View
2
Download
0
Category
Preview:
Citation preview
FHS St.Gallen Department of Business Administration
Course catalogue for exchange students
Last Update: 20 Mai 09
Page 1 of 47
Table of contents Comments .................................................................................................................. 2
Strategic Management................................................................................................ 3
Intercultural Communication and Understanding ........................................................ 6
Global Sourcing .......................................................................................................... 9
Consulting Project International ................................................................................ 10
English for Academic Purposes ................................................................................ 11
Corporate Finance .................................................................................................... 12
Presentation Skills .................................................................................................... 13
Marketing and International Sales ............................................................................ 14
Psychology of Interpersonal Communication ............................................................ 17
Leadership & Personal Development ....................................................................... 19
Leadership & Personal Development – Course A .................................................... 20
Leadership & Personal Development – Course B .................................................... 23
Macro Economics II and Globalisation ..................................................................... 25
International Law ...................................................................................................... 27
International Law – Course A ................................................................................... 28
International Law – Course B ................................................................................... 30
Business Informatics ................................................................................................ 33
Global Relations ....................................................................................................... 34
Business Statistics .................................................................................................... 36
German Basics ......................................................................................................... 38
German Intermediate ................................................................................................ 39
Business English 4 ................................................................................................... 40
Spanish for Beginners .............................................................................................. 42
Italian for Beginners .................................................................................................. 43
Spanish Intermediate ................................................................................................ 44
Italian Intermediate ................................................................................................... 45
Courses in German .................................................................................................. 46
Contact information .................................................................................................. 46
Page 2 of 47
Comments All courses listed in this brochure are intended to be offered during every spring semester (Feb. – June) and are taught in English. Most classes are mixed with Swiss and International students.
ECTS:
1 ECTS credit is supposed to be a 30 hour workload for students. The regular workload for a student at FHS St.Gallen is 30 ECTS credits per semester. A total of 180 ECTS credits is necessary to graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration at FHS St.Gallen.
Workload
Exchange students are recommended to take not less than 16 ECTS credits per semester. Regular students at FHS St.Gallen take 30 ECTS per semester.
Contact lessons
One lesson lasts 45 minutes. Class sizes lie depending on the course between 15 – 40 students.
Guided self study
Guided self study contains: - Supervision of projects related to practice (weekly meetings) - Consultation hour with personal contact - Moderation of discussion forum (E-Learning portal) - Supervision of term paper
Self study
Self study contains: - Homework - Studying literature
Mandatory and elective courses:
Every exchange student is strongly recommended to take the following courses: - Strategic Management - German Basic or German Intermediate
Course changes
FHS St.Gallen reserves the right to change or cancel courses on short notice. Exchange students have the possibility to change their course selection up to two weeks after the semester has started. The only exception to this is the course “Consulting Project International”. Because the FHS St.Gallen has signed a contract with a company, students are responsible to fulfil the assignment given, supported by a FHS coach.
Page 3 of 47
Strategic Management
Name of Course Strategic Management and Market Research / Statistics
Course Code STMA ECTS-Credits 2 Language of Instruction: English
Course Type Core course Course Level intermediate
Contact-hours 39 Total amount of work 60 hrs
Term Full-Time Study: 5th semester Exchange Students: Spring / Fall
Lecturer Responsible Dr. Petra Kugler
Lecturer Team Dr. Petra Kugler (Strategic Management), Dr. Hendrik Godbersen (Market Research), Dr. Stefan Ott (Statistics)
Methods of Teaching and Learning
lectures, class discussion of cases, teamwork assignments for case discussion, videos, guided self study
Aim The course combines two fields of study: (1) Strategic Management (2/3 of the course), and (2) Market Research / Statistics (1/3 of the course). One the one hand, students will learn to cope with the complex task of Strategic Management, which is largely grounded on data that reflect a firms’ internal and external situation. On the other hand, students will get insights on how to gather and analyze these data by the means of Market Research. In general, the course aims at the following:
(1) Strategic Management
Students will learn to identify and find answers to key strategic issues an organization faces today. They will be capable of anticipating, evaluating and integrating crucial, dynamic environmental developments into their decision making in order to impact their specific organization. Students will learn fundamental theoretical and practical knowledge that enables them to develop creative strategic moves in order to position their specific organization in an ever-changing environment. They will learn that the key to organizational success thereby is the creation of competitive advantages.
(2) Market Research / Statistics
Analyzing the market and controlling the impacts of operations in the markets are fundamentals for success in business administration. Therefore, after completion of the course, students will be able to understand the systems and processes of market research and to plan and coordinate simple market research projects. They will learn how to analyze market research data with simple methods, and to use market information for decision making. The structure of the course follows a typical process of market research. Theoretical basics will be combined with methods and techniques that are used in the professional market research business. In the context of practical projects students face specific statistical problems. These aspects are discussed in the statistics part of the course as well as advanced multivariate methods of data evaluation.
Page 4 of 47
Course Target / Learning Target (Competencies)
(1) Strategic Management
Professional Competencies
To be familiar with the fundamental aims and issues of Strategic Management.
