International Economics and Business

Faculty

Faculty of Business Management and Social Sciences

Version

Version 2 of 16.01.2025.

Module identifier

22M0904

Module level

Master

Language of instruction

English

ECTS credit points and grading

5.0

Module frequency

only winterterm

Duration

1 semester

 

 

Brief description

The module analyzes the changing roles of companies and countries in the global economy. The economics and business aspects are integrated into a holistic perspective. Future managers will be endowed with knowledge of how the global economy works, and with analytical skills strengthening their judgment on strategic decisions in internationally operating companies.

Teaching and learning outcomes

  1. Key facts on the international economy
  2. Globalization and deglobalization
  3. Paradigms of globalization
  4. Sources of comparative advantage
  5. Protectionism and trade wars
  6. Multinational enterprises and the global South
  7. Globalization and inequality
  8. The impact of climate change
  9. Global environmental policy

Overall workload

The total workload for the module is 150 hours (see also "ECTS credit points and grading").

Teaching and learning methods
Lecturer based learning
Hours of workloadType of teachingMedia implementationConcretization
25LecturePresence-
20PracticePresence-
Lecturer independent learning
Hours of workloadType of teachingMedia implementationConcretization
30seminar paper-
35Study of literature-
40Exam preparation-
Graded examination
  • Written examination or
  • Homework / Assignment or
  • Portfolio exam
Remark on the assessment methods

The portfolio exam covers 100 points and consist of a one-hour written examination (K1) and a report (R). The written examination and the report are weighted by 50 points each. 

Exam duration and scope

Written examination: in accordance with the valid study regulations

Written paper: approx. 10-15 pages

Report as part of the portfolio exam: Presentation: approx. 20 minutes with a written report of approx. 5-8 pages.

The requirements are specified in the relevant class.

Recommended prior knowledge

Bachelor level microeconomics and macroeconomics. Basic knowledge in globalization.

Knowledge Broadening

Students know the main drivers of globalization and deglobalization. They can explain their impact on the structure of the global economy, the trade policy of nations and corporate strategic options. They are able to explain the relationship between globalization and inequality and are aware of the impact of climate change on the global economy.

Knowledge deepening

Students have a profound knowledge of international trade, foreign direct investment, labor movement, balance of payments and exchange rates. They can identify the winners and losers of globalization processes and assess their consequences for enterprises operating internationally. They are able to explain the reasons for deglobalization and are in a position to demonstrate what this means to companies operating internationally. 

Knowledge Understanding

Students interpret and evaluate relevant data on global economic activity using appropriate economic theories or concepts from international business management. They critically reflect the impact of global warming on international economic and business relations.

Application and Transfer

Students who have successfully completed this module react independently and appropriately to unpredictable developments in a rapidly changing international environment. They apply their problem-solving skills to international challenges and critically reflect on their decisions.

Academic Innovation

Students will be able to use theories and concepts related to international economics and business to initiate research processes by identifying research questions to be adressed and conduct respective research projects appropriate to the master level.

Communication and Cooperation

Students critically analyze complex questions of the world economy and discuss them with colleagues and consultants at a high level. They question the political economy of dominant doctrines and media-propagated guidelines on economic governance in relation to the global economy.

Academic Self-Conception / Professionalism

Students will be able to classify their own and others' professional behavior normatively on the basis of their knowledge of relevant problems related to the international economy. They will be able to assess existing and future challenges related globalization and deglobalization from and economic and business point of view.

Literature

  1. Krugman, Paul et al.: International Economics - Theory and Policy, latest edition.
  2. Carbaugh, Robert: International Economics, latest edition.
  3. Peng, Mike: Global Business, latest edition.
  4. Klein, Matthew and Pettis, Michael (2021): Trade Wars Are Class Wars: How Rising Inequality Distorts the Global Economy and Threatens International Peace. Yale University Press
  5. Roberts, Anthea and Lamp, Nicolas (2021): Six Faces of Globalization: Who Wins, Who Loses, and Why It Matters. Harvard University Press

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Linkage to other modules

The module follows on from the preceding module Global Political Economy which focuses on the framework conditions for international businesses. It deepens the understanding of the international processes relevant to internationally operating firms. Together both modules provide students with a profound knowledge of how the world economy works. 

Applicability in study programs

  • International Business and Management (Master)
    • International Business and Management, M.A. (01.09.2024)

    Person responsible for the module
    • Trabold, Harald
    Teachers
    • Trabold, Harald