BERGAMO
Overview
Date/time interval
Syllabus
Course Objectives
Sustainability is commonly defined as meeting the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs (Brundtland Report, 1987). It is characterized by three overarching concerns: maintaining ecological and environmental health; creating economic welfare; and ensuring social justice.
The Sustainable Business course focuses on the role that businesses can play in advancing sustainable development, emphasizing the importance of integrating social, economic, and environmental dimensions into management practices and performance measurement. It introduces students to the principles, practices, management approaches, and reporting techniques related to sustainability, thereby expanding their understanding of the complexity of business administration.
The course is grounded in the belief that dedicated learning about sustainability is the first step toward developing responsible managers and sustainable companies for the future.
Upon successful completion of the module, students will acquire the following skills:
- Understand sustainability as a multidimensional and multilevel concept, and evaluate the role of companies and individuals in contributing to a more sustainable society;
- Assess the complex challenges posed by sustainability from multiple perspectives;
- Apply management and reporting tools to address sustainability-related issues.
Furthermore, in line with the Department of Management’s strategic plan and the TRANSET excellence program, this course introduces students to the concept of transitioning towards more sustainable business models, both environmentally and socially.
Course Prerequisites
Teaching Methods
The module combines traditional teaching and learning strategies, including lectures and seminars, with self-directed study.
All key concepts, tools, and techniques—as well as their practical applications—will be explained and illustrated during lectures and seminars. The learning process will be further enriched through the presentation and discussion of case studies, supported by group interaction.
Lectures will be complemented by seminars led by entrepreneurs and field experts.
During lectures, students will be expected to engage in dialogue and exchange views on a range of topics.
Students may be required to complete directed reading before the module begins, in order to support the content covered in lectures and seminars.
They will also be asked to prepare and actively participate in discussions based on specific case studies.
The directed study component is intended to reinforce both in-class learning and post-session reflection.
Assessment Methods
The course is assessed by means of a written exam, which will focus on the theoretical and practical aspects. In particular, the exam consists of open ended and/or essay-type questions.
The exam aims to value the achievement of learning objectives referred to sustainable business topics. In particular, questions are formulated to value the study, the capability of understanding and critical thinking of students on these topics. Clearness, synthesis, consistency and critical judgment will be given particular merit.
Each answer will be graded with a score from 0 to 30 and the final grade will be the average of the grades. Each student needs to achieve a mark of 18/30 or above. Any mark below 18 will be considered as a ‘fail’ and students will be required to retake the exam.
During the course case study analysis and/or specific assignments could be given to students.
Students can choose to be evaluated on these assignments as a part of the final grade. In this case, they will be asked to answer only part of the exam.
Students will be given 45 minutes to answer each question.
More information will be provided during the course. Results will be communicated to students through the formal platform ESSE3 or other formal University tool.
Contents
The course is designed to enable students to develop knowledge and skills related to sustainability and sustainable management, with a focus on business tools for implementing, measuring, and reporting sustainability performance.
It is organized into three main parts and covers the following topics and concepts:
Part I – Introducing Sustainability and Sustainable Development
This section introduces the core concepts of sustainability and sustainable development, along with their main challenges. Particular attention will be given to the UN 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Part II – Business Models for Sustainability
This section explores sustainable business strategies and models, including innovative approaches and circular economy principles.
Part III – Managerial and Accounting Tools for Sustainability
This part provides an overview of managerial and accounting tools used to implement, measure, control, and report on environmental and social performance in business contexts. Topics include environmental and social certifications, sustainability accounting, and reporting techniques.
Online Resources
More information
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