Global Sustainability and Circular Business* bachelor degree programme

At the end of this module students are able to:

· identify and explain the four management functions, key business concepts, leadership levels, milestones in management history, and the academic context of business administration,
· elaborate on Human Resource Management tasks, recruitment methods, onboarding, personnel development, compensation methods and downsizing causes, as well as analyse personnel assessment criteria and diversity's role in HR management,     
· describe organizational structure elements, organizational cultures, causes of organizational change, types of change and the role of structure and culture in specific cases as well as identify change management models and resistance to change.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· explain the principles of financial accounting and apply double-entry accounting for effective documentation,
· identify and illustrate corporate reporting duties, conduct comprehensive financial analyses for service and manufacturing companies, considering perspectives of both investors and shareholders, and perform financial analyses of B-t-B supplier-buyer relationships in the manufacturing sector,
· apply knowledge in controlling, financial ratios, business intelligence systems, financial reporting evaluation, business structure differentiation, budget preparation and analysis, performance measurement, and benchmark-based company comparisons.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· explain current social, ecological and economic trends, challenges and social change within the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and analyse more sustainable and fair approaches for societies,
· describe and assess the main controversies around sustainability and sustainable development, e.g. north vs south, current vs. future generations, absolute vs. relative limits and strong vs. weak sustainability as well as the history of and different definitions on sustainability,
· discuss values of sustainable leadership, elucidate practical tools for sustainability implementation and ethics in leadership, including the "Framework for Strategic Sustainable Development" (FSSD), and engage in discussions about their role in contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals within the realms of social, economic, ecologic, and cultural sustainability,
· critically evaluate the role of leadership in addressing future societal challenges in society and discuss its contribution to sustainable development.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· distinguish between qualitative and quantitative research methods, applying quality criteria (evidence) to evaluate research approaches, and identifying and explaining the essential components of various qualitative and quantitative methodologies,
· define and select appropriate sampling methods and explain the structure of research studies, and the foundational principles governing the measurement of constructs in research studies,  
· describe, organize, and apply different phases of the empirical social research process, to locate relevant literature, skillfully cite sources, discuss the standard structural elements of a scientific work, and summarize ethical considerations with regard to research and data protection,
· use library resources and sources from govermental and non govermental institutions (e.g. EU, OECD, UN, ESS,...) specific to business and sustainability topics, arrange reference lists through applying reference management software and describe the fundamental structure of academic paper and implement source material into their writing suitable for an academic audience.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· explain the principles of the circular economy, with a focus on recycling, polution prevention and resource recovery, and recognize resource conservation as a fundamental element for business model innovation,
· analyse the role of business organisations, consumers, and regulators in the complete lifecycle of a product and strategies for integrating circular principles into global supply chain networks and critically evaluate solutions for sustainable procurement and logistics, operations and marketing in the context of circular value chain management,
· elaborate on circularity strategies that consider both short-term gains and long-term environmental and social benefits.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· explain and analyze consumer behavior, solving the problem of utility maximization, including graphically addressing the impacts of price and income changes on consumption choices,
· explain and analyze firm behavior, solving the problem of profit maximization under perfect competition and monopoly both graphically and mathematically, as well as market failure and the role of government, focusing on externalities and public goods, and elaborate on various policies from an economic perspective,    
· collect, calculate, and interpret macroeconomic data on GDP, inflation, and unemployment, allowing for a comprehensive understanding and analysis of key macroeconomic indicators, and to apply economic models to comprehend current and past macroeconomic trends, identifying suitable strategies in response to these trends,
· explain the circular flow model, describe the phases of the business cycle, elaborate on the determinants of goods and financial markets at the aggregate level, and analyze the impacts of financial and monetary policies on the economy, furthermore to identify determinants of economic growth over time, enabling them to examine factors contributing to sustained economic development, to explain and apply macroeconomic principles within a broader context.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· to explain the role of legal systems, clarify legal terminology, and provide a structured overview of the Austrian legal system (Legislative, Executive, and Judiciary) and European Community law, including an introduction to General Data Protection Regulation, public law, legal sources, the creation of law, and the hierarchy of legal systems,
· describe the basics of private law, including legal subjects, capacity to contract, and fundamental principles of contract and tort law, additionally, furthermore illustrate the basics of European Community law, criminal law, and other legal systems,    
· select and discuss appropriate legal forms for different business scenarios, recognise legal risk potentials (e.g., liability), minimize risks through strategic planning, design exemplary organizational structures.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· use spreadsheet programs and statistical software to solve economic problems using formulas, functions and diagrams,
· describe and analyse the distribution of a variable, identify & interpret relationships among variables,
· explain probability concepts and distributions, make decisions under conditions of uncertainty,
· carry out random samples and derive conclusions using statistical hypothesis tests.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· explain and apply environmental standards and concepts such as biodiversity, ecosystem dynamics and the impact of human activities on natural systems,
· explain terms such as carbon neutrality, green labelling and greenwashing and the transition away from fossil fuels, particularly in the context of Scope 3 emissions in the supply chain,
