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701-1562-00L 6 Credits MSC D-USYS , D-GESS

Principles of Management for Sustainability

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Eva Lieberherr, Prof. Dr. Anthony Patt, Dr. Inga Mareike Nienkerke

VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:14:42

Abstract

The course will proceed through a series of management concepts that will be applied to envrionmental case studies. Students will engage in individual and group work to practice the art of effective management, recommending a course of action for the individual and organization that is the subject of each case, gaining valuable insights into environmental management.

Objective

- Identify the facts, assumptions, theories, and social constructions guiding the management of organizations and decision-making to a range of environmental and natural resource policy problems. - Recognize key institutional and interpersonal challenges in management and decision-making situations. - Design communication and decision-making processes that can work effectively in the context of stakeholder worldviews and perspectives. - Conduct qualitative and quantitative analysis of value to decision-makers, and communicate that in a manner that is clear and effective. - Consider broader policy issues applicable across the cases, such as the appropriate roles of public, non-profit, and private sector organizations, the decentralization of authority, and possible societal pathways towards sustainability.

Content

The course will cover a range of environmental problem areas, include land conversion, water quality, air quality, climate change, and energy. Across these issues, cases will engage students in confronting particular management decisions needing to be made by individuals and organizations, primarily in the public and non-profit sectors, but also in private sector firms.

General Information

Language: English
Levels: MSC
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: ungraded semester performance

As described in the course abstract, this course requires individual and group work throughout the semester, including active participation in all class sessions. The total time commitment that is expected is commensurate with the 6 ECTS points awarded. Students’ performance of these tasks will be assessed by the teaching staff throughout the semester, as the basis for receiving a passing grade.

Course Components