To know and criticize crucial tools that can help us structure the situations internal and external to an organization.
Be able to develop and discuss strategies that are adequate for different types of organizations.
Be familiar with the process of formulating strategic issues.
Be aware that in order to bring about sustainable competitive advantages, strategies must always be unique.
Be able to critically discuss the limitations of strategic planning. Methodological Competencies
Apply strategic management instruments to solve strategy issues in different kinds of organizations.
Develop and evaluate creative and sustaining strategies to appropriately respond to internal and external challenges.
Lead strategic initiatives to successful implementation, incorporating the basic principles of strategic change and of management of resistance to organizational and strategic change.
(2) Market Research / Statistics
Professional Competencies
After completion of this course, students will be able to
understand the systems of market research
the process of market research methods, instruments, and techniques of market research
methodological subtleties in the context of practical projects
advanced multivariate statistical techniques.
Methodological Competencies
After completion of this course, students will be able to
plan and coordinate simple market research projects
analyze market research data with simple methods
use market information for decision making
deal with methodological subtleties in the context of practical projects
apply multivariate statistical techniques with professional guidance
familiarize themselves with multivariate statistical techniques.
Course Content/ Learning Content Topics Learning Block 1 (Market Research)
Market research process and market research design
Secondary research
Qualitative research
Sampling
Methods of data collection
Developing a questionnaire
Operative planning of market research projects
Analysing and interpreting data
Market segmentation
Analysing images and positioning
Measuring advertising effects
Page 5 of 47
Topics Learning Block 2 (Strategic Management)
Fundamentals of strategic management
Strategic management model
Market-based- and resource-based view of the firm
Industry- and competitive analysis, strategic groups
Resources and competences
Topics Learning Block 3 (Strategic Management)
SWOT-analysis and other fundamental strategic tools
Development of a strategic vision
Scenario analysis
Competitive strategy and sustainable competitive advantages
Corporate strategy development
Topics Learning Block 4 (Strategic Management)
Change management
Organizational culture
Strategy implementation
Balanced scorecard
Topics Learning Block 5 (Statistics)
Specific statistical problems in the context of practical projects
Advanced statistical techniques I
Advanced statistical techniques II
Course Structure
Contact Hours: 52 x 0.75 hrs. = 39 hrs.
Guided Self-Study: 11 hrs.
Teaching material (1) Strategic Management (Learning block 2-4)
Mandatory Readings
FHS - Strategic Management Reader: Collection of Strategic Management
Cases and Articles, 2009. (To be handed out in class).
Supplementary Readings
Johnson, G.; K. Scholes (2004): Exploring Corporate Strategy – Text and Cases. 7th Edition, Prentice Hall: London.
Christensen, C. M.; M. Raynor (2003): Why Hard-Nosed Executives Should Care About Management Theory. Harvard Business Review, September 2003, 25-40.
(2) Market Research / Statistics (Learning block 1)
Mandatory Readings
Kotler, P., K.L. Keller (2009): Marketing Management (13th ed.), Upper Saddle
River, NJ: Pearson. Chapter 3 and 4 and parts of the book that are related
to the topics of learning block 1
Course Requirements Fundamental economic knowledge, no specific knowledge required
Efficiency Rating Team term paper (company case study, 12-15 pages, 33.3% of rating, Strategic Management)
Field research assignment (case study presentation / discussions, 66.6% of rating (thereof Strategic Management 50%, Market Research 50%)
Subsequent Courses according to study master plan
Page 6 of 47
Intercultural Communication and Understanding
Name of Course Intercultural Communication and Understanding
Course Code ICOU ECTS-Credits 4 Language of Instruction: English
Course Type Elective course Course Level advanced
Contact-hours 3 Total amount of work 120 hours
Term Full-Time Study: 4th semester Exchange Students: Fall semester only
Lecturer Responsible Dr. Christa Uehlinger
Lecturer Team Dr. Christa Uehlinger
Methods of Teaching and Learning
Simulation, role play, group work, presentations, case-study, lecture, papers, self-study
Aim Thos course is designed to lay the ground work for the study of specific topics in international management. Before it is possible to explore differences in decision-making style or issues in international negotiation, it is first necessary to have a clear understanding of what “culture” is an how cultural differences can be analyzed and understood. This course, therefore will lay the ground work and cover the basic concepts of culture and present a framework with which cultural differences can be understood. In addition, it will address some of the major barriers that can occur in intercultural interaction and teach techniques for overcoming them. By the end of the course, students will have a basic understanding of the issues involved in communicating across cultures and will have learned skills that will aid them in being more proficient in doing so.
Course Target / Learning Target (Competencies)
Knowledge competencies:
Understanding basic definitions and concepts of culture.
Develop awareness of cultural difference as an intercultural communication issue.
Describe the MBI model of intercultural interaction (Lane, DeStefano & Maznevski)
Research, report on a framework of cultural difference
Define the “DIE” model of suspension of judgment (based on theory of Stella Ting-Toomy).
Explain the concept of empathy and the role it plays in effective intercultural interaction. (Lane, DeStefano & Maznevski and Milton Bennett).
