Please note! Course description is confirmed for two academic years, which means that in general, e.g. Learning outcomes, assessment methods and key content stays unchanged. However, via course syllabus, it is possible to specify or change the course execution in each realization of the course, such as how the contact sessions are organized, assessment methods weighted or materials used.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The key objectives of the course are to i) introduce the frameworks and tools for analyzing the global business environment, ii) compare various modes of doing business across borders, and iii) present approaches to the planning, implementation and management of business activities globally.

The learning outcomes include:

  • enhanced awareness of the differences in global business environment, including political, regulatory and cultural aspects
  • improved understanding of the suitability of various ways to conduct business across contexts, including adaptation
  • appreciation of ethical and social responsibility issues
  • ability to analyze and plan global business activities

Credits: 6

Schedule: 10.09.2024 - 10.10.2024

Teacher in charge (valid for whole curriculum period):

Teacher in charge (applies in this implementation): Iiris Saittakari

Contact information for the course (applies in this implementation):

CEFR level (valid for whole curriculum period):

Language of instruction and studies (applies in this implementation):

Teaching language: English. Languages of study attainment: Finnish, English

CONTENT, ASSESSMENT AND WORKLOAD

Content
  • valid for whole curriculum period:

    This course provides a theoretically grounded overview of key issues, opportunities and challenges in international business. We will assess the implications of (de-)globalization for firms and their operating environment. We will also analyze firms’ needs to adjust their strategies and operations due to disruptive changes. The course covers key concepts and principles of conducting international business, including functional perspectives such as human resources. The role of politics and regulation are also covered from the viewpoint of world trade and regional economic blocs. The premises that various countries provide for companies in terms of competitiveness are analyzed. Ethical issues as well as social and environmental responsibility are addressed.

Assessment Methods and Criteria
  • valid for whole curriculum period:

    Based on assignments and participation.

Workload
  • valid for whole curriculum period:

    Contact teaching 
    Independent work 

    Group work

DETAILS

Study Material
  • valid for whole curriculum period:

    As indicated in the syllabus.

Substitutes for Courses
Prerequisites
SDG: Sustainable Development Goals

    8 Decent Work and Economic Growth

    11 Sustainable Cities and Communities

    12 Responsible Production and Consumption

    17 Partnerships for the Goals

FURTHER INFORMATION

Further Information
  • valid for whole curriculum period:

    Teaching Language: English

    Teaching Period: 2024-2025 Autumn I
    2025-2026 Autumn I

    Registration:

    The course is restricted to 60 students. Students are admitted to the course in the following priority order 1) Management major students (B.Sc. programme) / Open University students, 2) Other BIZ bachelor's students / exchange students, 3) Other students.