By the end of the course the student will be able to comprehend what business ethics is about and why it is important. The student will be aware of different ethical theories and understands the ethical dimensions of business decision-making. The student will be able to identify and apply tools to improve ethical practices in business.
This course aims to develop your understanding of business ethics and how organisations follow the code of ethics in their daily operations. The course is designed to provide insights into ethical theories and tools for developing ethical business practices along with your own exploration of ethical decision making and how to develop ethical leadership. However, the part of learning is developing an appreciation of your own aptitude and commitment for becoming an ethical professional.
Assessment for this course will consist of two elements:
1. an individual learning log with personal reflection (50% of total course assessment)
2. a group analysis (50% of total course assessment)
Pre-Exam
Prior to the course start, you are required to take an electronic Pre-Exam covering the basics of business ethics. The examination material covers the chapters 1-2 (pp. 3-90) from the core text book:
Crane, A. & Matten, D. (2010) Business Ethics: Managing corporate citizenship and sustainability in the age of globalization, 3rd ed. New York: Oxford University Press. ISBN 978-0-19-956433-0.
The aim of the Pre-Exam is to help you to approach the main theories and concepts of business ethics. In addition, the aim is to assess whether students have reached the sufficient general knowledge in business ethics that is needed for the successful completion of this course. The assessment will be Pass or Fail.
Please, register for the electronic exam: https://tenttis.uta.fi
Please, read the instructions for the electronic exam carefully!
Lectures will cover essential concepts in business ethics and draw upon the theoretical models to analyse real world business situations. Simulations and games will be used to enhance learning and enjoyment. Case studies introduced by the visiting business experts and articles will be examined and discussed in lectures to illustrate important ethical issues that may affect decision making. You will be required to contribute critically to discussions and demonstrate initiative and originality in proposing solutions to issues and problems identified.