Methodology competencies:
Apply a framework of cultural difference (based on the theory of Kluckhohn & Strodtbeck, Edward T. Hall, Geert Hofstede and Fons Trompenaars) to cases involving cultural mis-understandings
Apply the “DIE” model of suspension of judgment (based on theory of Stella Ting-Toomy) to cases.
Social competencies:
Develop the sensitivity to understand when cultural difference is causing difficulties in an intercultural communication situation
Analyze one’s own behaviour and the behaviour of culturally different others utilizing the framework of cultural difference U/based on the theory of Kluckhohn & Strodtbeck, Edward T. Hall, Geert Hofstede and Fons Trompenaars) in order to understand and/or avoid intercultural misunderstandings.
Apply the “DIE” model of suspension of judgment in order to reduce potential conflict in intercultural situations
Demonstrate the ability to manage stereotypes so that they do not become a block to effective intercultural interaction (Nancy J. Adler)
Self competencies:
Increase cultural self-awareness; recognize how one’s national culture impacts who one is and how one behaves.
Develop the ability to reflect on one’s behaviour and to understand the way one is being perceived by a counterpart with a different cultural background.
Develop the ability to see a situation or issue not only from one’s own cultural frame, but also from
Page 7 of 47
the cultural frame of the other person, practice perspective taking and empathy.
Demonstrate the ability to modify one’s behaviour in order to achieve communication and interaction goals.
Course Content/ Learning Content
Topics/Learning content I:
Introduction to the basic Concepts of Culture and Intercultural Interaction
Simulation of cultural difference.
Presentation and discussion of various metaphors for culture and definition of terms (bases on the theory of Boas, Hofstede, Trompenaars and Eagle & Carter)
Introduction to the MBI model of intercultural communication and interaction (based on the theory of Lane, DeStefano & Maznevski).
Barriers to effective intercultural interaction: Suspension of judgment (based on the theory of Stella Tong-Toomy).
Barriers to effective intercultural interaction: Managing Stereotypes (based on the theory of Nancy J. Adler).
Topics/Learning content II:
Proverbs as a way of identifying core values: a first step in understanding cultural difference (based on methodology of Robert Kohls)
Research project and presentations on model of cultural difference (based on the theory of Kluckhohn & Strodtbeck, Edward T. Hall, Geert Hofstede and fons Trompenhaars).
Presentation of model I – student presentation
Presentation of model II – student presentation
Overview of model and mapping culture: identifying gaps that lead to intercultural misunderstanding (based on the theroy of Lane, DeStefano & Maznevski).
Operationalizing the framework: applying it to the analysis of cases.
Topics/Learning content III:
Putting ourselves in the shoes of the other: Double-Loop thinking (based on the metodology of Anne B. Pederson)
The experience of empathy: experimenting with different communication styles (based on the methodology of Margaret, Piper McNulty).
Role plays to practice behavior change.
“Sophisticated stereotyping”: contestualizing behavior to understand cultural dichotomies (based on the theory of Osland & Bird).
Course Structure
Contact Hours: 42 x 0.75 = 32 hrs.
Self-Study (88 hrs.)
Preparation of group presentation on framework of cultural difference
Write one 5 pape paper
Selected Readings (see below)
Studying for exam
Teaching material Adler, N.J. (1997). International dimensions of orgnaizational behavior, 3rd ed., cincinnati, Ohio: south-Western College Publishing.
Bennett, M.J. (1996). Overcoming the golden rule: Sympathy and pmpathy. Communication Yearbook, vol. 3. New Brunswick, NJ: Transaction Publishers.
Hall, E.T. (1959/1981). The silent language. New York: Doubleday.
Hall, E.T. (1966/1982) The hidden dimension, New York: Doubleday.
Hofstede, G. (1991). Cultures and orgnizations: Software of the mind. Berkshire, England: McGraw-Hill Book Company Europe.
Lane, H.W., DeStefano, J.J. & maznevski, M.L. (2000) International management behavior, 4th Ed. Oxford: Blackwell Business.
Schneider, S.C. & Barsoux, J-L. (2003). Managing across cultures, 2nd Ed. Harlow, England: Prentice Hall / Financial Times
Page 8 of 47
Thomas, D.C. (2001). Essentials of interantional mangement: A cross cultural perspecitve. Thousand Oaks: Sage.
Trompenaars, F. & Hampden-Turner, C. (1998) Riding the waves of culture: Understanding cultural diversity in business, 2nd Ed., London: Nicholas Brealey Publising Ltd.
Course Requirements According to study master plan
Efficiency Rating/
Certificate Requirements
Grade for group work preparation and participation (presentation of framework of cultural difference)
Grade for 5 page mid-term paper
60 minute exam at the end of the semester
Accessing Courses -
Page 9 of 47
Global Sourcing
Name of Course Global Sourcing
Course Code GLSO ECTS 2 Language of Instruction English
Course Type compulsory Course level intermediate
Contact-hours 27 Total amount of work 60 hours
Term Full-Time Study: 4. / 5. semester Exchange Students: Spring / Fall
Lecturer Responsible Roger Martin (mat), Samuel Wagnière (was)
Lecturer Team Roger Martin (mat), Samuel Wagnière (was)
Methods of Teaching and Learning
Class teaching, case studies and discussion, individual work
Aim The students shall get an in-depth understanding of the opportunities and risks of sourcing in a global context, including: procurement strategies, supply chain management and logistics in various international contexts
Course Target / Learning Target (Competencies)
Professional Competencies:
The students shall get a profound knowledge in procurement strategies and supply chain management on a macroeconomic as well as on a microeconomic level.
