International Food Business

Study mode:On campus Study type:Full-time Languages: English
Foreign:$ 10.2 k / Year(s) Deadline: Jul 1, 2025
251–300 place StudyQA ranking:19188 Duration:4 years

Dalhousie's Faculty of Agriculture and CAH Vilentum University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands have partnered to offer a four-year, double degree International Food Business program. Graduates of this one-of-a-kind program will be awarded two degrees: a Bachelor of Business Administration from CAH Vilentum and a Bachelor of Agriculture inInternational Food Business from Dalhousie.

This exciting double degree program includes a year of international study and two work terms: one in North America and one in Europe. In year one, North American students will study at Dal and European students will study at CAH. Year two is offered in the Netherlands, where both groups of students will study and explore together. This continues in year three when both groups of students study at Dal's Faculty of Agriculture at the Agricultural Campus in Truro, N.S.Students complete year four at their home university.

This four-year "dual degree" program emphasizes its international focus with a one-week orientation early in the first semester, where students from both universities get to know one another while exploring the local food industry. This event has been held in Iceland in the past but in 2016 will likely be in Scotland. This unique program will appeal to students who enjoy studying independently, have an interest in business and are keen to explore the world.

Year 1

  • Introduction to macroeconomics
  • Agricultural and good policy
  • Global politics and the legal environment
  • International food business: issues and developments
  • International food chains and their environment
  • Chain management
  • Logistics and distribution
  • International food trade
  • Food quality and safety
  • Introduction to microeconomics
  • Business task environment
  • Business management
  • Business finance
  • Operations management
  • Making management decisions
  • Information and communication
  • Marketing communication
  • Consumer behaviour and culture
  • Emerging international media and techniques

Year 2

  • New product development process
  • Process of entrepreneurship
  • Business start up or acquisition
  • Business law
  • Primary and secondary data
  • Design and methodology
  • Marketing research project
  • Product/service management
  • Pricing theory and application
  • Transportation and storage
  • Wholesaling and retailing
  • International marketing
  • European Work Placement

Year 3

  • Leadership theory and practice
  • Human resources theory and practice
  • Management decision-making
  • Purpose
  • Form and structure
  • Business planning
  • Financial accounting
  • Financial management
  • Managerial accounting
  • Budgeting and control
  • North American work placement

Year 4

Please note that the courses you take in the fourth year will depend on the specialization subjects you choose. List of specializations:

  • Development Studies
  • Environmental Studies
  • Economic Studies
  • Agronomy Studies
  • Animal Studies
  • Horticultural Studies
  • Management Studies
  • Organic Agricultural Studies
  • Quantitative Methods Studies
  • other areas, as available

Requirements

  • Completion of secondary school (i.e. Grade 12) with a minimum overall average of 70% in five academic Grade 12 courses
  • A final grade of at least 70% in Grade 12 English and 75% In Math
  • Certificate of Secondary Education and Unified State Examination (USE)
  • If your first language is not English, you may be required to provide proof of English language proficiency. TOEFL 237 (computer-based), 90 (iBT) and no lower than 20 in each band. IELTS 6.5 overall and no lower than 6.0 in each band
  • Online application
  • Transcripts

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

  • ✔️ Flexible study schedule
  • ✔️ Experienced teachers
  • ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Financing studies for the International Food Business program at Dalhousie University are designed to support students financially throughout their academic journey. Prospective students are encouraged to explore various funding options, including scholarships, bursaries, and external grants. Dalhousie University offers a range of merit-based scholarships specifically for undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in business-related programs, which can significantly offset tuition costs. Additionally, students are advised to investigate governmentstudent aid programs applicable to their domicile, such as federal and provincial student loans, which provide low-interest financing for eligible students. The university's Financial Aid Office provides comprehensive guidance on applying for these loans and scholarships, ensuring students are informed about deadlines and application procedures. Some students may also consider external funding sources such as industry-sponsored fellowships, private scholarships, or grants from food industry organizations, which often target students pursuing careers in international food business and related fields. Part-time work opportunities on campus may be available to help students supplement their income during their studies, and work-integrated learning components within the program may offer paid internships or cooperative education placements. It is advisable for students to develop a detailed financial plan before commencing their studies and to contact the university's financial services to explore all available options. Moreover, international students should review specific scholarships or financial aid programs designated for international learners, which may have different criteria and application procedures. Overall, while Dalhousie University provides various financial support mechanisms, securing adequate funding requires proactive planning and engagement with relevant university offices and external organizations.

The International Food Business program at Dalhousie University is designed to prepare students for successful careers in the global food industry by providing comprehensive education in food production, marketing, management, and international trade. This program emphasizes understanding the complexities of the global food supply chain, including food safety regulations, quality assurance, and sustainable practices. Students develop skills in business management, logistics, and negotiations, with a particular focus on cross-cultural communication and international market dynamics. The curriculum typically includes courses in marketing strategies, supply chain management, food policy, and international business law. Students may also gain practical experience through internships and cooperative education opportunities with industry partners, which allow them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. The program aims to equip graduates with the ability to analyze market trends, develop innovative solutions for food security challenges, and implement sustainable practices in food production and distribution. With an interdisciplinary approach, students learn about nutrition, agricultural practices, and the economic factors influencing global food systems. The program also promotes awareness of cultural differences and ethical considerations in international trade, preparing students to navigate the complexities of global markets responsibly. Dalhousie University’s strong connections with industry stakeholders support networking and career development, enabling students to pursue opportunities in various sectors such as food manufacturing, retail, export agencies, and food consulting firms. Upon graduation, students are prepared to work in roles that require strategic planning, policy development, and operational management within the international food industry. The program is suitable for students interested in combining business acumen with a passion for food and sustainability, offering a pathway to impactful careers in a vital and ever-evolving sector.

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