Japan – Acumen Abroad – MSLE 3890 (Strategy)

If you have any questions, you can contact huntsmanglobal@usu.edu.

We invite you to join us in Japan to engage in an immersive study abroad program focused on strategic problem-solving. This program integrates experiential learning opportunities with case studies of renowned companies like Nintendo, Toyota, Uniqlo, and Disney. You will observe customer interactions and analyze companies' strategies and operations to gain practical insights into Japanese business practices.

Extending beyond the classroom, this 3-week experience allows you to discover Japan, from its ancient traditions to its cutting-edge technology to its unique pop culture (e.g. anime, manga, karaoke, themed cafes, etc.). The program starts in Tokyo and then moves to Kyoto, home of 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, for the final two weeks. In addition to daily classes and field assignments, you will have ample time to explore ancient temples and serene gardens, shop in bustling markets, walk along the Kamo river, hike to mountain vistas, and explore diverse cuisines at some of the best restaurants in the world. You are also encouraged to go early or stay after the program ends and enjoy more of Japan on your own.

By participating in this immersive experience that combines academic rigor with cultural exploration, you will gain insights into intercultural communication and the nuances of global commerce, preparing you for a career in an increasingly interconnected world. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to complete a required business acumen course, MSLE 3890 (Systems Strategy and Problem Solving), in the Land of the Rising Sun! This is the perfect time to visit Japan because of historically favorable exchange rates (i.e., it’s more affordable than it has been in decades), but space is limited, so apply now. Non-business majors are also encouraged to apply.

Passport Requirement

You must have a current passport that does not expire before December 31, 2027 to participate in this program. If you need to get a passport or renew your passport, you must submit an EXPEDITED application by October 31, 2026 and provide proof of submission (an expedited application can take 6-7 weeks, with mailing time). If you just have to renew your passport, you can renew it online at https://travel.state.gov.

The USU Card Office in the TSC can assist you (appointment required).

An uploaded copy of your passport or proof of expedited application is due by October 31, 2026. This is REQUIRED.

Any questions, contact huntsmanglobal@usu.edu

Program Dates

Application Deadline: Saturday, October 31, 2026
Spring Semester: Required enrollment In BUS 2000: FOUNDATION INTL PROG-JAPAN during the second half of spring semester (0.5 credits) - taught on TBD (section TBD and CRN TBD)
Summer Semester: Required enrollment in Japan MSLE 3890 during the summer semester (2 credits, regular tuition is credited towards program cost, section and CRN TBA)
Travel Dates: May 17 – June 5, 2027 (depart USA on Monday, May 17 to arrive in Tokyo, Japan on Tuesday, May 18 and depart Tokyo on Saturday, June 5, to follow individual itinerary)

Program Requirements

Business majors must complete the prerequisite courses (ACCT 2020, FIN 3200, and MSLE 3500). Non-business majors will enroll in MSLE 4800, with MSLE 3890 prerequisites waived.
Good academic standing
Minimum GPA of 2.75
Submission of a complete application
Submission of a copy of passport by October 31, 2026 OR proof of a submitted expedited passport application
Interview with program leader (to be scheduled once application is submitted)
Mandatory enrollment in BUS 2000: FOUNDATION INTL PROG-JAPAN during the second half of spring semester (0.5 credit) – TBD (section TBD and CRN TBD)
Mandatory enrollment in MSLE 3890 during the summer semester (2 credits, regular tuition is credited towards program cost, CRN and section # TBA, section # will be a 500 number that designates a study abroad course)
Ability to walk 60-90 minutes at a time, including on uneven surfaces. Ability to walk up stairs as elevators or escalators may not be available in buildings, metro stations, or cultural sites. If accommodation is needed, contact the USU Disability Resource Center.

Program Costs

$3,200 (current estimate)
Participants purchase own airfare
Differential tuition NOT included, approx. $450

What does the program cost include?

Please read carefully!

Includes: $200 program deposit, shared program-arranged accommodations, welcome and farewell dinners, cultural experiences, business visits, medical/evacuation insurance, regular tuition for 2 credits during summer semester for MSLE 3890, classroom facilities with Wi-Fi, admin costs.
Does NOT include: Differential tuition (approx. $450), travel to/from SLC airport, airfare to/from Japan, airport-hotel transfers, daily meals, in-country transportation from city to city and local ($500 on avg), Wi-Fi or other connectivity outside the classroom facilities, spring BUS 2000 course credit, personal activities and expenses including weekend travel while in Japan, and any other personal expenses not detailed above.

If you require assistance purchasing your airfare, please contact our office at huntsmanglobal@usu.edu.

Scholarship Opportunities

Apply Now! You do not need to be admitted to a Global Learning program before applying for scholarships. We encourage students to apply for scholarships as soon as they submit their program application. Scholarship applications are processed in the order they are received, and funding is limited. Scholarships will be awarded days before the program withdrawal deadline on December 11, 2026.

Huntsman Opportunity Scholarship

All students with a declared major in the Huntsman School of Business and who have a minimum GPA of 2.75 are eligible to apply for a Huntsman Opportunity Scholarship. Scholarships are competitive and not guaranteed. Applicants are encouraged to be thoughtful and intentional in their responses to the short essay questions. Students are encouraged to not delay their application.

Opportunity Scholarship Overview

Liz Allred & JP Spicer-Escalante Global Scholarship

Business and/or Spanish majors and/or minors with a minimum GPA of 3.0 are eligible to apply for an Allred-Spicer-Escalante Global Scholarship. Scholarships are competitive and awards vary.

Global Scholarship Overview

Applications

Applications Open: Tuesday, September 15, 2026

Application Deadline: Saturday, October 31, 2025

Apply Now

Program Deposit: A $200 program deposit will be posted to your Banner account within three business days of submitting your application. Payment is due as soon as the deposit is posted and must be paid before you can be accepted into a program. If you are not selected to participate in a program the deposit will be refunded.

Final withdrawal from program without penalty is Friday, December 11, 2026.

Once accepted, it is your responsibility to notify us if you decide not to participate. You may withdraw from the program without penalty through December 11, 2026. After this date, your $200 deposit will become non-refundable and you will be responsible for the full program cost. We will begin making non-refundable program commitments shortly after this deadline, so your commitment to participate is considered final at that time.

Please contact huntsmanglobal@usu.edu with any questions.

Travel

Monday, May 17	Depart for Tokyo, Japan, follow individual itinerary
Tuesday, May 18	Arrive in Tokyo, get settled in
Wednesday, May 19	Class, Visits in Tokyo
Thursday, May 20	Disney Sea
Friday, May 21	Visits in Tokyo, Sumo show
Saturday, May 22-Sunday, May 23	Free weekend, transfer to Kyoto
Monday, May 24-Friday, May 28	Morning class, Afternoon study/free time
Saturday, May 29- Sunday, May 30	Free weekend
Monday, May 31 - Friday, June 4	Morning class, Afternoon study/free time
Saturday, June 5	End of program, follow individual itinerary

Lodging

Students will share a twin room for 2 people.

Visa

Tourist visas are not required for US citizens to enter Japan for stays of up to 90 days.
International students may be required to obtain a visa to enter Japan. Travel to consulates to submit the visa application could be required. Students would apply for the visa 2-3 months in advance. If you are an international student, please contact our office at huntsmanglobal@usu.edu to get additional visa information.

Contact Information