Throughout the curriculum and in accordance with their continent choices, students at 3A acquire knowledge of key economic areas.

Several forecasts show that, in the next 50 years, the BRICS countries (BRAZIL, RUSSIA, INDIA, CHINA AND SOUTH AFRICA) could become the dominant forces in the global economy. These five emerging countries, some of which have natural resources and very large work forces, have been able to develop their major technological capacities. Certain already play an important role in global trade and international finance.

With such an outlook, it is essential that 3A students develop extensive knowledge of these countries.

Why International Relations and BRICS?

This group of countries, originally composed of Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRIC), does not constitute a formal organization. However, BRIC reflects the thesis according to which these four countries will become the major economic powers in the next few decades, replacing the current economic powers (the United States, Europe and Japan).

South Africa can be easily added to this group (hence the name BRICS), because its future characteristics are very similar to those of the other four countries.

The 5th Year International Relations and Affairs:
The BRICS fifth year, starting in September 2008, was designed in response to the need for future international managers to understand the developments and characteristics of the international economic scene, while stressing the necessary skills in the areas of Supply Chain Management and Outsourcing and Purchasing.

Educational Objectives

• The objective is to acquire the strategic and managerial knowledge necessary for to business and related to the emergence of the BRICS countries.
• Students learn and develop and/or enhance their knowledge of international management, international relations and sustainable development in relation to the BRICS countries. They also integrate into their professional practices an adapted vision of the international economy of the 21st century and the new emerging economic players.

Educational Objectives

• International Buyer
• Outsourcer
• International Relations Officer
• Logistics Manager
• Negotiator of International Affairs
• Offshorer
• Business Intelligence Auditor
• Forwarding Agent
• Project Manager and Director of International Offices
• Sustainable Development Manager

Career Focus

International Buyer, BRICS Region

Working particularly in the BRICS region, these international buyers supply companies by looking for suppliers and by offering the best combination of quality, price and lead time. After performing a study, they establish specifications and call for bids. They put different suppliers in competition, negotiate terms and conditions and execute purchasing contracts.

They have a Bachelors of Masters in business or an M.B.A., and are qualified to work in international business management. They have excellent international knowledge in the areas of business, law and marketing. They speak foreign languages are familiar with logistics.

Required skills: good knowledge of international markets, sense of negotiation, rigorous and analytical spirit, willingness to travel.

Candidate Profile:

- Any candidate having completed four years of higher education, particularly in the fields of business, political science, economics, management and/or development, etc.

- This 5th year is also designed for managers who wish to supplement their knowledge and hone their skills in these particular areas.

Download presentation of the BRICS 5th year