Winter Faculty-led Program in Morocco & Spain

Course: BUS 2100: Global Skills (3 credit hours) 

• This is a UNIFI: Human Condition category course. It can count as a general education UNIFI elective credit under the category of Connect.
• Talk to your academic advisor about how this course would work for you!
• The Study Abroad Center will enroll participants in the course.
• Students planning to participate in the fall commencement ceremony in December can enroll in this winter term program, however, their degree will not be conferred until the end of the winter term and is contingent on the successful completion of the program and all required coursework.
• No prerequisites. All majors welcome. Participation in this program requires several class meetings during the fall semester, although the course is scheduled as a winter session course. Please contact the program's course leaders for more information on academic requirements.  

Combines cultural immersion with practical techniques to develop the interpersonal competency necessary to work effectively with individuals from around the world. This course is designed to provide students with a hands-on learning experience to enhance their knowledge and capability of working in a culture different from their own. Getting practical experience in a culture and society with profound historical roots provides insights for adapting to various cultures. Having an understanding of that culture, as well as the skills for working with international citizens in a wide range of situations, provides UNI students an advantage when seeking career opportunities. 

Students will study the business environment in Spain and Morocco, including the current state of affairs and historical context in the global economy. This will include discussions of historical and current economic and business environments, cultural influences, and more. Students will learn how to conduct business in Spain and Morocco and will gain awareness of the influence of culture on important aspects of living and conducting business.

Course Leaders: Atul Mitra & Mary Connerley

Mary Connerley, Professor

Department: Wilson College of Business, Associate Dean
Campus Address: CBB 325

Dr. Mary Connerley, a seasoned academic with extensive international experience, has played a pivotal role in fostering global connections for the Wilson College of Business. Her extensive travels across 35 countries demonstrate her commitment to international education and cultural exchange. As a co-leader of faculty-led programs to the United Arab Emirates in January 2025 and 2026, and to Greece in May 2022 and 2026 (two of these with Dr. Mitra), Dr. Connerley facilitated an enriching educational experience for students, allowing them to immerse themselves in new cultures with distinct business practices. Furthermore, her involvement in accompanying UNI students to countries such as South Africa, Russia, Poland, Italy, and China underscores her dedication to providing diverse learning opportunities. By exposing students to various cultural contexts and business environments, Dr. Connerley enriches their educational journey and equips them with a global perspective essential for success in today's interconnected world.

Atul Mitra, Professor

Department: Wilson College of Business; Department Head and Professor of Management
Campus Address: CBB 233

Ready to step outside the classroom and onto the global stage? This immersive journey through Morocco and Spain isn’t just a study abroad program, it’s a high-impact accelerator for your international career. You will go beyond the textbook as you learn about global business operations through specialized lectures on topics including Islamic Finance, Morocco’s strategic free trade zones and the dynamics of informal business practices within traditional medinas. Real growth happens at the edge of your comfort zone, which is why you will immediately put your new skills to the test with a scavenger hunt through the bustling markets of Rabat. Business intelligence requires deep cultural context, and throughout this unforgettable journey, you will witness exactly how history drives modern innovation as you marvel at the architectural wonder of Casablanca’s Hassan II Mosque, scale the heights of Málaga’s 11th-century Alcazaba, trek by camel along the Atlantic coastline, and feel the raw energy of a live Flamenco performance in Spain. Don't just study the global economy. Live it.

Studying abroad offers rich cultural immersion, but it may also involve unfamiliar sensory experiences. You might encounter new sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and environmental conditions that differ significantly from what you're used to. These can be exciting but also overwhelming for some individuals, especially those with sensory sensitivities. We encourage all participants to approach these experiences with curiosity and adaptability. If you have sensory sensitivities or specific concerns, please reach out to program staff.

Students will stay in hotels arranged by the Study Abroad Center while abroad. The cost of these hotels are included in the "Program Cost" line item of the program cost estimate. A few meals are built into the "Program Cost". Students will pay for the remaining meals out-of-pocket while traveling and are encouraged to try the local foods

Health Preparation for Studying Abroad

Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity, but it also requires careful planning—especially when it comes to your health. To ensure a safe and successful experience, we strongly recommend talking to your healthcare provider early. At the time you are selecting your study abroad program, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider or specialist to discuss:

• Medication Legality: Some prescription and over-the-counter medications that are legal in the U.S. may be restricted or illegal in other countries. Your provider can help you determine if your medications are permitted in your destination and suggest alternatives if needed.
• Chronic Conditions or Health Concerns: Discuss how your health needs might be affected by travel, climate, time zone changes, or access to care abroad.
• Mental Health Support: If you are currently receiving mental health care, talk with your provider about how to maintain support while abroad.

These appointments can be held at the UNI Student Health Clinic. For more information on their services, please visit their website.

Accessibility & Study Abroad

If you are a student with a disability or accessibility concern, whether related to mobility, learning, mental health, chronic health conditions, or other needs, we encourage you to connect with Student Accessibility Services (SAS) as early as possible, ideally during the program selection process. Early communication allows our team to understand your specific needs and preferences and explore available accommodations in your host country.

Accessibility resources and standards can vary widely by country, so advance planning is essential to help us advocate for your needs and create a positive, inclusive experience abroad.

Reach out to Student Accessibility Services to start a conversation. The sooner we know, the more we can do to support you.

A faculty-led study abroad program combines academic learning with cultural immersion, guided by university faculty. Students earn credit through hands-on experiences and site visits tailored to the destination. The program fosters a strong sense of community through shared housing, group activities, and cultural events, creating lasting bonds among participants. This type of program has limited individual free time and days will be spent primarily with other group members. If you are interested in a more individualized program experience, we encourage you to check out our partner university summer school opportunities.

Study abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be challenged by new experiences in new environments and cultures. UNI study abroad programs are designed to prioritize educational opportunities for students. Students are encouraged to embrace the adventure of exploring how housing, meals, and daily routines differ abroad.

Entry & Exit Requirements 

Review and follow the travel recommendations of the U.S. State Department for travel to Spain and Morocco.

The Study Abroad Center reserves the right to determine participants' eligibility to study abroad. Students must have a completed study abroad application, including supportive recommendation form(s). View eligibility requirements.