Introductory description

This module is only open to WBS undergraduate students, and some students taking joint degrees with WBS and another department. Students from other departments cannot take this module. To find detailed availability and to apply for this module, log in to my.wbs.ac.uk using your normal IT login details and apply via the my.wbs module application system. Once you’ve secured a place on my.wbs you should apply via your home department’s usual process, which usually takes place via eVision. Note that you do not require the module leader’s permission to study a WBS module, so please do not contact them to request it.

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

An indicative syllabus is based on the following lecture titles:

• Economic growth vs. sustainable development
• Doing business in emerging and developed countries
• Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Ecological, and Legal Environment of Business
• Cultural competence in global business
• The UN Sustainable Development Goals
• Global megatrends and mega challenges
• Strategic implementation of the UN SDGs
• Strategic thinking and planning – skills and tools
• Stakeholder engagement
• Embedding sustainability in strategy

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Understand the importance and impact of socio-economic, political, technological and ecological factors on the global business environment of the 21st century.
• Understand the nature and significance of global megatrends and grand challenges for business.
• Practical engagement with the Agenda 2030 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals as an international framework for action.
• Understanding of how to apply strategic tools to analyse international challenges in business.
• Work effectively in teams, build interpersonal relations and leadership skills.
• Demonstrate written and oral skills for business presentation and communication.
• Practice entrepreneurial thinking, creativity and curiosity skills.
• Practice critical thinking and informed judgement.

Indicative reading list

Reading lists can be found in Talis

Subject specific skills

• Analyse, combine and compare interdisciplinary knowledge.
• Develop strategic thinking skills.
• Be aware of the importance of global, political, economic, technological, legal, ecological and social factors shaping the business environment of the 21st century.

Transferable skills

• Work effectively in teams, build interpersonal relations and leadership skills.
• Demonstrate written and oral skills for business presentation and communication.
• Practice entrepreneurial thinking, creativity and curiosity skills.
• Practice critical thinking and informed judgement.
• Appreciate the difference between strategic thinking and strategic implementation and the importance of making ethical and sustainable decisions.