For a perfect balance sheet

Reeturaj Goswami 

A bachelor’s degree programme in commerce from a reputed international universities can prove to be a rewarding one. It usually provides a study of the principles of economics. Some programmes also include fundamentals of global economics, social and cultural awareness, political awareness and policies and languages. 

Lure of an international degree: 

The universities offering a variety of degree courses at under graduate level and complementing it with global exposure and state-of-the-art infrastructure give a headstart to a student’s career. Some of the major destinations for international education for pursuing Bachelor’s in Commerce are:

United Kingdom: The UK’s financial hub London generates as much as 22 per cent of the entire country’s GDP and is home to over 8,40,000 private-sector businesses. Not only the city hosts the world’s number one institution in the recently released business and management ranking, it is also home to 100 of Europe’s largest companies, which means there are ample opportunities for business students. Some of the top business schools in London are London School of Economics, University of London, Brunel University.

New Zealand: The country attracts students as it provides easy entry procedures. It is also very affordable. An emphasis on research and practical learning makes it a favourite among students. University of Auckland, University of Otago, University of Canterbury and University of Wellington are few of the top institutes. The popular University of Auckland provides a complete set of core courses. These include exciting courses in business and enterprise.  

Singapore: Singapore is the world’s fourth-largest financial centre and one of the world’s top-five busiest ports in Asia. It is already gearing up itself to hold a triple-A credit rating. The University of Singapore is popular for its faculty and cross-disciplinary initiatives. The highly entrepreneurial environment helps a student to make herself future-ready.

United States of America: The country has always been one of the most sought after destinations for foreign education. Some of the top universities are Georgia Institute of Technology, MIT, University of Caltech, Washington State University, Michigan State University and Texas A&M University and University of Colorado Denver. 

Australia: Students are selecting Australia for the country’s easy visa process to migrate. Students from different countries in Australia can work up to 20 hours a week and after graduation, they can also benefit from a post-study work visa. The Australian government has initiated a Professional Year Program for all graduates of accounting, information technology and engineering programmes, allowing them to work in a local company. The University of Melbourne provides an in-depth understanding of business issues and processes and their resourcefulness.

Why international universities are  popular?

• Indian students are used to a passive style of learning. At foreign universities, they get to experience a more engaging and active learning style.
• Active learning is a result of various activities like class participation, exchange of dialogues, case studies and practical off and on-campus experience through live projects. 
• Indian job market usually recognises a degree from an international university more than any degree from an Indian counterpart. 
• International education provides a holistic environment that helps a student to learn and grow in her area of specialisation and in-depth interaction with the faculty provides the students a global perspective on an issue.

Admission process 

Admission to any college abroad is through SAT for most of the undergraduate courses.

Students who wish to stick to commerce would typically apply for a Bachelor in Commerce, Bachelor in Economics or in Accounting and Finance. These courses may be offered as a major or minor within business programme. The world subject rankings table does not offer a separate subject option for commerce and lists entries under business management, economics and econometrics. 

—The writer is product head, Pratham Education