Business Management
Advanced Corporate & Stakeholder Management
| Semester | 1 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM1ACSIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
If organizations (companies) are regarded as means-end constructs, it follows for corporate management that the purpose of an organization is ensured by the appropriate choice of means to the end. The choice of the purpose-oriented resource pool and the combination of resources is supported by didactic tools. This integrated course provides insights into the world of management tools, including management concepts and business management theories. In addition, students acquire sound knowledge in the use of these tools to design, control, and develop organizations in ways that prove successful in challenging management positions within national and international companies. The managerial task of organizational design, control, and development also extends to stakeholder management, by analyzing diverging interests and their micro-politics with a view to cooperative payoffs for all parties involved. Students experience an open, motivating, and collaborative teaching space in which management thinking and action is practiced in creative, critical, and inspiring ways.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - understand the organization construct and the structure and management of organizations through purpose, structures, processes, values and standards; - understand that the success of organizations also depends on stakeholders with their diverging interests and the associated micro-political strategies, the management of which requires insights from behavioral science; - know the nature of business management theories, management concepts, and management tools; - recognize management fads and management myths; - be able to identify tools for solving business problems authentically, based on evidence and according to the situation, assess their consequences, and apply them effectively; and - have developed an understanding of the key business factors that lead to success.
Superior module:
Management & Leadership 1
Module description:
-
Corporate Risk Management
| Semester | 1 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM1RMUIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 4 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
Any type of business activity is associated with risk. New risks also arise from changes in framework conditions and increasing complexity and uncertainties, partly caused by digital and sustained transformation. The course addresses the types of risks to which a company is exposed and how to deal with them. The following aspects are covered: - types of risks, including environmental and social risks and risks resulting from digitization; - inclusion of risk management into corporate governance policies; - national and international requirements for corporate risk management; - risk management process and risk management system; - identification and perception of risks; - methods and tools for risk assessment and measurement; and - risk management strategies. The focus of the course is on the risk management system of companies. Accordingly, the interplay and interdependencies between different risks are analyzed and taken into account in developing recommendations for action on risk management. The role and contribution of risk management to improving the company¿s resilience and competitive position is also examined.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - have gained a comprehensive overview of the types of risks, in particular the environmental, social, and digital risks to which a company is exposed; - be able to recognize risks resulting from new framework conditions and increased complexity and dynamics; - be familiar with the essential legal and managerial requirements of risk management in a company; - be familiar with tools for risk identification and risk assessment; - be familiar with the basic strategies of risk management; and - be able to assess the impact of environmental, social, and digital risks on the company and integrate these risks (but also opportunities) into the company`s risk management. Systematic and holistic thinking is trained by looking at the entire risk management process in companies. Students will be able to understand the risk management process in a company and evaluate it according to various criteria. The methods taught promote problem-solving abilities as well as analytical and judgment skills.
Superior module:
Management & Leadership 1
Module description:
-
Innovative Quality & Process Management
| Semester | 1 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM1IQPIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
Opportunities and risks that arise, for example, as part of strategic processes or due to changes in economic or legal conditions, require businesses to adapt and further develop relevant business processes in the company. This course explores how a company's performance can be improved through comprehensive and systematic process management. Value stream-oriented process management and the interplay of corporate management and process management shows students how processes can be strategically managed, controlled, and optimized - especially in relation to changes. Reference models, evaluation methods, and methods for optimizing interfaces in companies represent a methodical foundation for measuring and optimizing corporate performance. The role of people in process management and the associated management challenges are discussed against the background of change and risk, and students learn about the key role that processes play in the digital transformation of companies.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - have acquired the professional skills to recognize the relevance of processes for company performance; - have gained methodological skills in the context of expected changes; - be able to apply suitable reference models, standards, and norms that help them to plan, manage, and optimize change processes in the company; - have strengthened their ability to think holistically; and - have developed the necessary decision-making and problem-solving skills to successfully implement complex change management tasks in companies using process management.
Superior module:
Management & Leadership 1
Module description:
-
Intercultural Management
| Semester | 1 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM1ICMIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | English |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 2 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
As a result of globalization, the requirements for managing change and sustainability are further deepened. The contents of this course are: - culture frameworks and taxonomies - global dexterity and cultural intelligence - working for and managing multinational organizations - recruiting for MNCs or across cultures - planning and executing international assignments - managing multicultural teams.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - understand how culture influences management tasks and how to devise communication strategies to accommodate cultural diversity; - know how to structure and manage teams that embrace culturally diverse backgrounds and use these effectively; - be aware of the challenges of international and expat assignments and be able to measure performance, as well as reintegrate employees after an international assignment; and - appreciate the challenge of communicating effectively across cultures and have developed strategies to achieve goals in a multinational, diverse setting. The following defined central competencies will have been developed further: decision-making and problem-solving, goal orientation, resilience and stress management, analytical skills & ability to judge.
Superior module:
Management & Leadership 1
Module description:
-
New Digital Business Models
| Semester | 1 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM1NDBIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | English |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
In this course, students learn to design business models as ecosystems and to create new business models from both creative and systematic perspectives. Students will learn about business model radar patterns and their application in designing new business models, such as platform business models. They will develop the ability to connect strategy and business models with technology and customer-focused processes. Students will gain proficiency in analyzing and deconstructing business models using radar patterns, strategic tools, and customer-focused blueprints. The course introduces a comprehensive business design framework that examines businesses through multiple lenses: strategy, business models, customer-focused processes, and technology. Students will apply this framework to analyze and describe business models as ecosystems.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will have learned to: - design business models as ecosystems; - perform business model innovation towards an ecosystem-driven approach; - use patterns to innovate business models; - link strategy and customer-focused processes with business models as ecosystems; and - understand the role of technology in business model innovation.
Superior module:
Innovation Management 1
Module description:
-
Planning & Designing Value Creation Systems
| Semester | 1 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM1PGWIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 3 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
This course explores how global value creation systems need to be designed in the age of digital transformation in order to ensure agility and flexibility while at the same achieve efficiency and profitability. The course provides an insight into the key tasks, objectives, and methods for optimizing value creation systems as well as the associated opportunities and risks from a corporate perspective. In terms of content, the focus is on the essential core processes of value creation - purchasing, procurement, production, and supply chain management - the emphasis being on thinking in processes and on understanding relationships within and across companies and their mutual interactions. Conflicting objectives arising from different planning and optimization approaches, such as greater flexibility and quality and at the same time lower costs and shorter delivery times, are worked on using the relevant process characteristics in the form of models and case studies. Fundamental parameters such as inventories, throughput times, batch sizes, output rates, and capacities are defined and their interrelationships and interactions analyzed. Building on this, selected concepts and trends, such as supply chain design models and the issue of transparency in supply chains, including practical application of AI models, are presented and the associated opportunities and risks are discussed.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - have gained an informed overview of the methods, models, and optimization approaches of value creation networks; - be able to analyze value creation processes and identify corresponding optimization potential; - know how to plan and design value creation networks, enabling them to recognize the fundamental relationships between corporate strategy, organization, and individual value creation processes; - be able to identify the process parameters relevant for optimization, while being aware of their interactions; and - be able to independently develop solutions to support the operational implementation of strategic objectives. The course encourages students to think holistically and systemically. Analytical skills and the ability to make judgments are honed and form the basis for successfully mastering the challenges of changing and designing value creation systems.
Superior module:
Digital Transformation 1
Module description:
-
Quantitative Methods
| Semester | 1 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM1QTMIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
Students learn to work with basic instruments and methods of data collection (sample planning, scale levels, questionnaire designs) and to develop and conduct research studies and use hypothesis tests. They will learn to process and analyze the collected data using the statistical software SPSS. They will also acquire sound knowledge in the application of common univariate and multivariate data analysis methods. The structure and contents of the course are: - scale levels, central tendency, and measures of dispersion - hypothesis formation (H0, H1, ¿-error, one- and two-tailed hypothesis tests) - contingency analysis - simple correlation analysis - mean value comparisons - testing for normal distribution - testing for variance homogeneity - single & multi-factorial analysis of variance - simple and multiple regression For each of these topics, there will be a brief introduction to the basic principles and methodology followed by applications to concrete examples with SPSS.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will have acquired the following skills and abilities: - Understanding scale levels and their significance for data analysis: Students will know the different scale levels (nominal, ordinal, interval, ratio) and understand how they influence the methods to choose for analysis. They will be able to recognize the differences between the scale levels and understand their influence on statistical procedures. - Ability to formulate and test hypotheses: Students will be able to formulate hypotheses, including the null hypothesis and the alternative hypothesis. They will understand the concepts of alpha-error (Type I error) and be able to perform one- and two-tailed hypothesis tests. - Application of standard methods of multivariate data analysis: Students will be proficient in carrying out and interpreting contingency analyses, simple correlation analyses, single and multi-factorial variance analyses and regression analyses. They will be able to correctly interpret the results of these analyses and draw informed conclusions from them. - Competence in the use of SPSS for data analysis: Students will be able to apply the above-mentioned statistical methods in SPSS, interpret the SPSS outputs, and analyze data adequately according to the problem at hand. - Knowledge of advanced data analysis methods: Students will have gained an overview of commonly used methods for mean value comparisons, tests for normal distribution and variance homogeneity. They will be familiar with their fundamental principles and be able to assess when these methods should be used. - Practical application of statistical methods: By applying the methods they have learned to specific examples using SPSS, students will have developed the ability to carry out statistical analyses in practice. They will have learned how to interpret the results adequately and derive relevant findings from the data.