Methodological Competencies:
The students shall get profound skills in managing the processes along the whole value chain, from the production factors and resources to the distribution, in an international context.
Social Competencies:
The students shall sharp their view on critical issues, such as politics, ethics and behavior in international business.
Self Competencies:
The students shall develop the ability to engage self-critically in the learning process and to deal with complex and interdisciplinary issues
Course Content/ Learning Content
Resources and Procurement (was)
- Global Trade, Global Resources, Ethics and Politics - Procurement Strategies and Worldwide Transportation - Prices, Currencies and Financial Hedging - Information, Culture and Trust
Supply Chain Strategies and Logistics (mat)
- Supply Chain (SC) Strategies - Logistic Concepts und SC Information Technology - Efficient Consumer Response and Customer Relationship Management - SC Operation Reference Model and SC Controlling
Course Structure Contact hours: 20 hours
Exams: 2 x 1 hour
Self study and exam preparation: 40 hours
Teaching material - Readers (Papers)
- Powerpoint Presentations
- Case Studies
Course Requirements - Basic Knowledge in Business and Economics
Efficiency Rating/
Certificate Requirements
Two written examinations during the semester (2 x 1 hour)
Page 10 of 47
Consulting Project International
Course name Consulting Project International CPIN
Course code PPIN
CPIN ECTS Credits 10
Language of instruction
English
Type of Course Core course Level of course advanced
Lessons of contact 28 Overall working hours 300 hours
Semester Exchange Students: Spring / Fall
Responsible lecturer
Team of professors
Knowledge Transfer Section WTT – Prof. Peter Mueller, Head WTT
Roger Martin, Mathias Kleiner, Karin Pfister
Method of learning Group work, guided self study, self study
Idea of course
Content:
Business students have the opportunity to further develop their basic, personal, social and methodological skills. Students work on an actual issue from the business world. The task consists of conceptual work with concrete, realisable measures or a market analysis in a brought sense.
The process and the results of the work are recorded in a report in accordance with the academic requirements and presented to the client in a concluding presentation.
While working on the project in a team of 4-5 students, students are taught in scientific report writing and the basics of FHS consulting project methodology.
The client, usually a Swiss company, is paying several thousand Swiss Francs to FHS for the project.
It is the students responsibility to achieve the agreed goals together with the FHS coaches. FHS does assure the quality of the results.
The team therefore will be closely guided by an experienced FHS advisor as coach.The weekly workload is about 20 hours.
During the whole process English will be the official language.
• Conceptual work
• Analysis
• Evaluation
• Package of measures
• Recommendations
• Presentation technique and communication
• Layout and design of final report
• Final presentation
Page 11 of 47
English for Academic Purposes
Name of Course English for Acacemic Purposes
Course Code EFAP ECTS-Credits 2 Language of Instruction: English
Course Type Elective course Course Level advanced
Contact-hours 2 Total amount of work 60 hours
Term Full-Time Study: 4th semester Exchange Students: Spring / Fall
Lecturer Responsible Nico Spahni
Lecturer Team Nico Spahni
Methods of Teaching and Learning
Simulation, role play, group work, presentations, case-study, lecture, papers, self-study
Aim To improve students ability to write a scientific report in English
Course Target / Learning Target (Competencies)
Course Content/ Learning Content
Introduction / Overview
- Studying abroad for one semester
- Introduction to academic English
Block I: Speaking
- Communicative challenges
- Discussion skills
Block ll: Listening
- Following lectures
- Note-taking
Block III: Writing
- Essay
- Cohesive ties
- Academic phrases
- Paraphrasing, summarising and synthesising
Block IV: Reading
- Selecting texts, skimming and scanning
- Critical reading
- Drawing inference
Summary / Review
- Course evaluation and revision
Course Structure Contact Hours: 28 hrs.
Self study: 32 hrs
Teaching material
Course Requirements According to study master plan
Efficiency Rating/
Certificate Requirements
Page 12 of 47
Corporate Finance
Name of Course Corporate Finance
Course Code COFI ECTS-Cred. 4 Language of Instruction: English
Course Type Core course Course Level advanced
Contact-hours / week 3 Total amount of work 120 hours
Term Full-Time Study: 4th semester Exchange Students: Spring / Fall
Lecturer Responsible Ernesto Turnes, M.A. in Banking & Finance (HSG) et M.A. in Economics (HSG)
Lecturer Team Ernesto Turnes, M.A. in Banking & Finance (HSG) et M.A. in Economics (HSG)
Methods of Teaching and Learning
Presentation, self-study, practical exercises, team presentations
Aim In a competitive environment it is crucial for a company to use its financial resources efficiently and to interact with the financial investors in a confidence building way. By means of financial statements the financial community has the possibility to analyze and value different companies. Financial planning and capital budgeting are therefore important functions to generate added value to the investors.
