Program Overview
In today's world, businesses are increasingly expected to be sustainable and socially responsible. Sustainability has become a critical issue for businesses and society as we face pressing challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and social inequality. As such, businesses need to adopt sustainable practices to reduce their impact on the environment, contribute to social well-being, and ensure long-term economic viability. The sustainable business management bachelor’s program is highly relevant and important as it prepares students to be leaders in sustainability and contribute to a more sustainable future for all. It provides students with the necessary knowledge and skills to manage businesses that are environmentally and socially responsible and contribute to a transition to a more sustainable future.
The bachelor's degree program in sustainable business management at the Swedish Open University is designed to provide students with an understanding of business management’s principles and practices, with a focus on integrating sustainability considerations into decision-making processes. It provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful business managers while also promoting sustainability and social responsibility. Students also learn about the latest trends and innovations in sustainable business practices.
The program covers a range of topics, such as sustainable supply chain management, corporate social responsibility, environmental management, sustainable finance, and green marketing, with a focus on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Students learn how to analyze the social, environmental, and economic impact of business decisions and develop strategies to promote sustainable business practices. Graduates of the program are equipped to pursue careers in fields such as sustainability consulting, sustainable supply chain management, sustainability reporting, sustainable finance, and environmental management.
The Swedish Open University emphasizes on a collaborative learning environment, where students work together in teams to solve problems and complete assignments. Students are encouraged to share their experiences and ideas with their peers and to engage in academic discussions. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of community and encourages students to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills.
In the final year of the program, students complete a project that demonstrates their ability to apply sustainable business principles to a specific problem or issue. The project is supervised by a faculty advisor and culminates in a written report and oral presentation. The project provides students an opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world problem and to showcase their abilities to potential employers.
The program also includes a global perspective, which prepares students to work in international contexts. This includes courses on global sustainability challenges and international business practices. This global perspective is essential for students who are planning to launch sustainable businesses in a global marketplace. The program is delivered online, allowing students to study at their own pace following their own schedule.
Program Learning Outcomes and Objectives
By the end of the program, students will be able to:
• Understand the principles of sustainable business management and apply them to create a successful business.
• Develop and implement sustainable business strategies that promote social responsibility and environmental stewardship.
• Analyze the economic, social, and environmental impact of business decisions and evaluate their consequences.
• Use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to identify opportunities and challenges in the sustainable business management field.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders to build partnerships and promote sustainable business practices.
• Demonstrate ethical leadership and decision-making skills that promote social justice and sustainability.
Program Structure
Special courses are designed to provide students with a foundation in the principles of sustainable business practices and management. Students learn about the key components of business management and how they can be applied in the context of sustainability. They also learn about the global challenges facing businesses and the role that sustainability can play in addressing these challenges.
The program begins with foundational courses in business and economics. In addition to the foundation courses in business administration such as Basic Mathematics, Business Statistics, Information systems: Digitalization, Introduction to Marketing, Financial Management, Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Project Management, Principles of Economics, Microeconomics, Entrepreneurship Development, Introduction to Organization and Management, Leadership, Research Methods, Business Law and Ethics, Internship, Exchange Programs, Tech, and the Bachelor’s thesis or project. The core courses are designed to provide students with a solid foundational course in business and economics.
In addition, students also have to attend courses designed to provide them with a foundation in the principles of sustainable entrepreneurship. As students’ progress through the program, they take advanced courses in sustainable business management. These courses cover topics like:
1. Sustainable product design.
2. Sustainable financing.
3. Sustainable tourism.
4. Sustainable marketing.
5. Introduction to Sustainability perspectives.
6. Environmental management systems.
7. Social entrepreneurship.
8. Introduction to sustainable business management.
9. Sustainable business operations.
10. Sustainability reporting and assurance.
11. Sustainable supply chain management.
12. Corporate social responsibility.
13. Others.
Students also learn about the latest trends and innovations in sustainable business practices.
Final Project
The final project is the culminating experience of the program. Students will use their knowledge and skills to create a sustainable business plan that addresses a real-world problem. The project will be presented to a panel of experts who will evaluate the plan and provide feedback.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the sustainable business management program can pursue a range of careers, including:
• Sustainable Business Managers
• Sustainability Consultants
• Corporate Social Responsibility Managers
• Sustainable Supply Chain Managers
• Renewable Energy Consultants
Admission Requirements
To be eligible for admission to the program, applicants must have:
• Completed high school or equivalent education.
• Have proven proficiency in English.
• Have an interest in sustainable business management.
• Fulfill other admission requirements.
Tuition and Fees
The tuition for the bachelor’s degree program in sustainable business management at the Swedish Open University is 60,000 SEK (approximately $6,000 USD) per year or 3,000 USD per semester. This does not include additional fees such as textbooks, technology, or other course material.
Assessment and evaluation
Student learning is assessed using a number of methods, including exams, essays, case studies, and projects. Students are also evaluated on their participation in online discussions and group projects. Course evaluations are conducted at the end of each course to gather feedback from the students on the effectiveness of the course and the teaching methods used.
Graduation requirements
To graduate from the bachelor’s program at the Swedish Open University, students must:
• Complete all required courses and earn a minimum of 180 credits.
• Maintain a minimum grade of 60 percent in every course.
• Successfully complete a bachelor’s thesis or project.
• Meet any additional requirements set by the university.
How to apply