Superior module:
Methodological Skills
Module description:
-
Strategic Innovation Management & Open Innovation
| Semester | 1 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM1SIMIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | English |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
This course explores the concepts of invention, innovation, and innovativity in enterprises. It discusses success criteria, principles, methods, and strategies of innovation management, as well as example cases. It analyzes dimensions of innovations in manufacturing as well as services, reasons for the necessity for innovations as well as drivers and barriers for innovations. Students explore classical static as well as dynamic models of innovation processes and their management. Fundamentals of open innovation as opposed to closed innovation approaches will be discussed, as well as the relevance of intellectual property rights and corporate structures and cultures that favor innovation. Further contents of this course are innovation-oriented competition, market and technology analyses, marketing and funding for innovation, development of innovations in networks, monetizing innovation and ambidexterity.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - have developed an understanding of the necessity, requirements, and impact of innovations in companies and entrepreneurship; - understand and apply innovation processes and methods in a strategic and systematic way; - know about and reflect on the classical tools of strategic innovation management and their advantages and disadvantages depending on the company culture and situation on the market; and - have gained analytical skills regarding factors that favor innovation, market and technology analyses, the development of innovations in networks as well as approaches for monetizing innovation.
Superior module:
Innovation Management 1
Module description:
-
Strategic People Management
| Semester | 1 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM1SPMIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | English |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
Focusing on the changing work environment driven by digitalization, globalization, and the growing impact of artificial intelligence (AI), this course addresses the importance of strategic people management in leveraging individuals as a competitive advantage. The emphasis is on aligning people management strategies with organizational goals. Students will explore key practices, leadership and people roles as well as emerging trends to effectively navigate people management in dynamic business contexts. The course will cover the following topics: - foundations of strategic people management (e.g., resource-based view, aligning people and organizational strategy); - changing roles of HR business partners and the role of leadership in driving strategic people management initiatives; - strategic people management practices along the employee journey: workforce planning, recruitment, training, performance management, and retention; - people management trends: adapting them to changing contexts such as globalization, digital transformation, and demographic challenges; - agility in strategic people management and people management's contribution to organizational value creation.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - understand and be able to discuss the critical role of strategic people management in addressing the challenges of a rapidly evolving work environment; - have developed skills to create and align people management strategies with organizational goals to enhance organizational competitiveness; - have gained an overview of strategic people management practices along the employee journey, including workforce planning, recruitment, training, performance management, and retention; - have acquired knowledge of the changing roles in people management, such as the HR Business Partner roles, and will be able to distinguish them from the leadership roles in driving strategic initiatives; and - have gained insights into emerging trends, such as digitalization and demographic challenges, and will be equipped to evaluate agility in people management and its contribution to organizational value creation. These learning outcomes prepare them to lead effectively in dynamic and complex business contexts.
Superior module:
Management & Leadership 1
Module description:
-
Sustainability and Circular Economy
| Semester | 1 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM1NCEIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
This course explains what environmental and sustainability management in a company consists of and which functions, thought patterns, and tools go into it. In addition, the different circles of the circular economy are examined to see if and how they can be operationalized from a business management perspective. The business and macroeconomic opportunities and risks associated with sustainability are discussed in detail in the course. Points of contact with other disciplines as well as the standards and strategic foundations of a socio-economically sound sustainability management approach are also explored. Looking at the stakeholder groups of corporate management, various perspectives open up in which the views of the various players are expressed with their respective objectives and options for action. Furthermore, basic knowledge of professional discourses on ethics and sustainability (e.g. the "trolley problem") is imparted to enable students to deal with the associated dilemmas in professional fields of work. In addition, the framework conditions for sustainable business activities are also discussed, i.e. how to operationalize SDGs and use the ESG framework to promote sustainability in corporate management. Aspects such as raw materials management with a view to conflict resources (e.g. rare earths) as a prerequisite for digital transformation are also addressed. As sustainability is intrinsically linked to sustainable consumption, the course examines models of consumption theory across disciplines to shed light on sustainable consumption decisions. Part of the course is the university-wide, interdisciplinary symposium on "Ethics & Sustainability."
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will know: - the genealogy, functions, and lines of thinking of the environmental and sustainability discourse; - business-ethical forms of normativity: sufficiency, generational justice (inter-/ intragenerational), utilitarian welfare effects of justice, social capital, inequality; - different forms of capital: natural, human, and social capital; - nature as an asset, not just a resource; - the ecological forms of market failure; students will be familiar with business management tools and strategies to internalize externalities in ways that unlock value creation potential; - the opportunities of sustainability management including in terms of legitimacy management toward stakeholders; - ways to operationalize institutional framework conditions (SDG, ESG); and - circular business models.
Superior module:
Management & Leadership 1
Module description:
-
Complex Methods of Innovation Management
| Semester | 2 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM2KMIIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
In this course, innovation management methods with a high degree of scientific-systematic complexity are presented, discussed, and practiced based on specific use cases. In everyday business innovation practice, complex innovation management methods are sometimes mistakenly avoided due to their high scientific demands. However, their added value in professional innovation management is undisputed, not least because they make a significant contribution to clarifying essential innovation questions such as: Which (aspects of the) products and services - or maybe even the business model - should be innovated? For which customers and markets should innovations be made and in which directions? How should innovations be carried out - radically or incrementally? Etc. Specifically, complex methods such as the following will be covered: - innovation potential analyses - blue ocean strategy - innovation foresight - etc.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - know complex methods of innovation management and be able to plan and apply these and present the results by themselves; - be able to assess which methods are suitable for which innovation issues; - understand how to determine innovation directions more precisely and thus increase the effectiveness and efficiency of innovations; and - have learned to differentiate between industry, company, and product perspectives and to successfully align them in innovation management.
Superior module:
Innovation Management 1
Module description:
-
Data Science for Business Applications
| Semester | 2 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM2DSBIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
This course teaches theoretical and practical skills for data-driven decision-making in a business context. Depending on the focus of the course, either the MS Power BI software or the conjoint analysis method will be used. The focus for the respective semester and hence the method to be used is determined before the start of the course. With MS Power BI, students learn how to use this software to import and process data and visualize it in interactive dashboards. In addition to basic functions, advanced techniques such as DAX (Data Analysis Expressions) are also taught for performing complex analyses. Other methods and techniques covered in MS Power BI include: - data visualization - data modeling - geodata analysis - predictive analyses The aim is to process and visualize business data in ways that make them understandable and strategically actionable. The alternative focus is on conjoint analysis, a method for determining customer preferences. Students design a conjoint experiment, collect data, analyze them and interpret the results. This method is particularly suitable for analyzing and optimizing product features. In both variants, the acquired knowledge is applied in a practical project. Students either create an interactive dashboard or carry out a conjoint analysis. The results are presented to the group and supplemented with recommendations for action.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to: - understand and apply data-driven decision-making processes in a business context; - use and critically reflect on data as a basis for strategic business decisions. Depending on the focus of the course, they will have acquired advanced skills either in the use of MS Power BI or in the application of conjoint analysis. When the focus has been on MS Power BI, they will be able to: - import, cleanse, and model data from various sources; - create interactive dashboards and carry out visual analyses; - use DAX (Data Analysis Expressions) to calculate complex key figures and use advanced analysis techniques such as predictive analyses and geodata analyses. When the focus has been on conjoint analysis, they will be able to: - design a conjoint experiment to survey customer preferences; - collect data and analyze them using suitable statistical methods; - understand the methodological principles of conjoint analysis; and - interpret the findings for product optimization and market segmentation.
