BUS 320: International Business
Course description
The course focuses on business in today's international arena. It explores the historical and socio-economic roots of globalization, and its impact on ethics, social justice and human rights. It compares the differences in political and economic models between different countries, with particular regards to the U.S. and Europe.
In this regards the course addresses theories of international trade, with particular reference to the concept of tariff and free trade, foreign direct investment, business-government relations and the rise of multinational corporations as the most powerful private actors in international business. We will further look at the impact of regional economic integration (European Union) in Europe and the North America (USMCA).
Lastly, we will address the current structure of the foreign exchange market. We will discuss the evolution of the international financial system and its institutions, and we will understand how financial markets works and operates. Based on this broad analysis we will also tackle the financial and sovereign debt crisis.
Learning objectives
The course is designed to help you gather knowledge of the functional areas of business within an international perspective, by also evaluating the global environment, and speculating on the future international context and direction. By the end of this course, students will be able to:
critically analyse the dynamics of globalization;
discuss different approaches to business ethics and models;
understand the role and the functioning of multinational enterprises;
acknowledge the importance of national differences in terms of politics, economics, culture and legal systems for international business and economic development;
understand international trade and its multiple dynamics;
assess the role of international institutions in international business;
analyse foreign direct investment;
understand the current structure of the financial system, the past financial crisis and sovereign debt crisis in an international perspective.