This course will enable the students to understand and exercise the core elements of modern corporate finance.
Course Content/ Learning Content
Block I: Financial Statements and Financial Planning
o Working with Financial Statements
o Long-Term Financial Planning and Growth
o Short Term Finance and Planning
Block II: Valuation and Capital Budgeting
o Discounted Cash Flow Valuation
o Capital Budgeting
Block III: Cost of Capital and Long-Term Financial Policy
o Cost of Capital
o Raising Capital
o Financial Leverage
Team Presentations on Topics in Finance
Course Structure Contact Hours: 32 hours
Self-Study: 80 hours - Readings, Report and Presentation
Teaching material Powerpoint slides, textbook (Ross, Westerfield and Jordan: Corporate Finance
Fundamentals, 8th international edition) and newspaper articles
Course Requirements A good basic knowledge of finance, accounting and mathematics
Efficiency Rating The evaluation is based on a final written exam about 90 minutes (= 75 % of the
final mark) and a team presentation about 30 minutes (weighted by 25 %)
Page 13 of 47
Presentation Skills
Name of Course Presentation Skills
Course Code PRSK ECTS-Credits 2 Language of Instruction: English
Course Type Course Level advanced
Contact-hours 28 Total amount of work 60 hours
Term Full-Time Study: 4th semester Exchange Students: Spring / Fall
Lecturer Responsible Ms. Astrid S. Frielingsdorf
Lecturer Team
Methods of Teaching and Learning
Theoretical inputs, interaction, group work, short presentations (Individual and in groups), self study
Aim Learning how to assimilate complex topics and to turn them into an interesting and convincing presentation. Get to know the personal strengths and limits and refine the potential in presentation techniques. Act in a professional and natural way in front of an audience.
Course Target / Learning Target (Competencies)
Professional Competencies:
o Know the important elements of an effective presentation
o Understand and apply audience oriented presentations
o Prepare and present complex topics concisely
Methodological Competencies:
o Know the rational level and the interpersonal level and use systematically
o Know various examples of presentation structures
Social Competencies:
o Develop sensibility for the audience’s interests and needs
o Communicate in a conformist way
Personal Competencies:
o Become a competent presenter
o Learn to focus on essentials and to convey a summarised description of the essentials.
Course Content/ Learning Content
Thematic Block I:
o Introduction
o Selection and preparation of subject
o Emphasize the essentials of the subject
o Gaining structural and technical know-how
Thematic Block II:
o Emotional, visual and personal effects in presentations
Thematic Block III:
o Application of the learned skills with / in a team
Course Structure Contact Hours: 21 hrs
Self-Study: 39 hrs
Teaching material Handouts, worksheets
Course Requirements No prerequisites required
Efficiency Rating/
Certificate Requirements
Test during the semester: 45 Minutes, 50% of final grade
Team Presentation, 50% of final grade
Accessing Courses
Page 14 of 47
Marketing and International Sales
Course Name Marketing and International Sales
Course Code MISA ECTS Credits 4 Language of Instruction English
Course Type Compulsory course Course Level Intermediate
Contact Lessons 56 Total Workload 120 hours
Semester Full-time: 4th semester Exchange Students: Spring / Fall
Instructor in Charge Dr. Hendrik Godbersen
Instructor Team Prof. Dietmar Kremmel, Dr. Pius Küng, Rosella Toscano-Ruffilli, Roland Zahner
Teaching/Learning Method Lectures, class discussion, individual work, partner work, group work, guided
case study, case study.
Main Idea Business Administration graduates have a solid foundational knowledge of marketing and sales theory and therefore understand the significance of marketing and sales both in the context of management and also in interdependence with other areas of business. In addition, graduates have skills in marketing-specific key methods which enable them to gather market information in a targeted and structures fashion, as well as to handle basic marketing and sales analyses and strategies systematically and independently.
On the basis of marketing strategies, Business Administration graduates have the ability to place specific, targeted sub-assignments with specialists.
Course/Learning Objectives (Competencies)
Professional Competencies
After completion of the module students are able to understand
� the process and structure of marketing and buyers oriented business administration
� the influences and processes of consumer behavior
� impact of strategic marketing to business management
� the integrative role of brand management
� the development and management of products
� pricing strategies
� the system and process of integrated communication
� elements of communication and selling
� the management of brand portfolios
� the specifics of B2B marketing
Methodological Competencies
After completion of the module students are able to
� use information about the demand side for strategic and operative marketing planning
� create strategic concepts referring to market oriented business administration and brand management
� use instruments of product development and product management to deliver a core value to customers and to gain profit for a company
� evaluate prices and define effective pricing strategies
� plan and manage integrated campaigns of communication and selling
� use appropriate marketing strategies and instruments to face the challenges of B2C and B2B marketing
Students will be able to use the mentioned skills on a basic to medium level.