Superior module:
Digital Transformation 1
Module description:
-
Digital Transformation of the Economy and Society
| Semester | 2 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM2DTWIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
The course discusses the social and economic drivers of digitization for companies so that business strategy options (with regard to production, distribution, consumption) can be analyzed based on the changing underlying parameters. The focus is on discussing the disruptive, fundamental change in markets: Direct and indirect network externalities, lock-in effects, "from zero to one"/"the winner takes it all" strategies in the AI sector, labor market effects due to digitization, and the specific cost structure of the platform economy differ significantly from orthodox micro- and macroeconomic models, which is why this new type of theoretical modelling is taught in the course. The reason for this is that, for companies using AI and platforms to be successful, they need to have an understanding of this disruption, so that their strategies can benefit from changing competition in these markets. Digitization is revolutionizing not only corporate, but also individual consumer decisions in particular, due to comparatively lower transaction costs (up to possibilities of first-degree price discrimination). Additionally, the course discusses decision-making processes in an "Automated Democracy" (Ulbrich/Frey).
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will understand: - how the digital transformation of companies and of the entire economy works; - its impact on society; - approaches to transformation: students will have gained the skills to develop their own transformation approaches; - network externalities, lock-in effects, and the specific cost structure of the AI industry; and - the changed market dynamics due to digitalization.
Superior module:
Digital Transformation 1
Module description:
-
Management Control
| Semester | 2 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM2MACIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | English |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
Managers make decisions under uncertainty and in volatile conditions. Management control mechanisms can be used to support managers in achieving corporate goals. Management control is increasingly shaped by digitalization and sustainability aspects. The course also examines management control mechanisms for companies in an international context and predominantly from the perspective of managers who want to use these instruments in a goal-oriented manner. The focus is on the following content: - relationship between success potential ¿ success ¿ liquidity - control mechanisms in an international context - selected instruments of strategic and operational management accounting (e.g. key performance indicators, budgets, performance measurement) - digitalization and effects on management control - influence of sustainability aspects and corporate governance
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - have gained a sound understanding of the methods and instruments of management control and will be able to apply these in a dynamic and international corporate context; - have adopted a holistic perspective and be familiar with interrelationships and interactions within the company as well as between the company and its environment; - be able to assess the situation of a company with the help of key figures and key performance indicators and use this analysis to identify weaknesses, risks and threats as well as strengths and opportunities; and - be familiar with current developments in management control and the resulting challenges and opportunities, particularly in the context of digitalization and sustainability orientation.
Superior module:
Management & Leadership 1
Module description:
-
Qualitative Methods
| Semester | 2 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM2QLMIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | English |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
The course covers the fundamentals and methods of qualitative research, which are suitable for both business-related questions and economic research. As part of the course, examples of qualitative research designs will be presented, and various methods of data collection and analysis will be explored. Additionally, the presentation and interpretation of qualitative research results will be discussed. The course includes the following topics: - fundamentals of qualitative research: principles and quality criteria - research design: searching for and evaluating scientific literature, qualitative research design options, method suitability and selection, connection to research question(s) - data collection: sampling, preparation of necessary materials for data collection (especially interview guides) - data analysis: presentation of qualitative research designs, transcription, triangulation, mixed methods, text coding, types of category formation, use of (AI-supported) software - preparation and interpretation of qualitative research results
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - be familiar with the processes and fundamental methods of qualitative research; - be able to independently plan and conduct basic studies and systematically analyze the collected information; - be capable of evaluating, structuring, and interpreting research findings; - understand the quality criteria for qualitative research and be able to apply them when interpreting studies; and - have gained the skills to produce (qualitative) seminar papers and master's theses to academic standards.
Superior module:
Methodological Skills
Module description:
-
Special Aspects of Accounting & Corporate Governance
| Semester | 2 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM2SCGIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 2 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
Corporate financial and non-financial reporting is influenced by international interdependencies and a volatile economic environment. As a result, there is an increasing need for information that allows the most accurate assessment of a company`s risks and opportunities. There is also an increasing demand for the publication of non-financial indicators, in particular sustainability aspects. The course addresses these challenges and discusses accounting topics in more depth from an international and holistic perspective. Additionally, the fundamentals of internal control systems are discussed as a crucial element of modern corporate governance. The focus of the course is on: - national and international accounting principles and regulations - International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and studying selected aspects of international accounting in more depth - group accounting and consolidation: duty to prepare consolidated financial statements, basis of consolidation, and consolidation methods and techniques - non-financial reporting, integrated reporting and the Global Reporting Initiative - corporate governance & internal control system - current challenges in financial accounting
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - be able to recognize connections between balance sheet items and the elements of annual and consolidated financial statements; - be familiar with the essential accounting principles in a national and international context and the current requirements in relation to non-financial reporting and sustainability reporting; - be familiar with the methods and instruments of group accounting and have an understanding of consolidation processes; - be familiar with the essential features of current corporate governance guidelines and an internal control system; - be able to interpret annual and consolidated financial statements against the background of accounting policy measures and analyze net assets, financial position and results of operations on the basis of accounting data; and - understand the relevance of non-financial, particularly sustainability aspects and other current developments for bookkeeping and accounting. Accordingly, the course fosters analytical skills and judgment as well as holistic thinking.
Superior module:
Management & Leadership 1
Module description:
-
Strategic Marketing
| Semester | 2 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM2SMAIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
The course offers a comprehensive introduction to the theory and practice of strategic marketing management. A decision-oriented approach is pursued to impart the necessary steps for developing marketing strategies in dynamic and sometimes volatile environments. The course covers, among others, the concept and process of strategic corporate and marketing planning, the use of strategic analysis tools, derivation of corporate and marketing objectives, development of marketing strategies, and strategy alternatives in different market situations.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of the course students will have gained the skills and abilities to: - understand the importance and effectiveness of strategic marketing decisions; - state the goals, tasks, and challenges of strategic marketing; - analytically apply the methods, concepts, and tools used in the strategy development process and derive relevant implications; and - clearly and convincingly explain and present their ideas and opinions on strategic marketing issues.
Superior module:
Management & Leadership 1
Module description:
-
Strategic Transformation Management
| Semester | 2 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM2STMIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
This course equips students with theoretical and practical knowledge in strategic transformation management. Students learn how organizations can strategically plan, manage, and implement transformative changes in order to adapt to dynamic market conditions, technological developments, and societal challenges. The main goal in doing so is to transform the organization in ways to make it better prepared for future challenges, increase its competitiveness, and stay successful in the long term. This can be achieved by introducing new business models, digitizing processes, adapting to regulatory requirements or tapping into new markets. The focus of the course is on combining strategic analysis, change management, and cultural transformation to create sustainable competitive advantages.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will be able to: - understand and apply the fundamentals and principles of strategic transformation management; - analyze, plan and manage strategic transformation processes; - use change management methods and tools in transformation projects; - identify challenges and resistance in transformation processes and develop suitable solutions; - assess the importance of corporate culture and communication in transformation processes; and - define success factors and KPIs for measuring transformation projects. Teaching and learning methods: The course will be delivered through a combination of lectures, interactive discussions, and case study analyses. Students are encouraged to actively participate in the learning process and deepen their theoretical knowledge through practical applications.
Superior module:
Management & Leadership 1
Module description:
-
Corporate Restructuring & Turnaround Management
| Semester | 2 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM2CRTIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | English |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
In an environment shaped by transformation and change, businesses are confronted with crises induced internally and externally that require restructuring and turnaround processes to strengthen their resilience. This course provides insights into the field of corporate restructuring as well as crisis and turnaround management. It discusses the progression and dynamics of corporate crises, highlights legal framework conditions, and explores management methods to deal with and prevent crises and increase corporate resilience. Specifically, the course addresses the following aspects: - crisis typologies and progression, causes for and symptoms of crises - managerial and legal definitions of corporate crises - delimiting crises, turnaround, risk and restructuring management - extrajudicial turnaround processes / workout - judicial turnaround processes - turnaround process, restructuring process - early warning systems
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - possess profound insights into the problems, risks and challenges of corporate crises and insolvency; - have gained a solid understanding of legal principles and framework conditions relevant for insolvency cases, as well as of crisis, turnaround, and restructuring management from a business management point of view, and of the dynamics of these processes; - be familiar with the progression, methods, and tools of turnaround and restructuring management and know how to apply these in an increasingly transforming and uncertain business environment to preserve and strengthen corporate resilience; - have gained a holistic perspective, with the ability to assess the challenges and effects that restructuring and turnaround activities can have on stakeholders; - be aware of the interplay of short-term, long-term, and sustainable restructuring activities; and - be able to apply methods of proactive crisis management according to the situation at hand that, to prevent insolvency, aim for early detection and avoidance of corporate crises.
