74643 - International Business

Learning outcomes

At the completion of the course, students will be able to identify and frame issues related to the global environment in which international companies operate. This includes the ability to understand the implications of operating across national borders, evaluate different internationalisation processes, comprehend the implications of globalisation, cultural, and social differences, and analyse corporate strategies and organisational structures.

Course contents

The course will cover the following topics:

1. The World of International Business

• An introduction to International Business
• International Trade and International Business
• General Frameworks in International Business
• Multinational Enterprises, Innovation and Competitiveness

2. The Environment of International Business

• International Politics
• International Culture

3. International Business Strategy

• Multinational Strategy
• Organizing Strategy
• Corporate Strategy and National Competitiveness
• Political Risk and Negotiation Strategy

 

Readings/Bibliography

Required readings:

Collinson, S., Narula, R., & Rugman, A. (2020). International Business, 8th Edition, Pearson.

Chapter 1-6; 8-10; 14

Additional reading materials will be provided during the teaching term. Students are invited to check on Virtuale for the most updated version of the syllabus.

Teaching methods

Classes will combine lectures and discussions around selected case-studies.

Assessment methods

Assessment will be based on a final written exam, consisting of a combination of 10 multiple choice questions and two open questions. Each multiple-choice question is worth 2 marks and the open questions are worth up to 6 marks each. Students totalling 32 marks will be graded “30 e lode”. Students will have no more than 40 minutes to submit their final exams and no support material and tools (such as books, notes, dictionaries, and electronic devices) are allowed during the exam.

An optional coursework activity will be available for students attending class. This will consist of a case study that will be assigned to teams of 3-4 students. Each team will make a presentation during the last week of term.

This groupwork activity is not compulsory, and will be marked 0-2 marks, which will add to the mark in the final exam.

Teaching tools

Case studies and lecture slides will be used to support lecture delivery. These will made available in advance of classes.

Office hours

See the website of Davide Castellani

See the website of Elisa Carloni