Introduction to the concept of sustainability and key global issues that affect the social, environmental and economic bottom lines of businesses today, such as climate change and global injustice. Discussion of current trends, including post-Covid recovery, and their potential sustainability impact. Insight on corporate approaches to sustainability in stakeholder engagement, strategy development, communication, supply chain management and other core business functions and processes.

Students will understand that in today’s world sustainability is not a secondary consideration but central to long-term business success and survival. After gaining insights into key sustainability challenges across the social, environmental and economic spheres, particularly in transnational transactions and in low- and middle-income contexts, students will be able to analyse implications for business strategy, management and other core business functions. Moreover, they will develop a sense of drivers for change and innovative solutions for long-term business success.

Attendance and active participation are mandatory in all sessions in order for students to pass the course. Up to one session may be missed in exceptional circumstances, such as cases of illness (doctor’s note is required) or class conflict (if pre-agreed with the lecturer).

The course uses a range of teaching methodologies, including lectures, various formats for interaction (e.g. brainstorming, discussions, fishbowl, elevator pitch), student group work and presentations, as well as multi-media tools (e.g. short videos). Building on the lecturer’s practical experience, business and sustainability case studies will be identified and discussed. While the format has a focus on participation and discussion, there is ample guidance and input by the lecturer in order to maximise learning outcomes for students.

Class participation 34%
Home assignments 33%
Exam 33%

The following grading scheme is applied:

1 (equivalent to 90+ points): Exceptional, outstanding and excellent performance. Normally achieved by a minority of students who are highly engaged in the subject matter. These grades apply to a student who is self-initiating, exceeds expectations and has an insightful grasp of the subject matter.

2 (equivalent to 80-89 points): Very good, good and solid performance. These grades indicate good engagement with and a good grasp of the subject matter or excellent grasp in one or more areas balanced with a satisfactory grasp in other areas.

3 (equivalent to 66-79 points): Satisfactory. Indicates a satisfactory level of engagement, performance and knowledge of the subject matter.

4 (equivalent to 51-65 points): Marginal Performance. A student receiving this grade demonstrated a superficial grasp of the subject matter.

5 (50 points or less): Unsatisfactory performance 

Please log in with your WU account to use all functionalities of read!t. For off-campus access to our licensed electronic resources, remember to activate your VPN connection connection. In case you encounter any technical problems or have questions regarding read!t, please feel free to contact the library at readinglists@wu.ac.at.

Mag. Alice Schmidt, M.Sc.: office@aliceschmidt.at

For any organisational questions please contact the Incoming Team: incoming@wu.ac.at