Superior module:
Financial Management 1
Module description:
-
Financial Markets & Institutions
| Semester | 2 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM2FMIIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | English |
| SWS | 3 |
| ECTS Credits | 4 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
Economic uncertainty manifests particularly quickly in the global financial markets in the form of fluctuating rates and real losses for all involved agents. Financial markets can mirror exogenous risks such political crises or changing global powers. Functioning financial markets and their regulations are essential for economic and sustainable development in a world in transformation. The course introduces students to the most important models of financial markets theory and their relevance for the agents in financial markets. The course focuses on the holistic consideration of contexts and interdependencies, as well as on providing deep insights into financial market developments, products, and market players: - financial market fundamentals: types of financial markets, interest rate structures, market efficiency, international financial markets; - financial market participants, with a focus on financial institutions such as banks and insurance companies and financial intermediaries. Characteristics of the banking industry and banking regulations; - role of fintech companies in financial markets & transactions; - financial market pricing: Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM) and Arbitrage Pricing Theory; - neo-Institutionalism and behavioral finance: restrictions, prospect theory, market-related and behavioral anomalies; and - current issues in financial markets.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - be familiar with the core models of capital market theory; - have gained deep and comprehensive insights into financial market structures and agents, in particular financial institutions; - understand the principles of neoliberal institutional economics with its assumptions and their limitations, which behavioral finance seeks to overcome by drawing on behavioral science and psychology; - be able to apply theoretical knowledge of financial markets and behavioral science, responding to particular situations in order to implement change processes in financial markets and anticipate potential impacts; - know how to categorize occurring phenomena and assess the effectiveness of regulatory steps; and - be familiar with the tasks and tools of the most relevant financial institutions as well as their interrelationships. As this course pursues a holistic approach towards analyzing financial markets and dependencies, it also promotes systematic and holistic thinking. It helps students develop their analytical and assessment skills by thoroughly exploring financial market tools.
Superior module:
Financial Management 1
Module description:
-
Circular Business Models
| Semester | 2 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM2CBMIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | English |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
The Circular Business Models course explores different strategies allowing companies to transition from linear to circular value creation. Key models include product-as-a-service approaches, where businesses retain ownership and sell usage rather than products via e.g. sharing platforms, which optimize resource use through collaborative consumption. Other models include product life extension, focusing on repair, refurbishment, remanufacturing and closed-loop recycling, where materials are continuously recovered and reused. Through case studies and hands-on projects, students will analyze and design circular business strategies for real-world applications.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will have learned: - to understand different circular models, such as the product-as-a-service model, sharing platforms, product life extension, and closed-loop recycling; - how businesses can transition from linear to circular models by integrating sustainability principles and using tools like life cycle assessment and circularity metrics; - to evaluate the impact of circular strategies and develop tailored business solutions; - to apply their knowledge to real-world business challenges through case studies and practical projects.
Superior module:
Management of Sustainable Value Creation 1
Module description:
-
Sustainable Value Chains
| Semester | 2 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM2NVCIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 3 |
| ECTS Credits | 4 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
In this course, students deal intensively with the strategic opportunities and challenges of sustainability management in value chains. The aim is to understand the importance of sustainability as a competitive advantage and to learn practical approaches for its implementation. Topics that will be discussed include: opportunities and challenges of sustainability, megatrends, impacts along the value chain, and carbon footprint. Successful and innovative strategies of well-known companies serve as inspiration for practical application by the students. During an excursion, students get the opportunity to experience the topic of sustainability in a corporate context. The course combines theoretical principles with practical methods, discussions, and case studies.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will have gained the skills and abilities to: - apply an in-depth understanding of the importance and challenges of sustainability management; - develop sustainable strategies and assess their impact along the entire value chain; - understand key megatrends such as ecology, digitalization, and globalization and their significance for companies. Particular emphasis is placed on the use of practice-oriented tools and methods.
Superior module:
Management of Sustainable Value Creation 1
Module description:
-
Coaching & Mentoring
| Semester | 2 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM2CUMIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 2 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
In a dynamic and increasingly complex working world, coaching and mentoring are crucial tools for personal and professional development. This course offers students the opportunity to learn the basics and practices of coaching and mentoring. The following topics are covered in this course: - introduction to concepts and theories of coaching and mentoring - reflection and development of personal skills, development of individual learning and development goals - development of skills in the areas of management & leadership, innovation management and digital transformation
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - have gained a sound understanding of the fundamentals and methods of coaching and mentoring and where they are used in practice, and will be able to recognize the differences between these two approaches; - have gained insights, through direct participation in coaching sessions, into the dynamics of these relationships, and be aware of practical fields of application; - be aware of the benefits and challenges of these approaches in the context of personal and professional development; - be able to identify individual development needs and goals, by reflecting on their own skills and strengths, and approach them in a more targeted manner; - have learned how to give and receive feedback to optimally further the development topics from their coaching & mentoring experience and strengthen their own resilience. This course is continued in the course on ¿Intervention Methods: Organization, Team, Individual¿ in the fourth semester. In the second semester the focus is on coaching, while the focus in the fourth semester is on mentoring.
Superior module:
People Management 1
Module description:
-
Labor and Social Law in the Context of Artificial Intelligence
| Semester | 2 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM2ASKIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 2 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
This course provides practice-oriented knowledge on how artificial intelligence (AI) can support HR experts and managers in solving labor and social law issues efficiently and in compliance with legal requirements. The focus is on the use of modern AI tools to support legal processes. The course contents are: - fundamentals and overview of available AI tools for labor and social law issues - AI support in drafting contracts and reviewing labor law agreements - use of AI for social law issues - use of AI to analyze labor law data - dealing with data protection and legal requirements for AI systems - limits of AI applications in labor and social law contexts - ethical aspects and responsibility in using AI - practical application and case studies
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will have gained the skills and abilities to: - understand the fundamentals and possible applications of modern AI tools in the context of labor and social law, their fields of application, and how to assess them; - apply AI-supported solutions in compliance with legal requirements, data protection regulations, and legal framework conditions; - critically reflect on the limits and ethical aspects of AI and take responsibility for its sustainable use; - use AI in real-life scenarios thanks to practical case studies.
Superior module:
People Management 1
Module description:
-
People Analytics & Digital Transformation
| Semester | 2 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 1 |
| Course code | BWBM2PADIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | English |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
This course teaches practical and strategic skills in the field of people analytics as a basis for data-driven decision making in people management. Using real case studies and modern technologies, students will analyze how digital tools and AI can enhance value creation and efficiency across organizational processes. A particular focus is placed on the use of employee-related data to measure and optimize HR initiatives and strategically anchor them within the organization. The course content includes: - people analytics concepts, objectives, and their strategic significance - data analysis and interpretation: methods for collecting, processing, and analyzing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) - visualization and interpretation of people-related data using dashboards - application of digital assistants and AI-powered technologies to improve efficiency and support decision-making in people management - the role of people management in driving digital transformation within organizations - reflection on the ethical and social aspects of people analytics in the workplace
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - have gained an in-depth understanding of the strategic foundations and practical applications of people analytics, while critically engaging with the associated ethical and social challenges; - have learned to collect, systematically analyze, and visualize employee-related data using dashboards; - have developed skills in leveraging digital tools and AI-powered technologies to drive efficiency and create strategic value in HR processes; - understand the role of people management in digital transformation and be able to apply it effectively to support organizational goals.