Course/Learning Contents Topics Learning Block 1 (Introduction into Marketing)
� Organisation and administration
� Structure, process and change of markets
Page 15 of 47
� Systems and processes of marketing management
� Key concepts of markets and marketing
Topics Learning Block 2 (Consumer Behaviour)
� Structure of influences on consumer behaviour
� Social influences on consumer behaviour as culture and groups
� Intrapersonal processes as perception, learning, memory, problem solving
� Intrapersonal factors: attention, emotion, motivation, attitudes, personality, life styles
� Psychological theories of behaviour
Topics Learning Block 3 (Segmenting and Targeting)
� The role of segmenting and targeting in the marketing process
� Variables and methods of segmenting
� Techniques of targeting
Topics Learning Block 4 (Strategic Frame & Positioning)
� Objectives and decisions of strategic marketing
� Process of strategic marketing
� Overview the state-of-the-art brand management models
� Strategic marketing management and positioning with the integrated brand
management system BrandingStar
� Process of positioning
� Defining customer interfaces and developing interfaces strategies
Topics Learning Block 5 (Product Marketing)
� Concepts of products from the seller’s and the buyer’s point of view
� Attributes of products
� Analysing and developing products
� Dealing with tangible and intangible goods
Topics Learning Block 6 (Pricing)
� Fundamentals of pricing theory
� Price perceptions
� Management Opportunities in pricing
� Pricing methods
Topics Learning Block 7 (Integrated Marketing Communications)
� Process of communication
� Management process of marketing communication
� Psychological, behavioural, and management factors influencing the
economic success of communication
� Impact and techniques of integration of communication
Topics Learning Block 8 (Mass Communications)
� Specifics and objectives of mass communications
� Deciding on media
� Development of advertising messages
� Analysing and developing advertisements
Topics Learning Block 9 (Sales Promotion, Events, PR)
� Objectives of sales promotion, event marketing, and public relations
� Opportunities and limitations of sales promotion, event marketing, and public relations
Page 16 of 47
� Instruments and processes of sales promotion, event marketing, and public relations
Topics Learning Block 10 (Personal Selling)
� Objectives and strategies of selling
� Management of sales organisations
� Process of personal selling
� Effective behaviour on the single steps of the process of personal selling
Topics Learning Block 11 (Direct Marketing)
� Specifics of direct marketing
� Instruments of direct marketing
� Objectives of direct marketing
� Development of direct marketing advertisements
Topics Learning Block 12 (Managing Brand Portfolios)
� Composite effects of the supply and the demand side
� Structure of brand extensions
� Opportunities and threats of brand extensions
� Brand architectures
Topics Learning Block 13 (B2B-Marketing)
� Behaviour of organisations
� Specifics of B2B-marketing in comparison to B2C-marketing
Topics Learning Block 14 (Integrative View on Marketing with the Management System BrandingStar)
� Holistic structure of the BrandingStar and Management process of the BrandingStar
Course Structure
Contact Hours
Guided Self-Study
Self Study:
- Review contact hours material
- Solve case studies
- Read literature
- Prepare for exams
Teaching Materials current articles from professional journals
Kotler Ph., Keller K.L. (2005). Marketing Management. Prentice Hall (ISBN 0-13-145757-8).
McCarthy E.J., Perreault W. (2005). Essentials of Marketing. McGraw-Hill Education – Europe. (ISBN 0-07-304920-4).
Hamal G. & Prahalad C.K. (1994). Competing for the future, Harvard Business School Press. (ISBN 0-87584-416-2).
Keegan, Warren J. & Green M. (2005). Global Marketing, Prentice Hall. (ISBN 0-13-146919-3)
De Burca S., Brown L., Fletcher R. (2004). International Marketing: An SME Perspective, Prentice Hall. (ISBN 0-2736-7323-8)
Belz Chr. / Mühlmeyer J. (Hrsg.) (2000). Internationales Preismanagement Strategie, Preisharmonisierung, Tools, Fallbeispiele. Wirtschaftsverlag Überreuter, Wien / Frankfurt (ISBN 3-7064-0664-0)
- Tomczak T / Belz Chr. / Schögel M. / Birkhofer B. (Hrsg.) (1999). Alternative Vertriebswege. St. Gallen: Thexis Verlag (ISBN 3-908545-47-1)
Graded Performance / Compulsory Requirement
Final module exam (120 minutes) at the end of semester
Follow-Up Courses as per model syllabus
Page 17 of 47
Psychology of Interpersonal Communication
Name of Course The Psychology of Interpersonal Communication
Course Code PICO ECTS-Credits 3 Language of Instruction: English
Course Type Course Level advanced
Contact-hours 3 Total amount of work 90 hours
Term Full-Time Study: 4th semester Exchange Students: Spring / Fall
Lecturer Responsible Jutta Köchli-Jacobi
Lecturer Team
Methods of Teaching and Learning
Lecture / Presentation / Discussion / Group Work / Role Plays
Aim FHSG graduates are able to apply a variety of communication skills in a differentiated way and in accordance with the requirements of specific situations. They are, moreover, acquainted with the theoretical background of these skills. They can meet the complex challenges of interpersonal communication in the business environment
Course Target / Learning Target (Competencies)
Professional Competences:
o The students are familiar with some of the key models as well as important psychological aspects of interpersonal communication and can specify them
o The students can apply crucial communication techniques in accordance with the requirements of a specific situation
Method Competences:
o The students can analyze typical communication processes on the basis of a sound theoretical framework
Self Competences:
o The students develop a keen sense of interpersonal communication as a continuous learning process
o The students improve their communication ability and become more reasoned, more reasonable and more effective communicators
Course Content/ Learning Content
Session I:
o The Axioms of Interpersonal Communication (e.g. Watzlawick, Bandler/Grinder, Schulz von Thun)
o Dimensions of the Self in Interpersonal Communication (e.g. Self Concept, Self Awareness, Feedback)
o Perception in Interpersonal Communication (e.g. Stages of Perception, Perceptual Processes)
Session II:
o Transactional Analysis (e.g. Ego-State-Model, Transactions, Strokes)
o Hidden Messages (e.g. Drivers, Life Positions, Games)
o Listening (e.g. Active listening, Stages of Listening, Response Styles)
Session III:
o The Conversation Process (e.g. Stages of conversation, Conversational Management, Conversational Problems, Conversation Killers)
o Managing Important Conversations in the Workplace (Exercises)
o Negotiation (e.g. Getting to YES, Types of Negotiation)
Session IV:
o Formal and Informal Communication (e.g. Communication Channels, Information Policy)
o Power in Interpersonal Communication (e.g. Types of Power,
Communicating Power))
o Nonverbal Communication (e.g. Body Communication, Facial Communication)
Page 18 of 47
Course Structure Contact Hours: 39h
Self study: Homework / Assignments, Studying Literature
Teaching material Script / Lecture Notes
Reference
Coursebook: DeVito, J. (2006). The Interpersonal Communication Book (11th ed.). Boston: Pearson.
Supplementary material:
Baney, J. (2004). Guide to Interpersonal Communication. Boston: Pearson.
Beebe, S.A., Beebe, S. J. & and Redmond, M. (2004). Interpersonal Communication (4th ed.). Boston: Pearson.
Disbrow, L.M. (2004). Video Workshop Interpersonal Communication. (CD-ROM). Boston: Pearson.
Harvard Business Essentials: Negotiation. (2003). Boston, Mass.: Harvard Business School.
Hintermann, J. (2005). Lust auf Kommunikation. Zürich: Versus.
Kälin, K. & Müri, P. (1993). Sich und andere führen. Psychologie für Fhrungskräfte und Mitarbeiter (7. Auflage). Thun: Ott Verlag.
Kühne, J. (undated). Kommunikationspsychologie. FHS St. Gallen.
Schulz von Thun, F. (2004). Miteinander reden. Störungen und Klärungen. (40. Auflage). Reinbek: Rowohlt.
Schulz von Thun, F., Ruppel, J. & Stratmann, R. (2004). Miteinander reden. Kommunikationspsychologie für Führungskräfte. Reinbek: Rowohlt.
Steiger, Th. & Lippmann, E. (Hrsg.). (2003). Handbuch angewandte Psychologie für Führungskräfte (2. Aufl.). Berlin: Springer.
Course Requirements
Efficiency Rating/
Certificate Requirements
Written examination (90 minutes)
Accessing Courses
Page 19 of 47
Leadership & Personal Development
Name of Course Leadership & Personal Development (course content is subject to change)
Course Code LPDE ECTS-Credits (2x2) = 4 Language of Instruction: English
Course Type Core course Course Level Intermediate
Contact-hours tbd Total amount of work 120
Term Full-Time Study: 6th semester Exchange Students: Spring semester only
Lecturer Responsible Prof. Sigmar Willi
Lecturer Team Prof. Sigmar Willi, Prof. Thomas Metzger
Methods of Teaching and Learning
lectures, class discussion of cases, teamwork assignments for case discussion, videos, guided self study
Page 20 of 47
Leadership & Personal Development – Course A
Name of Module Leadership and Personal Development; Course A
Module Code LPDEa ECTS-Credits
2 (4) Language English
Module Type Compulsory module Module level intermediate
Contact Lessons 2 Total Workload 60 hours
Term Full-time Study: 6th term Exchange Students: Spring semester only
Lecturer Responsible Prof. Thomas Metzger
Lecturer Team Prof. Thomas Metzger (Course A); Prof. Sigmar Willi (Course B)
Methods of Teaching and Learning
Lecture, presentation, self-study, guided self-study, small group collaborative activities, group discussions, guided classroom discussion
Aims This module is designed to equip participants with advanced knowledge of the principals in organisational behaviour and leadership. A Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Major in International Management knows about the great importance of the so called “soft factors” (staff, skills, style) for the cultural aspects within an organisation and its entrepreneurial success. Well-founded knowledge about leadership skills and different leadership styles enable the students to lead individual employees and groups according to different situations and stakeholder oriented. In concrete leadership situations (as well as conflicts or bullying at work) the students know to attend organisational- and social-psychological aspects in connection with personality, structures or change dynamics. Basic knowledge of interconnected thinking, the stakeholder approach, the integrated management approach of the University of St.Gallen, strategy and structures of enterprises are required and enable the students to an integrated view of organisational behaviour and leadership.
