Student Commitment
Teamwork. A defining aspect of the Berkeley-Haas MBA, we hold teamwork in high esteem. Many students claim IBD as their best teamwork experience. The teams are put together such that each person brings a different strength. This diversification ensures that all members are equally valued and respected.
Flexibility. Priorities shift, people leave organizations. Regardless of what happens on your project, we expect you to maintain a willingness to work together to overcome the unexpected.
Open mind. You will likely be working in a country to which you have never traveled and very often in an industry that likewise is new. Fostering an open mind and learning to value new relationships is an integral part of the IBD education.
Eligibility. First year, full-time MBAs are eligible to apply in the fall semester only.
In country. IBD is not a typical class. Yes, you will be in a classroom throughout the spring semester; however, once the semester is finished you will board a plane and spend three weeks in-country from mid-May to early June. Note: You can participate in IBD and still complete a summer internship.
Timeline. IBD is a year-long course. Beginning in the spring semester of your first year, it culminates in the fall semester of your second year with the annual IBD Conference.
Projects. When you apply to IBD, you will have a chance to broadly prioritize where you want to work, whether by continent, sector or language. Note: we cannot guarantee accommodation of your preferences.
Safety. We care about your safety and will not send you to a country that has been issued a travel warning by the US State Department.
Wet Africa
Economic and Environmental Assessment
South Africa
"IBD was certainly one of the most memorable experiences of my life, let alone my MBA career."
— Chad Arkoff, MBA 2011.