Superior module:
People Management 1
Module description:
-
Business Intelligence & AI
| Semester | 3 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM3BIAIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | English |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
This course blends the principles of effective data-driven storytelling with an AI-enabled methodology. The course will guide students through the entire data analysis lifecycle - from business understanding to deployment - while emphasizing how to craft compelling narratives that drive action. Students will learn how to uncover insights using a data framework and transform those insights into clear, impactful stories using visuals and presentations. Hands-on exercises with data tools from Tableau will solidify skills in data preparation, analysis, and visualization, ensuring that the story resonates with stakeholders at every phase. Students will leverage AI tools to support their role as data-driven storytellers. By the end of the course, they will be able to extract meaningful insights and communicate findings through engaging stories that align with business goals.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will have learned to: - understand the value of AI for business analytics; - understand the importance of visual cues; - craft a narrative with data; - use AI as a support tool for creating data-driven stories
Superior module:
Digital Transformation 2
Module description:
-
Consumer Behavior Research
| Semester | 3 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM3KVFIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
The main topics covered in this course include the basic concepts and factors influencing consumer behavior. These include mechanisms of activation and attention as well as the role of emotions in decision-making processes. Attitudes and their influence on consumer behavior are also discussed. Another focus is on information intake, processing, and storage, including perception and learning. In addition, both the physical and the virtual consumer environments are discussed - from the design of the point of sale to digital consumer spaces. Finally, the social environment of consumers is also considered, in particular the influence of the family and relevant reference groups on purchasing decisions.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - understand the psychological and social foundations of consumer behavior and their effects on a company`s marketing, thinking holistically; - know the various measurement instruments relevant to consumer behavior; - have gained the ability to apply these instruments, thus strengthening their analytical skills and judgment.
Superior module:
Innovation Management 2
Module description:
-
International Corporate Management & Market Entry Strategies
| Semester | 3 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM3ICMIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | English |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
This course provides students with solid knowledge and practical skills to successfully lead companies in an increasingly globalized and competitive environment. The course highlights the challenges and opportunities arising from the internationalization of businesses and offers a comprehensive overview of the strategic, cultural, and economic aspects of international business management. The focus is on the development and implementation of global strategies, leadership, and the management of international subsidiaries, investments, and partnerships. Students learn how companies operate in global markets, which market entry strategies are promising, and how diversification, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and strategic alliances can be effectively designed. Planning for and shaping the entry into new sales markets is considered one of the most fundamental and at the same time most complex management decisions. Any emerging uncertainties need to be mapped in regard to the opportunities and risks they entail and for how to address the structural, cultural, institutional and activity-related dimensions of these uncertainties. Drawing on a decision-oriented view, this course discusses the following questions: - What are the typical market entry barriers that businesses face? - How can the new service/product portfolios be successfully positioned in the market? - What are the available institutional market entry options? - Which benefits and drawbacks come along with the respective timing strategies? - What legal aspects need to be considered when entering a commercial market? - Is it necessary to develop specific market entry competencies? - Which particularities must service providers as well as small and medium-sized enterprises be aware of?
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will have: - deepened their understanding of the markets as economic, political, social and cultural arenas and how internationalization and globalization trends are reflected in the institutional, structural and cultural foundations of these economic fields; - learned, drawing on this knowledge base, about market entry strategies; - the ability to discuss these strategies and develop implementation criteria; - gained insights, through application-oriented analyses, into the multidimensional uncertainties of market entry strategies; and - acquired the skills to systematically interpret and assess structures and causalities.
Superior module:
Management & Leadership 2
Module description:
-
International Economics
| Semester | 3 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM3INEIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | English |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
This course discusses the determining factors and effects of increasingly internationalized economic activities and their regional connections, along with the requirements for international competitiveness and benefits of an international division of labor. It highlights the opportunities and challenges for businesses due to the growing internationalization of trade and production within an open economy: the opportunities of tapping into new source and sales markets and the advantages of segmenting value chains across borders on the one hand, and the challenges of heightened competition as market integration intensifies on the other hand. As corporate complexity management aims to navigate these evolving international economic relationships and operationalize opportunities and risks, this course explores the dynamics of international markets. To illustrate the interconnectedness of the world and the growing significance of these international contexts for corporate decision-making, this course will address the following aspects: - foreign trade theory - structures, borders and globalization critique - digitalization and sustainability as drivers of globalization or re-regionalization - processes and crises of market integration, in particular in a European context - implications of the increasing global integration of corporate decision making - requirements for achieving international competitiveness - goals and types of international involvement / transnational business relations considering procurement, sales, and financing conditions specific to industry and nation
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - have gained deep insights into the changes and risks businesses and corporate decision makers face in a corporate environment, especially taking into account changing framework conditions for entrepreneurial action, e.g. internationalizing economic activities and increased market integration, emerging competition, the relevance of digitalization for international economic relations, changing consumer behavior, shortened product life and innovation cycles with the resulting need to innovate, as well as the requirements of a sustainable economy; - have the ability, by drawing on these insights, to identify, analyze, and assess for decision making the opportunities and risks that management is likely to face from external changes, increased complexity and dynamics; - have trained their analytical and assessment skills by applying these newly acquired insights as the course requires them not only to internalize the information presented but also to actively use it; - have gained awareness of existing global economic ties; - know how to analyze and assess the requirements of international innovation competition for businesses operating internationally; - understand that, due to these external shifts, management requirements are constantly exposed to change and risk; - have learned to identify leverage points to ensure business success in ever-changing environments; - be aware of the importance of innovative solutions and proactive management.
Superior module:
Management & Leadership 2
Module description:
-
Leadership in Complex Situations
| Semester | 3 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM3FKSIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 2 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
This course teaches and develops practical leadership strategies and skills to meet the challenges of modern leadership roles. The focus is on coping with complex, dynamic, and demanding situations that can arise in managers' day-to-day work, such as - having critical conversations - first-time assumption of leadership positions - resistance to change: analyzing causes of resistance, dealing with uncertainties - dealing with employees from different generations - leading at a distance: productivity in remote teams
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - be able to deal adequately with difficult leadership situations; - know approaches and procedures for conducting critical conversations; - be able to actively shape their entry into leadership positions; - be able to analyze resistance; and - foster productivity in virtual teams. The practical content enables students to reflect on their leadership behavior, develop their leadership skills in a targeted manner and adapt their behavior to the dynamic challenges.
Superior module:
Management & Leadership 2
Module description:
-
Master`s Thesis Coaching Seminar
| Semester | 3 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM3BMASE |
| Type | SE |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 1 |
| ECTS Credits | 1 |
| Examination character | final |
Lecture content:
Within this seminar, students start their master`s process by choosing a topic and a supervisor for their master`s thesis. Additionally, students will be informed about the content and organizational requirements of the master's process. The focus is on preparing the thesis proposal ("Exposé") for the master's thesis. Successful completion of the course is evidenced by approval of the proposal.
Learning Outcomes:
In writing a master's thesis proposal, students acquire advanced skills that go beyond the foundational skills they developed in the bachelor's program. Upon completion of this seminar, students will have gained the skills and abilities to: - develop a coherent and logically structured concept for the master's thesis that clearly presents the research question, objectives, methodology, and planned results; - identify and narrow down a complex, current, and academically relevant topic and position it within a larger research context; - develop a clearly formulated, innovative, and exacting research question or hypothesis; - comprehensively and systematically search for relevant specialist literature, critically evaluate it, and embed it within the theoretical framework of their thesis; - select and justify a suitable scientific method for the thesis and plan its application; - plan a realistic work process for the master's thesis, create a timetable, and structure the individual steps; - formulate complex content precisely, factually, and in scientific language, taking into account the specific requirements of a master`s degree program.
Superior module:
Master`s Thesis
Module description:
-
New Leadership Approaches
| Semester | 3 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM3ANLIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
This course teaches advanced knowledge of innovative and future-oriented leadership approaches in response to the challenges of a dynamic, globalized, and technology-driven working world. Building on an understanding of traditional leadership approaches, the course focuses on leadership models that meet the needs of modern organizations. The course covers newer leadership approaches such as - agile and ambidextrous leadership: principles, tools, and methods - servant leadership: focus on employees - emotionally intelligent leadership: the importance of empathy, self-regulation, and social skills for managers - systemic leadership: organizations as complex systems, interactions of relationships, and promotion of self-organization - digital leadership and leadership in virtual and hybrid work environments Through personal leadership reflection, students develop their own preferred leadership approach.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will have learned to: - understand newer leadership approaches, agile and ambidextrous leadership models, and the concept of servant leadership; - apply what they have learned in a dynamic, globalized working environment; - integrate elements of emotional intelligence, empathy, and social skills into their leadership behavior and understand approaches to systemic leadership; - understand digital leadership, virtual and hybrid work environments, and leadership at a distance; - create their own individual leadership profile through personal leadership reflection; and - further their continued development.
