Syllabus

Title
0392 Organization Theory
Instructors
Dr. Thorsten Koch
Contact details
Type
PI
Weekly hours
2
Language of instruction
Englisch
Registration
10/22/25 to 10/24/25
Registration via LPIS
Notes to the course
This class is only offered in winter semesters.
Subject(s) Master Programs
Dates
Day Date Time Room
Monday 11/17/25 01:00 PM - 05:00 PM EA.6.026
Monday 12/15/25 01:00 PM - 05:00 PM EA.6.026
Monday 12/22/25 01:00 PM - 05:00 PM EA.6.026
Monday 01/12/26 01:00 PM - 05:00 PM EA.6.026
Monday 01/19/26 01:00 PM - 05:00 PM EA.6.026
Monday 01/26/26 10:30 AM - 02:30 PM TC.2.02
Contents

The course provides an overview of central organizational theories. It focuses on their fundamental questions, concepts, and perspectives on the phenomenon of organization, as well as the implications for the design and management of organizations.

Learning outcomes

The primary learning objective is to enable students to compare and contrast different theoretical approaches to organization. In particular, students will learn which explanatory models can be derived from different theories, which aspects are identified as relevant, what explanatory interests are pursued, and which courses of action can be derived from them.

Upon completion of the Master’s program in Management, students will be able to apply appropriate organizational theories to analyze organizational situations and derive courses of action in line with their objectives.

Attendance requirements

To successfully complete the course, at least 80% attendance is required.

In cases of justified absence, students may miss a maximum of 20% of the total course time. If cumulative absences exceed 20%, the course must be repeated. Documentation (e.g., medical certificate) must be provided for absences.

According to the WU examination regulations, valid reasons include all circumstances beyond the student’s control (illness, accident, death of a close relative). Professional obligations are not considered valid reasons, as they lie within the student’s responsibility.

Teaching/learning method(s)

Didactic methods include:

  •           Lectures by the course instructor
  •          Independent study of academic literature
  •           Group work and presentations
  •           Class discussions
  •            Final comparison and critical reflection of theoretical approaches

The use of AI-based IT systems and, in particular, “ChatGPT” by students is generally not permitted in the context of this course. Exceptions may be made in specific cases and will be explicitly announced by the instructor.

Assessment

Group level

  •           30 points: Seminar paper (indicators: clear structure, development of criteria, critical assessment of the literature)
  •       10 points: Presentation (indicators: PowerPoints, handouts, interactive elements, time management)

Individual level

  •       20 points: Literature reflection or similar written assignments
  •       40 points: Final exam

For examinations and partial assessments in this course, the use of any AI-based software (e.g., ChatGPT, Bard, etc.) is strictly prohibited and will be considered academic misconduct, as it constitutes the misrepresentation of scholarly work.

Prerequisites for participation and waiting lists

Positive Absolvierung der LV „Einführung in das Management“

Diese Lehrveranstaltung baut auf die Wissensinhalte des Bachelorstudiums auf. Sie hat dezidierten wissenschaftlichen Charakter und knüpft an den aktuellen wissenschaftlichen Forschungsstand an.

Readings

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Availability of lecturer(s)

Institut für Organization Studies
per E-Mail: thorsten.koch@wu.ac.at 

Last edited: 2025-09-18



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