· elaborate on the fundamentals of environmental accounting, emphasizing the significance of effective communication regarding environmental matters and performance indicators, and adeptly use globally acknowledged standards for environmental management in simulated environments,
· differentiate the responsibilities associated with waste management and exhibit a foundational comprehension of waste legislation, regulations, waste minimization techniques, recycling practices, and disposal methodologies, carry out and evaluate documentation and reporting requirements, including the formulation of waste management plans.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· explain the fundamental concepts of inclusion and diversity management, including critical diversity management, and apply written and oral communication techniques and skills to resolve conflicts in the context of diversity management,
· summarize the relevant national and international laws and guidelines that impact inclusion and diversity and illustrate their practical application in organizations,
· analyze inclusion and diversity case studies to identify best practices and challenges,
· to reflect and evaluate personal attitudes, values and prejudices in relation to inclusion and diversity.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· analyse team dynamics, categorize the different roles in a group and explain what effect they have,
· apply effective communication skills within teams, including active listening, clear expression of ideas, and constructive feedback,
· identify conflicts in team environments and apply effective conflict resolution strategies that promote productive and harmonious group dynamics.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· analyze various types of systems, including linear, non-linear, dynamic, uncoupled, and coupled systems, as well as spatial systems, and apply system theory principles to identify interconnections, feedback loops, and emergent behaviors within complex systems,
· use complexity theories, chaos theory, and the VUCA environment framework to evaluate challenges posed by wicked problems and uncertainty in complex systems,
· develop concepts to model system dynamics and complexity, creating diagrams and mapping elements and design policies addressing sustainability and risks in real-world dynamic organizational settings.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· classify strategic and tactical marketing decisions as well as basic elements of consumer behavior,
· plan a marketing mix (product, price, communication, distribution) for a given context,
· explain the essential decisions of the marketing mix,
· develop market research projects, responsibly apply implementation tools, and evaluate market research results.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· apply numerical formats, units, and measurements accurately, describe common business calculations with objectives such as profitability and time value of money, discuss probability estimates, metrics, and interpret time series data, and explain the benefits and pitfalls of mathematical optimization,
· demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of corporate finance (e.g. sustainable finance) and investment by illustrating the basics, identifying sources, evaluating techniques for investment projects, comparing internal and debt financing, calculating financial key figures, and proficiently conducting investment project evaluations while justifying decisions using various methods,
· analyze financing tools, assess their pros and cons, and determine optimal corporate finance options aligned with specific business strategies or situations.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· describe current developments and trends in emerging technologies (e.g. Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, etc.),
· explain the significance of emerging technologies across various business domains and practical scenarios, identifying IT, cyber and data security-related aspects, as well as ethical and environmental issues,
· explain how key emerging technologies work,
· perform a technological trend analysis amd technological scouting,
· use practical tools, datasets, applications, business information systems - hands-on - allowing them to solve business problems,
· identify appropriate technologies and applications based on a selected business cases and relevant data sets.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· explain global trade and development, trade theories, global value chains, Human Rights in value chains, and the complex relationship between trade policy, tariffs, transportation, and environmental sustainability,
· analyse development economics, explore historical, institutional and financial dimensions, and critically evaluate the role alternative financing for sustainable economic development,
· assess the socio-economic impact of global trade by examining the impact of migration, social factors, war and crime on the trading environment, while also examining the role of voluntary sustainability standards and labels in shaping global trade critically evaluate development.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· apply rhetorical skills to convincingly explain and summarize ideas in a variety of professional settings,
· effectively use body language, self-awareness and self-regulation techniques to perform confidence, authority, and commitment during interpersonal interactions and presentations,
· use language techniques and presentation skills to perform effective and engaging presentations.
· use techniques to identify personal strengths, weaknesses and areas for growth, develop self-awareness and self-regulation skills, and define both short-term and long-term personal and professional goals.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· analyze and explain the physiological and psychological effects of stress on individuals and organizations, including defining and describin stress, its causes, symptoms, and effects on physical and mental health,
· apply various stress management strategies, such as time management techniques, relaxation exercises, mindfulness, problem-solving, and decision-making skills to manage personal stressors effectively,
· develop personalized burnout prevention and self-care plans through self-reflection, evaluate the effectiveness of different stress management strategies and explain the biopsychosocial model of health.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· explain intercultural influences on communication and company management, and identify cultural dimensions and their impact on communication and management practices,
· discuss problems that can arise from cultural differences in international projects or companies, and develop approaches to resolve such issues.
· describe key models of intercultural management and develop strategies for effective communication and collaboration across cultural boundaries.
· recognize challenges associated with intercultural misunderstandings and conflicts, and carry out negotiations effectively in intercultural environments.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· identify and analyse international business models and value chains at the interface between the public sector and the private sector,
· distinguish and assess traditional, digitized and digital business models as well as characteristics of digital markets and services,