Superior module:
Management & Leadership 2
Module description:
-
Financial Risks & Instruments
| Semester | 3 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM3FRIIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 3 |
| ECTS Credits | 4 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
This course focuses on identifying, measuring, and managing the most important financial risks, with a particular focus on sustainability risks. The following aspects are covered: - financial risk management fundamentals: types of financial risks, risk management process - methods for quantifying financial risks - interdependencies between specific risks and the overall risk position as well as sustainability risks - development of risk management strategies (including change processes) and their implementation - financial transactions to hedge/limit risks (forward transactions, swaps, options) - analysis, situation-appropriate evaluation and use of hedging instruments - credit risk management in banks and companies
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - have gained a comprehensive overview of the financial risks and their connection to sustainability risks to which a company is exposed; - be able to identify financial risks and their economic causes in a practical context; - know the most important methods for assessing financial risks, in particular currency risks, interest rate risks, and credit risks; - be able to derive, analyze, critically evaluate, select, and implement risk management strategies appropriate to the situation; - be familiar with financial instruments (derivatives) for risk hedging, understand how they work, be able to assess and use them to manage risk; - in doing so, adopt an integrated perspective of the company as a whole, as they will be aware of the linkage and interrelationships with other operational areas and will know that ultimately all risks (including operational risks) have negative effects on the company's financial situation.
Superior module:
Financial Management 2
Module description:
-
Selected Topics in Accounting & Sustainability Reporting
| Semester | 3 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM3STAIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | English |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
The course focuses on methods, instruments and models of balance sheet analysis with regard to inherent risks, including sustainability and climate risks, on assets and liabilities as well as conveying a holistic understanding of the relationships between risk identification and management, with a particular focus on financial statements. Building on this, further special topics and problem areas of accounting and group accounting are addressed, as well as current problem areas and challenges of sustainability reporting. The course focuses on the following contents: - regulatory requirements to limit accounting fraud and errors - error and manipulation vulnerability in the approach as well as in the initial and subsequent assessments of risk-charged balance sheet items - identification of procedural and rule-based balance sheet risks in the individual and consolidated financial statements and determination of suitable precautionary measures - raising awareness of environmental, social and governance (ESG) risks in the balance sheet and their impact - sustainability reporting (implementation of ESG reporting and the EU Taxonomy Regulation)
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - be aware of risks related to individual and consolidated financial statements, including ESG risks; - have gained an overview of the risk-charged balance sheet items and be able to analyze these using appropriate methods, tools, and models while honoring the accounting policies; - understand the conceptual intention of relevant requirements regarding risks in financial statements; - be able to identify and assess risk exposure in financial and non-financial reporting despite dynamics of regulatory changes; - have developed their decision-making and problem-solving skills, due to having explored the regulatory framework of norms, particularly in relation to sustainability reports.
Superior module:
Financial Management 2
Module description:
-
Special Aspects of Management Accounting & Budgeting
| Semester | 3 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM3SACIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
With regard to comprehensive management control systems, various instruments are used to support managers in planning, management, and control. In a volatile and uncertain business world in particular, such instruments are becoming increasingly important for company-wide coordination and holistic achievement of targets. The focus of the course is on: - evaluation and interaction of the various management control systems - developing, deploying, and maintaining formal and informal management control systems - behavior control through management control systems - selected strategic and operational control instruments - special cases and alternative budgeting methods - case studies from business practice
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - understand management control as a comprehensive approach to supporting companies in achieving their goals; - be able to select suitable control instruments and adapt them to the respective corporate context; - be familiar with different budgeting approaches and be able to select and implement these according to requirements; - have trained their analytical and problem-solving skills through case studies
Superior module:
Financial Management 2
Module description:
-
Sustainable Finance
| Semester | 3 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM3SFIIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | English |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 2 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
The transition of the global economy towards greater sustainability depends heavily on the requirements of investors. The consideration of sustainability criteria by investors, e.g. when banks grant loans or when selecting assets in the portfolio, influences the behavior of those seeking capital. At the same time, capital that is consciously made available for sustainable investments can trigger sustainable changes (e.g. climate-friendly initiatives, female empowerment, poverty reduction). The following aspects are covered: - governance, CSR, ESG and finance: influence on investors and borrowers; - (regulatory) framework conditions: United Nations SDGs, EU Taxonomy, Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation, ESG ratings, Non-Financial Reporting Directive, etc.; - financial literacy and the associated positive effects on reducing (old age) poverty, better provision, green investments, etc.; - microcredit and its role in achieving the SDGs, especially poverty reduction through entrepreneurship, female empowerment, improving the living conditions of children; - impact investing or socially responsible investing and its contribution to achieving the SDGs via green finance, climate finance, etc.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course, students will: - know drivers of sustainability orientation in finance; - understand the financial relevancy of sustainability orientation, the pressure exercised by investors, politics, and NGOs to increasingly consider sustainability aspects that companies and financial intermediaries are exposed to; - understand the potential positive effects of a sustainability orientation as suggested by the SDGs on a corporate level as well as from a more holistic viewpoint; - have learned systematic and holistic thinking, by comprehensively discussing the topics mentioned along with their many interfaces to facilitate sustainability on different levels (diversity, female empowerment, fighting poverty, climate change); and - know about the relevance and role of sustainable finance for nudging positive change in terms of governance as well as ecological and social aspects.
Superior module:
Financial Management 2
Module description:
-
Circular Service & Product Design
| Semester | 3 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM3ZSPIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
This course offers students a deep insight into the principles and methods of circular design. It shows how companies can contribute to resource conservation and waste avoidance through innovative product and service design. The focus of the course is on integrating sustainability aspects into the entire product life cycle, from the design stage to recycling. Students learn how they can achieve both ecological and economic benefits through design strategies such as modularity, repairability, and reusability. Another focus is on designing circular services. Practical case studies and projects give students the opportunity to directly apply circular thinking and develop concrete solutions. The course promotes critical thinking and the ability to develop sustainable innovations in a corporate strategy context.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will have: - acquired a deep understanding of the principles of circular design; - learned how sustainability is integrated throughout the product life cycle; - gained the ability to apply design strategies such as modularity and repairability to achieve environmental and economic benefits; - developed concrete solutions and improved their critical thinking through practical case studies; and - learned to integrate sustainable innovations into the corporate strategy
Superior module:
Management of Sustainable Value Creation 2
Module description:
-
Customer Relationship Management
| Semester | 3 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM3KBMIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
In this course, students gain an understanding of the challenges and solutions in strategic and digitized customer management, particularly in the context of technology and sustainability. They learn about methods and concepts such as digital customer acquisition, cross-selling, customer loyalty, and complaint management. The course covers the customer relationship model (CRM) and the difference between descriptive (past performance-based) and predictive (forecast-based) customer analytics. Students gain knowledge of key customer management strategies and the challenges of implementing value-based customer management and develop skills to derive strategies based on customer lifetime value and customer equity, taking into account sustainable practices.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will have acquired: - knowledge of the tasks that CRM managers have to handle in the context of market-based and sustainable strategy development and their (digital) implementation; - the ability to formulate customer-oriented and long-term goals aimed at sustainability and to measure their impact using operational market research; - holistic thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving skills, with a special focus on integrating sustainable practices into customer management.
Superior module:
Management of Sustainable Value Creation 2
Module description:
-
Supply Chain Risk Management
| Semester | 3 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM3SCRIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | English |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
This course provides students with in-depth knowledge and skills required to effectively identify, assess, and manage risks throughout the supply chain. Students gain an overview of the approaches, tasks, and procedures in the risk management process. The different supply chain risks, their sources, and the management of these risks are covered. The methods and procedures of supply chain risk management and the associated decision-making levels are elaborated and discussed using case studies.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will have acquired - the necessary technical expertise and analytical skills to gain an overview of the various risks in the supply chain; - knowledge of the methods and procedures for identifying, analyzing, and assessing risks; and - knowledge of how companies deal with these risks in supply chains on an operational level.
Superior module:
Management of Sustainable Value Creation 2
Module description:
-
Sustainable Procurement Management
| Semester | 3 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM3NBMIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 3 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
This course focuses on strategic questions and approaches to identify business opportunities in the context of shaping a company`s value creation processes, followed by ways to make these processes sustainable through design and optimization. Students learn about key elements, such as the contribution of procurement to product design, vertical and horizontal digital integration in the value creation process, and the opportunities of a digital supply chain for new services and business models. The course also covers special aspects of procurement, such as negotiation management in procurement or what to pay particular attention to in capital goods procurement. In addition to the theoretical models and concepts, practical ways to implement them are also discussed or presented and discussed on the basis of excursions and/or case studies.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will have acquired: - detailed knowledge of the various options for sustainable value creation in procurement and supply chain management; - the ability to recognize the possibilities and opportunities in shaping sustainable value chains; - advanced practical experience of how these can be implemented; - broad specialist knowledge of how procurement can influence important strategic decisions in the company; - analytical skills and the ability to make judgments, especially with regard to aspects of sustainability, based on practical examples; and - enhanced systemic, holistic thinking.
