Accounting and Economics Trip to Orange County, Orlando, Florida

Students enrolled on the following programmes are eligible to apply for this opportunity:

• BSc Accounting and Finance
• BSc Accounting with Business Management
• BSc Economics
• BSc Business Economics
• BA Politics and International Relations
• MSc Accounting and Finance
• MSc Economics

There is a maximum of 30 places available, with a minimum of 15 participants required for this opportunity to take place. Students are recommended to check the eligibility criteria before applying.

Trip description

The DMU Global trip to Florida offers Accounting and Economics students an invaluable opportunity to explore fiscal sustainability, tax policy, and public expenditure through real-world examples and professional interactions.

Orange County: As a leading center for tourism and a premier business hub, Orange County welcomed 74 million visitors in 2023, generating an $87.6 billion economic impact. Students will visit the budgeting chambers to discuss the county’s budget and fiscal sustainability with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, Orange County Government. This visit provides a practical learning experience in government budgeting and fiscal policies, with a specific focus on the economic influence of the tourism industry.

University of Central Florida (UCF): At UCF, students will attend guest lectures and participate in a campus tour. A key highlight of the visit will be a student mini-conference, where DMU students will present their work to their UCF counterparts and engage in discussions with UCF students specialising in tax and government finance. This collaboration includes academic exchange and networking opportunities, enhancing the students’ understanding of public finance and international perspectives. Additionally, we will visit the doctoral college at UCF, offering our postgraduate students the chance to engage with PhD students, thereby enriching their academic experience and broadening their global outlook.

This trip is designed to provide students with a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical insights, which will be insightful for those considering careers in accounting, economics, and public finance.

The estimated total cost for flights and accommodation for this trip to the Florida is £1200-1300. Students will be expected to pay the remaining amount after the £400 DMU Global bursary is deducted from the total.

Why take part?

This trip offers students a unique international experience in one of the world’s major cultural and tourist centers. By engaging with top university departments in the USA, including the University of Central Florida’s work on Sustainable Development Goal 16, students can compare and contrast our initiatives as a UN Hub with those of a leading US institution. This opportunity not only enhances academic and professional skills through real-world applications and global perspectives but also allows students to explore key themes in fiscal policy and public management in a dynamic setting. Participating in this trip will provide invaluable insights, broaden their understanding of international practices, and enrich their personal and academic growth.

Learning objectives

Participating in a DMU Global opportunity can help you develop a range of employability skills and competencies that enhance your studies. The objectives of this trip are to provide students with a practical application of their classroom theories by observing how they operate in an international context. It aims to give students a comparative perspective on fiscal policies and public management practices beyond the UK, thereby enriching their academic understanding. The trip also seeks to enhance professional skills through engagement with other institutions, while offering cultural enrichment that broadens their global perspective. Prior to the trip, students will prepare a presentation for the UCF student conference, allowing them to develop their research and presentation skills. They will also conduct background research on the Orange County Budget Offices to tailor their discussions to relevant course elements, enhancing their understanding of practical applications. Post-trip, students will be asked to reflect on their experiences.

Cultural activities

Reedy Creek Improvement District: Students will visit the Reedy Creek Improvement District to compare its facilities and fiscal management with those of Orange County. This visit will provide insights into the unique governance and financial structure of a special taxing district, highlighting differences and similarities in public sector management.

Major Attractions: Orange County is home to seven of the ten most visited theme parks in the United States, including Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, SeaWorld, and Universal Orlando Resort, offering students the chance to experience world-renowned entertainment and leisure facilities. Students will also be able to visit the nearby NASA Kennedy Space Center, which offers an educational and inspirational look at space exploration and scientific achievements of the USA.

Accommodation and Local Exploration: Students will stay in Downtown Orlando, with easy access to public transport. This will allow them to visit major tourist attractions and experience the vibrant local culture. The area also features the largest McDonald’s in the world, which many students have enjoyed visiting in the past.

This blend of educational visits and cultural activities ensures students gain a comprehensive understanding of both their field of study and the local culture, enhancing their overall learning experience.