This semester study abroad program is designed to provide students - the future leaders in the textile, apparel, and retail industries - with an opportunity to: 1) gain insight into global business dynamics by visiting both U.S. companies’ operations (sourcing, design and product development, sales and marketing, and production) in China and Chinese local businesses; 2) gain an understanding of Chinese culture to facilitate the appreciation of Chinese consumer behavior and business practices; and 3) network with both U.S. textiles and apparel companies in China and Chinese companies for potential internship and employment opportunities. 

ACADEMICS

This program is a collaboration between three educational institutions: NC State University, Fashion Institute of Technology (New York City), and Donghua University (Shanghai, China). A total of thirty (30) undergraduate students will study together during Spring 2018 semester, with a study focus on global textile management and brand marketing with Asian culture and Chinese language. 

PROGRAM FACTS

• Courses
  • Global Merchandising, International Product Development, Global Marketing, Cross-Cultural Studies, Chinese Language 1
• NC State Program Cost
  • $8,500
  • Budget Sheet
• Program Dates
  • March 10 - June 30, 2019
• Locations
  • Shanghai, China
• Contact
  • Dr. Yingjiao Xu, College of Textiles
    yxu11@ncsu.edu
• Eligibility
  • 2.75+ GPA
  • Not on active disciplinary probation
  • Not on Academic Integrity Probation currently or during the prior semester
  • Must be at least sophomore standing

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

1. Earn 12-15 hours credit transferable to academic degree requirements in Fashion and Textile Management

2. Coursework includes:

Global Merchandising (3 credits)
International Product Development (3 credits)
Global Marketing (3 credits)
Cross-Cultural Studies (3 credits)
Business Chinese (3 credits)

3. Visit major U.S. textile and apparel companies’ operations in China

4. Visit major Chinese textile and apparel companies (men’s, women’s, and home textiles)

5. Visit global and Chinese local retailers

6. Begin learning the Chinese language (and practice communication skills with industry and academic personnel)

7. Work collaboratively with FIT and Donghua University students on education and research projects;

8. Tours to explore Shanghai and surrounding cities, such as Suzhou and Hangzhou

9. Cultural events, such as tea tasting, watching an acrobat show, visiting pearl factories…

10. Opportunities to explore the Chinese culture and the marketplace

Check out Bennett Freeman's instagram from his spring 2017 semester in Donghua!

LOCATIONS

The program will be in Shanghai, China, with housing on the Donghua University campus. Students will take classes at Donghua University (Shanghai), visit industry sites in the surrounding Shanghai area, visit U.S. trade and government offices, and explore Shanghai -- to experience the Asian culture and begin learning the Chinese language.

MEALS & ACCOMMODATIONS

While in Shanghai, students will be staying in international student dorms at Donghua University. Rooms are shared between two students. During company visits, students stay in hotels which are 3 stars or above. Students are responsible for their meals, except in some limited circumstances when on certain excursions or trips.

FINANCIAL AID & SCHOLARSHIPS

Financial aid is generally available to help qualified NC State students to meet the expenses of NC State study abroad programs. Students from other institutions should contact their home institution study abroad and financial aid offices for information. For additional funding, NC State students should consider applying for a study abroad scholarship from the Study Abroad Office.