hands-on experience in navigating the unique cultural, economic, and regulatory challenges of Japanese business environments.

Program Objective: BPIM-Japan allows students to develop strategies for successful business creation and expansion in culturally distinct markets, with a focus on Japan’s distinct corporate landscape.
Immersion Experience: In Semester 5/6, a group of 25 students will embark on a one- to two-week immersion in Japan. This immersive experience offers students the opportunity to engage directly with Japanese businesses, interact with local entrepreneurs, and understand the practical applications of their classroom learnings.

Through BPIM-Japan, students gain valuable insights into global market entry strategies, intercultural dynamics, and Japan’s position in international business.

Understanding Contemporary Japan – A Nation in Transition (UCJ)

Newly introduced in 2024, this elective course delves into the significant shifts Japan is undergoing as it redefines its identity in the age of Society 5.0. Designed for Postgraduate Program (PGP) students, this course offers an in-depth analysis of how Japan is evolving in the wake of economic stagnation and the “lost decades” following the 1990s economic bubble collapse.

Focus Areas: The course examines “Japan Inc.” and its reinvention efforts to align with Society 5.0—a vision for a super-smart society that integrates technological innovation with social transformation. Students will study how Japan is tackling challenges in an era marked by rapid technological advancements, demographic shifts, and changing global demands.
Evolution of Management Practices: The course also explores the transformation of traditional Japanese management methods, assessing how they adapt to contemporary needs for innovation and flexibility. Through case studies and discussions, students will learn how Japanese organizations balance heritage with modernity to stay competitive.

“Understanding Contemporary Japan” provides students with a nuanced view of Japan’s socio-economic evolution, fostering a critical perspective on how traditional practices can adapt in a forward-looking economy.