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2023/2024  BA-BEBUO1002U  The European Business Framework

English Title
The European Business Framework

Course information
Language English
Course ECTS 7.5 ECTS
Type Mandatory
Level Bachelor
Duration One Semester
Start time of the course Autumn
Timetable Course schedule will be posted at calendar.cbs.dk
Study board
Study Board for BSc in European Business
Course coordinator
  • Kevin McGovern - Department of Management, Society and Communication (MSC)
Main academic disciplines
  • International political economy
  • Political leadership and public management
  • Political Science
Teaching methods
  • Blended learning
Last updated on 23-06-2023

Relevant links
Learning objectives
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the EU’s development and institutions
  • Describe key EU policy areas and decision-making processes as a context for business
  • Understand ethical dilemmas facing the EU
  • Critically relate theories taught in the course to EU institutions and policies
  • Define a relevant problem pertaining to the policies and standards of the EU
  • Conduct an independent analysis drawing upon a range of sources
  • Show awareness of complex economic, political and social challenges relating to policy-making in the EU
  • Communicate and discuss the results clearly, using appropriate terms and concepts
Examination
The European Business Framework:
Exam ECTS 7,5
Examination form Oral exam based on written product

In order to participate in the oral exam, the written product must be handed in before the oral exam; by the set deadline. The grade is based on an overall assessment of the written product and the individual oral performance, see also the rules about examination forms in the programme regulations.
Individual or group exam Individual oral exam based on written group product
Number of people in the group 2-3
Size of written product Max. 3 pages
Assignment type Synopsis
Release of assignment Subject chosen by students themselves, see guidelines if any
Duration
Written product to be submitted on specified date and time.
20 min. per student, including examiners' discussion of grade, and informing plus explaining the grade
Grading scale 7-point grading scale
Examiner(s) Internal examiner and external examiner
Exam period Winter
Make-up exam/re-exam
Same examination form as the ordinary exam
If a student participated in writing a group synopsis but was sick at the time of the oral examination, the re-examination will be based on a resubmission of the original group synopsis.
If a student participated in writing a group synopsis, but did not pass the examination, the student can choose either to resubmit the original group synopsis or to write a new, individual synopsis within a specified time period.
Description of the exam procedure

A period of three weeks is allowed to write the synopsis. Students select a topic based on a policy area within the framework of the course.

 

 
Course content, structure and pedagogical approach

This course introduces students to the institutions, decision-making processes and policies of the European Union (EU), constituting a framework for business in Europe. It provides some of the knowledge needed by companies, NGOs and public agencies engaged in cross-border business or in developing policy positions pertaining to rules and standards applied in European markets. 

 

The course gives an overview of the historical development of postwar integration in Europe to the present day, as well as the functions and practices of the institutions of the EU, including the European Council, European Commission, Council of the EU, European Parliament, Court of Justice etc. Furthermore, some of the key EU policy areas relevant to business will be studied, both the content and processes of policy-making, herein lobbyism. These might include the policies of the EU as a customs union and external trade agreements, the monetary and fiscal framework of EMU, labour mobility and labour market regulation, environmental policy with a focus on climate change and the EU Emissions Trading Scheme, and rules and norms pertaining to the Single European Market, such as competition policy, health and safety standards.  

 

In this course, analyses of EU institutions, policies and standards are conducted using relevant theory and concepts, taking business as well as public interest and critical perspectives. Students learn to reflect upon the economic, political, social and ethical implications of policy-making in the EU  
Description of the teaching methods
The course consists of a combination of lectures and exercise classes, with the latter organized around student presentations of relevant academic texts, articles and official publications, as well as class discussions of selected topics. Students work collaboratively in the preparation of presentations, assignments and the exam synopsis. The course utilizes blended learning, including pre-recordings, additional sources on Canvas, online quizzes and specific online feedback on assignments.
Feedback during the teaching period
Student feedback will occur regularly throughout the course via exercise classes, in which there will be weekly presentations by students as well as set questions on the texts. Written online feedback is provided on the slides students prepare for their presentations in class, as well as direct feedback on the oral performance. Students also submit a draft of the introduction and research question for their exam topic, and receive online written feedback.

Students are encouraged to participate fully and constructively in two-way communication in exercise classes, and as far as possible lectures too. Students are welcome to take advantage of office hours for a one-to-one dialogue with lecturers.
Student workload
Lectures 24 hours
Classes 22 hours
Preparation for classes 130 hours
Expected literature

Simon Bulmer et al (2020): Politics inthe European Union, OUP. 

Details of further literature will be provided in the detailed course outline at the start of the semester.  
Last updated on 23-06-2023