ØAADM4200 International Strategy in a Global Economy Course description

The world appear to have become more global and digital, and we have witnessed an increased growth in international expansion of companies of all sizes, i.e., MNEs, SMEs and Born global firms (BGs). Managers of these firms are facing opportunities and challenges related to international expansion and it is vital for future leaders and employees to have an understanding of these issues. The focus in the course encompass  firms of all sizes, yet with a particular focus on SMEs and BGs and the particular challenges that need to be addressed by these firms in their internationalization process. It will be used cases throughout the course to illustrate theories and discuss practical problems. 

Some of the topics covered in the course is international strategy, choice of entry modes, the internationalization process, market learning and knowledge transfer, institutional differences, the role of networks for internationalization, international entrepreneurship/born global firm and ethical issues. 

Business strategy and Marketing at a bachelor Level 

None.

After completing the course, the student should have the following overall learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence: 

Knowledge

The student has

• An understanding of globalization, globalization forces and how globalization is related to international expansion 
• Insight and deep understanding of international expansion, including choice of markets,  modes of entry, and tensions between global integration and local adaptation  
• A particular knowledge about what characterize born global firms/international new ventures 
• Basic and up-to-date knowledge of research and different dilemmas facing firms competing in international markets  
• Developed his/her ability to reflect and understand issues facing firms going international
• The role of market learning and knowledge transfer for international expansion 
• Sustainability and ethical issues 

Skills

The student is capable of 

• Analyzing complex and comprehensive internationalization issues for various types of firms 
• Apply theory and critical thinking to real cases and complex business challenges 
• Reflect on opportunities and challenges for firms competing internationally 

General competence 

The student can

• Engage in analytical discussions of  internationalization issues 
• Can approach international decisions from various perspectives 

A combination of lectures, case discussions and student presentations. Students are expected to take an active role in their own learning experience, actively participate in discussions, and contribute to an open and positive learning environment in class. 

In order for the student to take the exam, the following coursework must have been approved: 

Completion of up to two written assignments (up to 6 pages) and one presentation (approx.  20 minutes). The coursework will be carried out in groups up to four students, comprising different nationalities if possible. Students who fail to qualify, will be given another opportunity to submit new or improved assignment. 

All required coursework must be completed and approved by the given deadline in order for the student to take the exam. 

Written school exam (5 hours).

One dictionary (Native language - English/English - native language or English-English).

Letter grading A-F.

An internal and an external examiner will grade the exam.

A selection of at least 25% of the exam papers will be assessed by two examiners. The grades awarded to exam papers assessed by the external and internal examiner will be used to determine the level of all exam papers.

Anita E. Tobiassen