· identify and develop new forms of interorganizational business models (e.g. alliances and partnerships, platform economies, virtual organizations, user participation), integrating feasibility studies and calculations to ensure their effectiveness and sustainability.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· explain fundamental concepts in behavioural economics and decision-making, encompassing attribution, social judgments, self-identity, societal influences, rational and irrational decision-making processes, and consumer behaviour,
· carry out and reflect research and scientific publications, thereby facilitating an analysis of social psychological theories and their application,
· apply the main theoretical approaches to behaviour derived from behavioral economics, consumer behaviour and social psychology to various contexts, both general scenarios and business examples, to reflect on the management implications of these concepts and to evaluate decisions in an ethical way.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· illustrate the mechanisms behind generating innovative products and services, identifying necessary partnerships (companies, public institutions and civil society organizations) and funding sources, and define an open innovation approach by means of European and international examples,
· identify and describe innovative social business models, identify and critically analyse areas of action based on international case studies and best practices in order to design sustainable business models to solve social challenges,
· explain the key concepts and principles of social business, including business models, nonprofit and social entrepreneurship concepts, environments for social business, corporate social responsibility, and responsible leadership and structure the complex landscape of socially responsible and sustainable business practices in the global context, exemplifying opportunities and challenges,
· apply empowerment and inclusion strategies including open innovation processes to develop innovative sustainable business models that strengthen communities and promote social inclusion, establish partnerships with companies, public institutions and civil society organizations and apply appropriate methods to achieve the mission and measure and evaluate the global impact of social enterprises, ensuring a holistic focus on ethical, transparent and innovative practices.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· explain and analyse Circular Economy products and services, demonstrating proficiency in understanding Circular Economy principles and evaluate these products and services within the Circular Economy framework,
· apply Design Thinking principles on circular economy cases in both business and public policy contexts,
· elaborate on design, manufacturing, and life cycle stages, emphasizing practical aspects such as use, reuse, repair, remanufacturing, recycling, and waste management, and analyse real-world examples of resource-efficient and circular solutions across various disciplines and stages of the value chain to generate prototypes.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· evaluate the impacts of main groups of materials on the environment at different stages of their life cycle,
· examine key principles underpinning a sustainable system and critique current strategies towards creating a sustainable system in different sectors (i.e., transportation, infrastructure, energy production/storage and energy management),
· apply the life cycle assessment framework to evaluate the use of sustainable technologies and materials,
· discuss their awareness of waste generated by human activities and explain appropriate approaches to minimise human footprint on environment.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· explain development theory in depth and apply international development and cooperation theories to the concept of sustainability,
· illustrate stakeholder relations and different value systems within the landscape of international cooperation for sustainable development,
· contrast and discuss different aid and funding avenues, cultural contexts and sustainable development projects and ultimately evaluate project effectiveness,
· identify and reflect benefits and challenges of sustainable development cooperation, particularly for local communities.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· describe and select identified current issues within the realm of sustainability and circular business, and illustrate their international relevance in economics, society, and research,
· analyse and critically assess the global significance of business operations in addressing economic, environmental, and societal issues,
· apply different types of literature research strategies and research methods to unstructured sustainability issues in the field of ecology of economics, and analyse the key methods related to conceptualizing and writing academic publications,
· create a comprehensive self-study plan to explore contemporary sustainability challenges in-depth, encompassing interantional economic, environmental, and societal dimensions, and apply suitable presentation skills to communicate findings effectively.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· explain sustainable living principles, including the integration of various factors such as housing, transportation, supply and service, communities, and technology, and urban or rural living and working environments, with careful consideration given to environmental, social, and economic factors,
· apply circular design strategies to products and services, including design for durability, disassembly, and remanufacture and use essential tools and frameworks like simplified life cycle assessment (LCA) and circular design software in practical applications within a project environment,
· analyse existing business models and develop innovative circular business model concepts for living and working environments using principles such as product-as-a-service,
· develop sustainable societal solutions embedded in a holistic approach encompassing housing, transportation, supply and service, communities, and technology, and plan and facilitate projects aimed at enhancing urban or rural living and working environments, considering environmental, social, and economic aspects,
· collaborate effectively in teams to apply budgeting, project management tools and circular design thinking to real-world challenges, engaging with stakeholders and effectively communicating circular solutions.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· illustrate the current state of scientific research related to their research question by selecting relevant sources with evidence-based content, performing comprehensive research and presenting specialized (international) literature,
· select appropriate data collection or research approaches and methods for their academic work and apply them correctly, enabling them to derive meaningful conclusions within the context of their research question, and to explain the assess of methods and approaches and their limitations,
· critically reflect on the feedback and suggestions provided by their coach during the creation of the exposé and implement them accordingly, and reflect on the ethical responsibilities of researchers, and present preliminary insights into the research topic by utilizing a set of questions and tasks,
· develop a meaningful project for their academic qualification work in accordance with formal academic requirements that demonstrates a well-founded research question, clear argumentation, and a structured approach to the topic.