Superior module:
Management of Sustainable Value Creation 2
Module description:
-
Compensation & Benefits in the Digital World of Work
| Semester | 3 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM3CBDIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
The requirements for compensation and benefit systems are fundamentally changing. This course examines the current challenges and opportunities of compensation and benefits in the context of the Future of Work and increasingly flexible work arrangements. Based on current challenges faced by companies or practical case studies, problems in the context of compensation and benefits are analyzed and potential solutions developed with the support of AI tools. These solutions are then presented and critically reflected upon. The course content includes: - traditional compensation systems in a new world of work: risks, challenges, and legal framework conditions; - strategic alignment of Compensation & Benefits (C&B): C&B strategy as part of the overall corporate strategy, interfaces with processes within the employee journey, performance measurement; - Future of Work - New Pay: flexible compensation models, skill-based compensation, transparent compensation systems; - digital tools and technologies for developing salary structure models and salary studies; - future perspectives and trends: use of AI to automate processes, personalized benefits, blockchain technology, ethical aspects; - identification of central Key Performance Indicators (KPI) in the context of compensation & benefits and their visualization in dashboards.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - understand the transformation of compensation and benefit systems in the context of the Future of Work; - know the effects of digitization and flexibilization on C&B models and be able to identify challenges; - know the key legal framework parameters; - be able to develop C&B strategies in their organizations or with organizations that align with the overall corporate strategy; - be able to use digital tools and technologies to develop innovative compensation concepts and know how these can be used to develop salary structures and studies; - be able to critically reflect on future trends, including AI and blockchain, and evaluate their potential use in the context of C&B.
Superior module:
People Management 2
Module description:
-
People Development & Talent Management
| Semester | 3 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM3PTMIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
New work requirements, technological change and digital learning opportunities require managers to rethink their people development strategies. Based on current challenges faced by companies or practical case studies, problems in the context of people development and talent management are analyzed and potential solutions developed with the support of AI tools. These solutions are then presented and critically reflected upon. The course content includes: - competence-oriented people development: competence development with digital learning formats and content, learning transfer and knowledge documentation; - use of technology in people development: learning analytics and learning management systems, AI in people development (chatbots, virtual coaches), virtual and augmented reality (VR & AR); - trends, challenges, and opportunities in people development: ethical aspects, digital learning culture in organizations; - talent management: technology-supported development of talent management strategies; - identification of central KPIs for people development and talent management and their visualization in dashboards.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - be able to use digital tools and AI to develop strategies for people development and talent management; - be able to use contemporary learning formats and tools in a targeted manner and thus contribute to a digital learning culture in organizations; - be familiar with ethical issues and challenges and be able to take these into account when designing people development and talent management strategies; - be able to reflect on their own learning strategies and develop practical solutions for using technology responsibly and efficiently in people development and talent management.
Superior module:
People Management 2
Module description:
-
Supporting Transformation as an HR Business Partner and Manager
| Semester | 3 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM3TBHIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
The economic and social environment of today`s organizations is described by the BANI paradigm: Brittle, Anxious, Non-linear, and Incomprehensible. In this dynamic context, HR business partners and managers need to actively and competently shape transformative change. This course teaches skills for recognizing and diagnosing the need for change. The contents of this course are: - systemic and action research-oriented approach to dealing with change for individuals, teams, and organizations - recognizing the need for change and taking the initiative - developing, clarifying, and owning one¿s role(s) - theories of organizational culture and diagnostic methods in organizational development (OD) processes - carrying out a cultural analysis as a diagnostic tool
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will have acquired the skills and abilities to: - recognize and actively shape change by adopting a systemic and action research approach; - develop, clarify, and own their role in transformation processes; - understand theories of organizational culture and diagnostic methods in OE processes; and - carry out a cultural analysis as a diagnostic tool.
Superior module:
People Management 2
Module description:
-
Talent Acquisition & Digital Sourcing
| Semester | 3 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM3TADIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | English |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
Attracting talent is one of today's top business challenges. In a dynamic and increasingly complex company world, talent acquisition and digital sourcing strategies have become even more relevant for sustainable competitive advantage. Based on a real-life case study students develop comprehensive skill sets to create and implement compelling talent acquisition and sourcing strategies that are aligned with business priorities. This course will cover the following topics: - role and tasks of a talent acquisition expert - strategic workforce planning - sourcing techniques & recruitment marketing - selection processes - designing candidate experience & journey - recruiting technologies (applicant tracking systems, generative AI) - identification of key performance indicators in recruiting and visualization in dashboards
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - be familiar with the essential concepts and methods of digital talent acquisition; - be able to apply sourcing techniques to identify and engage suitable candidates; - possess the skills to strategically plan and execute the selection process in order to recruit long-term suitable talent for organizations; - have developed solution-oriented approaches based on case studies to sustainably optimize talent acquisition strategies; - take responsibility for the development and implementation of holistic, technology-driven acquisition processes and be capable of continuously evaluating and improving them.
Superior module:
People Management 2
Module description:
-
Master`s Final Examination
| Semester | 4 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM4MAPDP |
| Type | DP |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 0 |
| ECTS Credits | 2 |
| Examination character | final |
Lecture content:
The master`s final examination ("Masterabschlussprüfung") consists of three parts: - Presentation of the contents and results of the master's thesis in English, followed by a discussion on the chosen thesis topic (defense) with the exam committee. - Discussion with the second examiner on connections between the topic of the thesis and the subjects of the student`s chosen specialization and/or other relevant content from the chosen specialization. - Discussion with the chairperson on general business management questions.
Learning Outcomes:
The aim of the master`s final exam is for the student to demonstrate the following skills: - structured and argued presentation of the main contents and results of the master's thesis in English; - argumentative defense of the contents and the conceptual-theoretical and methodological foundations of the thesis ("Defensio"); - application of knowledge from the chosen specialization to new problems (knowledge transfer); and - sound knowledge of general business management.
Superior module:
Master`s Final Examination
Module description:
-
Master`s Thesis Colloquium
| Semester | 4 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM4KMASE |
| Type | SE |
| Kind | Compulsory |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 2 |
| Examination character | final |
Lecture content:
This colloquium covers the process of writing a master's thesis, starting with the thesis proposal ("Exposé"). Structured as a seminar, the course offers students the opportunity to discuss topics such as citation, plagiarism, timetables, and common mistakes with the lecturer. On a general level, important aspects of a master's thesis are discussed to support students in planning, creating, and finalizing their thesis. Organizationally, the final process is discussed, with special consideration of the assessment criteria and the final master's examination. The Master`s Thesis Colloquium thus serves as a platform for exchange between students and other participants. It offers the opportunity to clarify uncertainties, obtain feedback, and critically reflect on their own work in order to improve the quality of the thesis.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will have learned to: - realistically plan the work process for a master's thesis, set milestones, and monitor progress; - work independently and in a structured manner on an extensive project while meeting deadlines; - recognize and analyze scientific and methodological challenges and develop solutions; - critically question the relevance and scientific contribution of their work; - adhere to academic standards, especially with regard to citation, plagiarism, and data handling; - apply scientific findings to practical issues or other disciplines; and - make informed decisions regarding research questions, methods, and the work process.
Superior module:
Master`s Thesis
Module description:
-
Master¿s Thesis
| Semester | 4 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM4MAAIT |
| Type | IT |
| Kind | Diploma/master thesis |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 0 |
| ECTS Credits | 20 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
Writing a master`s thesis enables students to independently plan, carry out, and complete a complex academic project. They acquire in-depth specialist, methodological, and interdisciplinary skills that qualify them for both academic and professional challenges. Thus the master`s thesis serves as proof that students are able to work on a challenging research project independently and at a high academic level.
Learning Outcomes:
The learning outcomes reflect the requirements of a final scientific project at the master`s level, preparing students for challenging professional or academic activities. Upon completion students will have acquired: - the ability to independently write a scientific paper that meets the standards of the respective specialist area; - an in-depth understanding of a specific topic within their subject area and can place it in a scientific context; - the skills to select and apply suitable scientific methods and interpret their results; - the ability to critically question and evaluate scientific theories, methods and results; - the skills to collect and analyze empirical or theoretical data and to draw scientifically sound conclusions; - the ability to work independently and in a structured manner on a long-term project, while meeting deadlines; - the competence to defend their own work and its results and respond to critical questions; - the ability to place the topic of the master`s thesis in a broader scientific, social or interdisciplinary context; - the ability to conduct independent research and make academic contributions as preparation for a potential PhD or further academic activities.
