WHU European Summer Program


Image of Vallendar, Germany
Study the international business environment in Europe‘s largest national economy.
Location: Vallendar, Germany
Language of Instruction: English
Term: Summer
Academic Disciplines: Business
Program Type: Summer Non-Faculty Led
Open to non-KU Students: No
Fulfills KU Core 4.2: No
Fulfills KU Core 5: No

  • Gain insights into the international business environment of Europe.
  • Earn 3 KU credits during this three week program conducted in English.
  • Experience life in a picturesque German city along the Rhine River.

Spend three weeks at one of Germany's most prestigious business schools studying the political and economic environment in Europe and its impact on business in the region. The WHU Bachelor European Summer Program explores topics such as trade and monetary integration in Europe and the EU, how to compete in European markets, business strategy, luxury brand management, operations management in Europe, and cultural aspects of doing business in Europe. Interspersed with academic lectures, case studies, and group work, the program integrates cultural experiences and practical business examples including industry site visits.

Amenities of this program include single rooms in modern student accommodations near the campus, a welcome reception, provided lunches, field trips, bus ticket, 24-hour gym access, on-campus WiFi, library access, and a farewell dinner. 

The campus of WHU is located in Vallendar in picturesque western Germany, overlooking the Rhine and Moselle Rivers.  Vallendar is a suburb of the 2,000-year-old town of Koblenz. Koblenz has an abundance of cultural monuments and historic buildings and the area is framed by four low mountain ranges, offering ample opportunity for outdoor activities. Students can explore the cozy lanes and narrow alleyways of Koblenz and Vallendar, walk the river promenades, and take a boat cruise up and down the Rhine River. The relaxed and happy atmosphere make Koblenz and Vallendar a friendly area where students will feel immediately at home.

Vallendar is centrally located in Europe, making travel to other European cities and countries accessible. WHU is located about one hour from Cologne (Köln) and one hour from Frankfurt, known as the financial and business centers of Germany and the fourth and fifth largest cities in the country.

During this three week program, students will take one course: The Business, Political and Cultural Environment in Europe. The course includes lectures, group work, industry site visits, and cultural activities and is taught by top practitioners and subject experts. Upon successful completion of the program, students receive credit for IBUS 400: Special Topics in International Business for 3 KU credits.The course covers the following topics:

  • Trade Integration in Europe and the European Union
  • Monetary Integration in Europe: The Euro as Europe‘s Common Currency
  • Competing in European Markets
  • Operations Management in Europe – Embracing Sustainability
  • Business Environment and Strategies of Foreign Direct Investment
  • European Aspects of Marketing
  • Cultural Competence in Europe

Learn more at the program website: Bachelor European Summer Program

WHU - Otto Beisheim School of Management is a small, private business school dedicated to preparing students for productive careers in business. Founded in 1984, WHU is a modern institution that embraces cutting edge research and teaching methods. With a student body numbering approximately 1200, class sizes are small and students receive a highly interactive, student-centered learning experience.  Course instruction emphasizes cooperative, practice-oriented work. WHU partners with over 200 universities worldwide and is committed to being an international institution at the forefront of business education in Europe.

WHU provides comfortable, modern accommodations in student apartments within easy walking distance of the WHU campus. Each student will have a single room and can choose from options ranging from a single room apartment to a single room in a shared apartment. Students register for housing once they have been accepted to the program.

2024 Dates

  • Depart US: May 25
  • Arrival day: May 26.  Airport pickup at the Frankfurt Airport (Meeting Point Terminal 1) is arranged for May 26 between 10:00-11:00 AM.  Students may opt to arrive the night before and stay in a hotel or hostel in Frankfurt (WHU can provide accommodation recommendations).
  • Departure day: June 15

Dress code is smart casual for classes and business casual for company visits and events. 

SAGE is dedicated to creating international engagement opportunities that meet the needs of all our students and providing resources to support you through the process of studying abroad. Study abroad is achievable for students of all identities including our BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ students, students with disabilities, and students with religious/non-religious viewpoints. Before selecting a program, consider how your identities may impact your experience abroad in unique ways and talk with your Program Coordinator about any program-specific concerns. Students with documented disabilities should discuss any accommodation needs with their Program Coordinator early in the planning process.

Considerations for Germany

Germany has laws in place to protect ethnic and religious minorities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, the differently abled, and other groups. Same-sex marriage is available in Germany and most large city governments officially encourage and host LGBTQIA+ pride events.

Germany’s cities and public transportation are generally accessible to individuals with disabilities.  Older sections of the cities and smaller towns may be less accessible due to centuries-old architecture, cobblestone streets, and small indoor spaces. Germany offers services for people who are mobility, sight, or hearing impaired.

Source: U.S. Department of State country information pages and Diversity Abroad.

Additional Resources

Check our Identity Abroad page and resources listed below for information specific to you and other students who may be on your program.

Open to KU undergraduate students who have a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA. There is no language requirement as all coursework will be taught in English.

Scholarships may be available for study abroad programs.  Consult the Center for Global Business Studies website for more information on study abroad scholarships for business students. For general study abroad scholarship information, consult the Study Abroad & Global Engagement website.

Learn more about the WHU Summer Institute:

WHU Summer Institute



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