| CODE | MGT3213 | ||||||||
| TITLE | International Business Management | ||||||||
| UM LEVEL | 03 - Years 2, 3, 4 in Modular Undergraduate Course | ||||||||
| MQF LEVEL | 6 | ||||||||
| ECTS CREDITS | 4 | ||||||||
| DEPARTMENT | Business and Enterprise Management | ||||||||
| DESCRIPTION | In today鈥檚 fast-evolving and increasingly interconnected world, businesses must navigate complex international landscapes shaped by globalisation, technological advances, shifting consumer expectations, and geopolitical developments. This study-unit explores the critical implications of these global dynamics and examines both the strategic opportunities and operational challenges presented by internationalisation 鈥� now central to organisational survival and sustainable growth. Through an applied and forward-looking lens, students will engage with foundational theories, practical frameworks, and contemporary tools for analysing competitiveness and strategic positioning in international business. Emphasis is placed on both large multinational enterprises (MNEs) and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs), with insights into how each navigates cross-border challenges and adapts to global market conditions. The study-unit examines the broader economic, social, and ethical dimensions of international business, including the impact of globalisation on domestic industries, the role of national competitiveness, and the responsibilities of businesses operating across borders. Students will critically evaluate real-world case studies, reflect on industry trends, and develop a nuanced appreciation for international strategic decision-making in a range of organisational contexts, including that of Malta. Indicative Syllabus & Outline: Introduction to international business and management - The nature of international business - Patterns and trends in international business / Globalisation - Cross-national ethics and social responsibility The internationalisation process and international planning - Modes of entry in firm internationalisation - International business: theoretical foundations and practice The international environment, competitiveness and international business strategy Organising international enterprises and international management Small firm internationalisation and the Maltese context Teaching Methodology: The study-unit comprises lectures during which class interaction is encouraged - current cases are discussed and applied to illustrate theoretical underpinnings. Class discussion and debate supplements validity and enriches students鈥� learning experience by linking theory to industry realities and market application. Case-based sessions will be discussed and students will be expected to read and prepare for class sessions. Attendance and participation at scheduled classes is important - active listening should be supplemented with reading. Together with brief real-world video cases for discussion, this study-unit presents an engaging learning experience. Study-Unit Aims: This study-unit aims to provide a good foundation for understanding the various dynamics that shape and influence the realities faced by businesses operating in increasingly globalised environments. Learning Outcomes: 1. Knowledge & Understanding: By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to: - Demonstrate understanding and evaluate the globalised contexts within which organisations operate, compete, and seek to sustain themselves; - Illustrate understanding and apply relevant internationalisation strategies and strategic options in different global business contexts, while identifying effective competitive courses of action for both MNEs and SMEs; - Develop understanding and critically assess the broader macroeconomic and societal implications of globalisation, including national competitiveness and its influence on businesses, consumers, and socio-economic systems. 2. Skills: Within an organisational context, students will be able to: - Analyse and interpret key international business dynamics and assess their impact on firm competitiveness, growth prospects, and internationalisation potential; - Formulate and propose strategic recommendations that enable organisations to harness international opportunities and mitigate global challenges; - Engage with and critique real-world cases and contemporary trends to support evidence-based international business decision-making. Main Text/s and any supplementary readings: Main Texts: - Hill, C. W. L., 2025. International business: Competing in the global marketplace. 14th ed. McGraw Hill. Supplementary Readings: - Deresky, Helen. 2024. International management: Managing across borders and cultures. Global edition. Pearson Education Ltd. - Griffin, R., and Pustay, M. 2020. International Business: A Managerial Perspective. 9th edition. Pearson Education Ltd. - Wild, J., and Wild, K. 2024. International business: The challenges of Globalization. 10th ed. Pearson. Suggested periodicals include: - The Economist. - Financial Times. - Harvard Business Review. - Malta Business Weekly. Suggested academic journals include: - Journal of international Business Studies. - International Business Review. - Management International Review. - International Small Business Journal. |
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| STUDY-UNIT TYPE | Lecture | ||||||||
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| LECTURER/S | Nathaniel P. Massa |
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The University makes every effort to ensure that the published Courses Plans, Programmes of Study and Study-Unit information are complete and up-to-date at the time of publication. The University reserves the right to make changes in case errors are detected after publication.
The availability of optional units may be subject to timetabling constraints. Units not attracting a sufficient number of registrations may be withdrawn without notice. It should be noted that all the information in the description above applies to study-units available during the academic year 2025/6. It may be subject to change in subsequent years. |
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