Superior module:
Master`s Thesis
Module description:
-
Business Analytics & Management Reporting
| Semester | 4 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM4BAMIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | English |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
This course discusses the effects of digitalization on management accounting and financial management. It highlights the requirements and challenges that have arisen due to digital transformation and, at the same time, illustrates opportunities of new analyses. It covers business-model and corporate analyses along with how to map, plan, and evaluate these. The course explains methods, tools, and programs relevant for business practice that are predominantly used to process and evaluate historical financial information, as well as to forecast budgeting. Another focus is on analyzing and visualizing data as part of management reporting. Current methods relevant in practice, tools and programs are used to evaluate and process past financial information and to forecast future planning calculations using sensitivity and scenario analyses.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will have learned to: - understand the relevance of data along with the possibilities to analyze these in the context of management accounting and financial management, as well as for operations management; - recognize the transformed requirements profile for corporate management that has arisen due to digitalization as well as current potentials of IT analyses; - solve practical operational and financial problems by applying relevant methods, tools, and programs. Additionally, they will have been sensitized to automated and machine-generated recommendations for action.
Superior module:
Financial Management 3
Module description:
-
Mergers & Acquisitions
| Semester | 4 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM4MAAIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | English |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
This course discusses the particularities of preparing and executing mergers & acquisitions. It not only explores the finance and investment related aspects of this type of transaction but also considers ESG-related criteria and the behavioral-scientific findings regarding this transaction process along with the particularities in a dynamic and cyclic M&A context. The course focuses on the following aspects: - theoretical foundations of Mergers & Acquisitions - regulating M&A aspects and legal dimensions - participating agents - structure of M&A processes: industry and company analyses, business valuation, due diligence, business auditing, execution process, post-merger integration, M&A control - financing M&A activities and buy-outs
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - be aware of the agents, process, and framework conditions of Mergers & Acquisitions; - understand the essential transaction forms, trends, and tactics in M&A processes; - know how to apply their insights in an increasingly uncertain business environment; - know how to assess the opportunity and risk potentials that M&A processes entail for all parties involved; - be able to meet the demands of a corporate merger in special circumstances; - be aware of the fast pace of an M&A transaction, which they will be able to overcome due to their heightened resilience and stress tolerance; - have developed their systemic and holistic thinking, as the transaction process is discussed from a triangular viewpoint; and - have increased their goal orientation as well as their decision-making and problem-solving skills as they have to assess their courses of action in the transaction process based on information that is, by nature, incomplete.
Superior module:
Financial Management 3
Module description:
-
Sustainable Value Creation in Practice
| Semester | 4 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM4NWAIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
In this course, students will work on a topical issue from research and business practice. Key topics include sustainable supply chains, circular product design, supplier and customer management, and implementation of circular business models. Students will research relevant background information and collect and analyze data independently using suitable methods. They will then present their results. Particular attention is paid to measuring and assessing sustainable business practices and the application of relevant KPIs.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will have: - acquired the ability to work independently on topical issues related to sustainable value creation and derive solutions on this basis; - learned to collect relevant data, analyze it using suitable methods, and present the results in a well-informed manner; - improved their goal-oriented, holistic thinking skills; - advanced their decision-making, problem-solving, and analytical skills; - acquired comprehensive knowledge and important skills with regard to project management, including project documentation; and - broadened their presentation skills.
Superior module:
Management of Sustainable Value Creation 3
Module description:
-
Value Creation through Co-Creation on Digital Platforms
| Semester | 4 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM4WCCIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 3 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
This course deals with the opportunities and risks of digitalization and automation of supply chain management (SCM) processes. The latest tools and technologies are presented, and their possible applications are demonstrated. For example, the concept of smart contracts or the use of negotiation avatars are addressed and the possible applications and limitations of new digital technologies are explained. Another focus is on the crucial role of digital platforms in implementing the circular economy, with platforms that enable the exchange, return, recycling, and reuse of products and materials taking center stage. In addition, the possible applications of technologies such as IoT, blockchain, and artificial intelligence in digital circular systems are discussed from a business management perspective. Students learn how platforms contribute to optimizing business models through, for example, product-as-a-service models, and what challenges and opportunities are associated with their use.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - know what opportunities and potential are associated with digitizing SCM processes, yet will also be able to recognize the disadvantages and risks; - be able to assess the possible applications and also know when digitalization or automation is not expedient; - be able to provide significant impetus for digital transformation in the area of procurement and SCM, and will have acquired the necessary technical and analytical skills to do so; - have learned about the crucial role of digital platforms in the circular economy, particularly with regard to the exchange, return, and recycling of products and the reuse of materials; and - understand how technologies such as IoT, blockchain, and artificial intelligence can be used in digital circular systems for business purposes.
Superior module:
Management of Sustainable Value Creation 3
Module description:
-
Intervention Methods: Organization, Team, Individual
| Semester | 4 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM4IOTIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
This course provides theoretical and practical knowledge for planning, implementing, and evaluating targeted interventions in organizational development (OD) projects. It combines scientific principles of intervention methods with application-oriented methods and promotes the ability to shape transformative processes in complex systems. The course covers the following: - fundamentals of intervention in organizational development; - intervention methods at the organizational level (large-group methods such as Open Space, Future Conference); - intervention methods at the team level (e.g. team development, workshop); - intervention methods at the individual level (e.g. coaching, mentoring); - evaluation and implementation of interventions in day-to-day operations at the organizational level; - reflection on the goals and skills developed in the second semester in the areas of Management & Leadership, Innovation Management, and Digital Transformation.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course, students will: - know how to plan, implement and evaluate interventions in OD projects; - be able to apply intervention methods at the organizational, team, and individual level, including large-group methods, team development, and coaching; - be able to design and evaluate interventions in OD projects and implement them in everyday organizational life; - know how to define, develop, and use these methods in even more targeted ways to strengthen their own resilience and that of the team and the organization, thanks to the coaching sessions held during the course and by consolidating individual development goals from the aforementioned focus areas. The mentoring sessions are based on the "Coaching and Mentoring" course in the second semester. In the second semester the focus is on coaching, while the focus in the fourth semester is on mentoring.
Superior module:
People Management 3
Module description:
-
Performance Management
| Semester | 4 |
|---|---|
| Academic year | 2 |
| Course code | BWBM4PEMIL |
| Type | IL |
| Kind | Elective |
| Language of instruction | German |
| SWS | 2 |
| ECTS Credits | 3 |
| Examination character | immanent |
Lecture content:
This course provides a comprehensive overview of strategies, methods, and instruments for systematically improving performance in companies in order to achieve individual and organizational goals. Performance management problems are examined by analyzing current business challenges and practical case studies. Solutions are developed using current AI tools to increase efficiency while taking into account the social and emotional factors of employees. This dual perspective makes it possible to effectively integrate technologies while promoting the human element. The course covers the following: - shaping the HR organization in ways that add value; - flexibility and agility concepts and practices in the workplace to improve teamwork and the efficiency and effectiveness of cross-departmental collaboration; - developing KPIs or Objectives & Key Results (OKRs) to measure and manage value creation in the organization; - digital aspects of performance management: use of digital solutions to increase productivity and visualize results using dashboards (e.g. MS Power BI software).
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course students will: - be able to structure performance management in practice in ways that add value; - be able to create an efficient HR organization; - know and understand concepts of flexible and agile forms of work; - be able to apply these concepts in practice and assess their potential for improving teamwork and increasing efficiency and effectiveness in cross-departmental collaboration; and - be able to develop KPIs and OKRs and measure and control value creation in performance management using digital solutions and dashboards.
Superior module:
People Management 3
Module description:
-
| Legend | |
| Semester | Semesters 1, 3, 5: courses held only in winter semester (mid-September to end of January), Semesters 2, 4, 6: courses held only in summer semester (mid-February to end of June) |
| SWS | weekly contact hours over 14 weeks in semester (example SWS 2 equals 28 contact hours for the whole course |
| ECTS Credits | Work load in ECTS credits, 1 ECTS credit equals an estimated 25 hours of work for the student |
| Type | BP = Bachelor final exam DP/MP = Master final exam IL = Lecture with integrated project work IT = Individual training/phases LB = Lab (session) PS = Pro-seminar PT = Project RC = Course with integrated reflective practice RE = Revision course SE = Seminar TU = Tutorial UB = Practice session/Subject practical sessions VO = Lecture |