No more than 6 credits in lower-division business courses beyond the 19 required above may be counted as general elective credits toward the bachelor's degree. In addition, the last 45 credits must be completed in residence. An adviser must approve any exceptions. Students interested in careers with firms that have an international focus can enhance their BABA with a Certificate of International Studies in Business. The program requires intensive language training, cultural studies, experience abroad in academic exchange programs or corporate internships, and a practicum helping local firms explore international markets.
Admission is competitive.
The curriculum and activities required in this program focus on the technical and managerial skills students need to start a new business or join an organization as an agent of change and new development. Working closely with PEI faculty and advisors from the corporate community, entrepreneurial undergraduates run an import-export business clinic and participate in a business plan competition where their plans are judged by a panel of venture capitalists, bankers, and investors. Some students have businesses up and running prior to graduation. Admission is open to students throughout the University of Washington, both undergraduates and graduate students. Retail growth in recent years has created a high demand for qualified retail managers.