Module description
This module aims to introduce you to concepts, policies, theories and debates around the European business environment in the context of intensifying global competition and the internationalisation of business. The module adopts a multi-level perspective, in discussing the interplay between supra-national level policies, stakeholders, and micro-level corporate strategies.
Topics covered include, for example, how EU competition law affects business decisions; how the opening up of markets in Europe influences ownership changes and internationalisation strategies; what is the impact of European regulations upon HR practices; or how European companies respond to the changing environment through innovation or restructuring.
Assessment details
- 80% Group Report
- 20% Group Presentation
Educational aims & objectives
- An in-depth understanding of the European business environment and its challenges and an ability to translate theory, policy and empirical evidence into practice.
- A broad understanding of various management functions and stakeholders involved in the formulation of corporate strategy in Europe.
- The development of problem solving, team working, analytical and communication skills to enhance their confidence in decision-making in multinational enterprises.
Learning outcomes
On completion of this module, successful students should be able to:
- Appreciate the changing business environment in Europe in light of current and emerging challenges.
- Critically assess how the European Union policies impact upon corporate strategies in the context of the Single European Market.
- Comprehend the influence of European regulations on the management of human resources in Europe.
Teaching pattern
Across the semester teaching is expected to comprise of:
- 10 hours lectures
- 9 hours tutorial
You will also be expected to spend time preparing for classes and working on the assessment tasks each week. The combined hours of classes and independent learning should equate to at least 15 hours a week.
Suggested reading list
The module uses a number of specialist journal articles and book chapters. For an overview of the types of subjects covered in the module, the following books are recommended:
Johnson, D. & Turner C. (2015). European Business, Third edition, Routledge
Guay, T. (2014) The Business Environment of Europe: Firms, Governments, and Institutions. Cambridge University Press.
Somers, F. (2010) European Business Environment: Doing Business in the EU, Routledge- Noordhoff Uitgevers.§ Suder, G. (2012) Doing Business in Europe, Second edition, Sage.
Suder, G., Riviere, M. & Lindeque, J. (eds.). (2018) The Routledge Companion to European Business. Routledge.