At the end of the modules students are able to:

· describe and present the professional field or internship experiences that they learned about during the internship or professional occupation,
· critically reflect on the implementation of the skills acquired during their studies in the light of their professional or internship experiences,
· derive areas of action for their personal, technical and professional development from their experiences in the internship or professional occupation.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· describe and analyse key issues as well as arenas and institutions of international and national climate policy, placing them in a broader political context, and identify different phases of the policy processes in modern societies including forms of regulation and societal control,
· explain, analyse and discuss the political dimensions of global initiatives, global governance, domestic political systems and their integration of institutions and policies,
· use ethical principles to examine regionally, nationally, and globally mediated (political) discourses on sustainability topics through various media and describe the role of citizen engagement/science in the sustainability context,
· apply effective communication strategies to address and disseminate sustainability concerns and research topics in order to raise awareness of the diverse challenges and solutions in the area of sustainability in different (political) settings.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· present their bachelor paper and the question they addressed in a manner appropriate to the target audience, and defend the paper before an expert committee,
· outline the significance of the findings for professional practice and
research, present supporting arguments and discuss the relevance of up-to-date theories, models and data,
· answer follow-up questions on degree-programme subjects and the links
between them, and justify their answers, reflecting on current economic situation.

At the end of this module students are able to:

· independently write a bachelor paper in accordance with content-related and formal academic requirements, reflecting resources and capabilities (time, method comprehension) as well as the access to up-to date information, ethical considerations,
· apply adequate theoretical frameworks and scientific methods from diverse fields such as economics, environmental science, and business management to develop innovative solutions to real-world sustainability issues within a circular business context,
· present complex sustainability concepts, analyses, and recommendations to an academic audience, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the importance of global sustainability and circular business practices.

At the end of the modules students are able to:

· describe and present the professional field or internship experiences that they learned about during the internship or professional occupation,
· critically reflect on the implementation of the skills acquired during their studies in the light of their professional or internship experiences,
· derive areas of action for their personal, technical and professional development from their experiences in the internship or professional occupation.