Winter Field Study: Brazil - Culture, Society, and Business
Brazil: Culture, Society, and Business
Trade winter in Florida for summer in Rio de Janeiro. This faculty-led field study takes Rollins students to one of the world's most vibrant cities for an immersive short-term study abroad experience that blends global business, Brazilian culture, and real-world professional engagement. From conversations with business owners and executives to sweeping views from Sugar Loaf Mountain, you'll explore the challenges and opportunities facing Brazil's people, government, and companies—and come home with new perspective and confidence.
Program Highlights
- Location: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Term: Winter Break (January)
- Program Length: Approximately 1 week
- Course: BUS 390F or INT 390F
- Related Majors & Minors: Business Management, International Business, Social Entrepreneurship
- Financial Aid & Scholarships: Need-based scholarships are available to help offset the costs associated with field studies.
Itinerary Highlights
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Meet the People Behind the Business
Go inside companies across Rio de Janeiro—from a national media group and a global music label to small, locally owned businesses. Meet with owners and professionals, practice your business etiquette, and compare how Brazilian and U.S. firms approach strategy, leadership, and growth.
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Explore Rio's Iconic Landmarks
Stand beneath Christ the Redeemer, ride up Sugar Loaf Mountain for sweeping views of the city, and explore the Museu do Amanhã, Rio's striking museum of science and the future. Each stop adds context to Brazil's history, identity, and place in the Western Hemisphere.
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Experience Rio Like a Local
Paddleboard through Rio's waterways, relax on Ipanema, Recreio, and Copacabana beaches, and immerse yourself in the rhythms of Brazilian daily life. You'll stay in a Rio hotel throughout the program, close to the city's culture, food, and energy.
Meet Your Faculty Leader: Dr. Kip Kiefer
“Each year, I find it incredibly rewarding to watch students grow as they experience a new culture firsthand. Seeing their perspectives expand, in real time, as they interact with people, businesses, and communities in another country is truly powerful.” — Dr. Kip Kiefer
Dr. Kip Kiefer is a Professor of Business at Rollins College, where he teaches Global Business Strategy—the business program's capstone course—and directs the Master of Human Resources program. His research examines strategic management, human resources, and entrepreneurship, especially new venture creation, opportunity recognition, and entrepreneurial ecosystems.
Before joining Rollins, Dr. Kiefer served more than 21 years as a U.S. Air Force officer in acquisitions program management, with assignments ranging from large-scale space launch programs to emerging technology and unmanned aerial vehicles. He brings that strategic lens to Rio, helping students connect history, culture, and business in one of Latin America's most dynamic cities.
Education: BS, United States Air Force Academy; MBA, University of Arizona; PhD, University of Colorado Boulder
See Full BioWhy Study Abroad in Brazil?
See Global Business Up Close
Brazil is Latin America's largest economy and one of the Western Hemisphere's most important neighbors. You'll see how its history and culture shape the way companies compete—and leave with a sharper sense of how global forces influence local decisions.
Get Skills for the Real World
Through direct engagement with business owners and professionals in and around Rio, you'll practice intercultural communication, business etiquette, and networking—skills employers value and that are hard to build in a classroom alone.
Make the Most of Winter Break
Field studies are designed to maximize learning during short-term breaks—no semester commitment required. Earn credit while gaining an international experience that stands out on your resume and in future interviews.
Financial Support Is Available
Partial need-based scholarships ranging from $500 to $2,500 are available to help offset costs. Apply directly through your program application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Rollins field study?
Field studies are short-term, faculty-led study abroad programs typically held during spring break, winter break, or summer. They combine academic coursework with immersive, in-country experiences and are open to eligible Rollins students.
How much does the Brazil: Culture, Society, and Business field study cost?
Field study costs vary by destination, length, and number of credits. Total out-of-pocket costs for Rollins field studies typically range from $3,500 to $6,000, including the program fee and any additional expenses. Partial need-based scholarships of $500–$2,500 are available to help offset costs. For exact pricing for this program, visit the Brazil: Culture, Society, and Business Field Study program details on Via TRM.
What does the program fee include?
The Brazil: Culture, Society, and Business field study fee covers tuition, hotel housing in Rio de Janeiro, meals, excursions, local transportation, administrative fees, international medical insurance, pre-departure advising, and on-site staff support. International airfare is not listed as included, so plan for it separately. See the full list of what's covered for this program in our official study abroad platform, Via TRM.
What students should consider this field study?
This field study is an ideal fit for juniors and seniors studying Business, International Business, or Entrepreneurship—or for anyone curious about how culture and history shape the way business gets done in Latin America. Preference is given to Holt students and intercollegiate athletes. It's also well-suited for students who want to build professional networks and intercultural skills without committing to a full semester abroad. You can learn more and apply in our official study abroad platform, Via TRM.
When does this field study take place?
The Brazil field study takes place during winter break, in early January—summertime in Rio de Janeiro—and lasts about one week. Please visit Via TRM for exact travel dates and application deadlines.
Ready to Apply?
Dive into Brazil's rich culture, dynamic economy, and vibrant communities on this faculty-led field study. Apply on Via TRM to get started.
Apply on Via TRM