Page 21 of 47
Module and Learning Objectives (Competencies)
Professional Competencies:
The students
know the criteria for success of leadership in different phases of the leadership process
know the importance of different leadership concepts in an organisational environment
are able to identify complex situations of organisational behaviour
are able to analyse leadership styles and classify different leadership situations using the continuum of leadership styles (Schmid/Tannenbaum)
know and are conscious of the dominant relevance of soft factors like “staff, style, skills” for the cultural influence in organisations
know to assess the environmental influences of the culture of an organisation
are aware of the significance of informal organisational structures regarding to leadership
know about the importance of the involvement of employees in a organisational change process
know how to implement different forms of the advancement for individual willingness of change in organisations
Methodological Competencies:
The students
know the systematic processes in problem solving and decision making and are able to adopt this processes in a social structure of an organisation
are able to manage an MbO-Process: develop specific tasks and goals for individual employees and reach an agreement with the employee
know how to identify and how to use a conflict solving method in conflicts within daily business or within project work
know about the interconnectedness of different social-psychological theories and the resultant importance of organisational culture in connection with concrete leadership situations of individuals and groups
Personal Competencies:
The students
are aware of their own values concerning their economical and social thinking;
are able to communicate and willing to develop these values during the examination of learning contents and argumentations with other students
show openness to critical statements of superiors and employees
are willing to reflect their own leadership skills and recognise their own strengths and weaknesses
know how to use their own leadership and motivation skills in a leading position of an organization
Social Competencies:
The students
are aware of their own values concerning ethical, economical and social questions and of their responsibility as a leader in an organisation
are able to communicate authentically and act in different business situations as a leader who assumes responsibility and duties to different stakeholders
are able to lead conflicts with the necessary assertiveness and empathy to the very best solution for the involved persons
Page 22 of 47
Module Content / Learning Content
Learning Block I: Leadership Theories and the Principles of Leadership
Introduction in leadership theories
Behavioural theories of leadership (leadership behaviour and management styles)
Contingency theories
Topical of current leadership research
Leadership and power
Power games in the organisation
Learning Block II: Management by Objectives / Management of Critical Situations
Management by Objectives
Conflicts and Management in Critical Situations
Critical Situations (bullying, sexual harassment etc.)
Learning Block III: Corporate Culture and Management of Change
Corporate Culture and Organisational Change
Management of Change
Module Structure Contact Studies (22 h) (14 x 90 minutes)
Self studies (38 h)
Preparation and review of the lessons
Homework
Prep reading
Preparation for the final exam
Teaching Materials Judge, Timothy A.; Robbins, Stephen. P. (2007). Essentials of Organisational Behavior (9th edition), Pearson: Prentice Hall (ISBN: 978-0-13-243152-1)
Module Requirements
Graded Performance
Compulsory Requirements
Final exam for the whole module LPDE (Course A and course B): 120 min
Follow-up Modules None
Page 23 of 47
Leadership & Personal Development – Course B
Name of Module Leadership & Personal Development; Course B Personal Development
Module Code LPDEb ECTS-Credits 2 (4) Language of Instruction: English
Module Type Specialisation Module Level
Contact-hours 2 Total amount of work 60
Term Full-Time Study: 6. semester Exchange Students: Spring semester only
Lecturer Responsible Prof. Sigmar Willi
Lecturer Team Prof. Sigmar Willi, Prof. Thomas Metzger (Course A)
Methods of Teaching and Learning
Classroom dialogue, presentation, individual work, partner work, group work, guest lectures, workshops, excursions, guided self study, self study
Aim In basic business studies, most often the subject matters are being learnt in an analytical and cognitive way which occupies the left brain side merely. This means the whole right side of the brain, which links intellect and emotions, is unutilised.
In this subject, students learn how to use and integrate the creative systemic side of thoughts and feelings for their prospective business environment.
Module Target / Learning Target (Competencies)
Professional competencies:
The students
- know modern techniques and trends in the area of personality and team development.
- include emotional and social components into the management of change and organisational development processes.
- know the essential areas of conflict to integrate the working world into a holistic plan for life.
Method competencies:
The students
- independently analyse and integrate values, feelings, and tenors to the personal development and leadership.
- independently analyse and integrate the taught instruments in human resource development and managerial functions.
Social competencies:
The students
- can convey their findings to different target groups.
- work on tasks in teams, they can give constructive criticism and are concurrently able to accept criticism themselves.
Self competencies:
The students
- become more open to a holistic view of human beings in their working world and in their socio-cultural environment.
- understand, that self-reflection and self-awareness essentially contribute to a long term increase in efficiency and effectiveness.
- are aware that the emotional component of our being is not to be isolated of the everyday working life but rather to be fully integrated.
- advance their abilities to set life goals themselves, which correspond with ones own resources.
- can access an individual set of reconciliation- and relaxation techniques.
- Open up the access to more energy and vitality.
Page 24 of 47
Module Content/ Learning Content
Learning block I - Emotional Intelligence
In learning block I we open up the question why intellectual abilities can be used best when the „emotional household“ is being taken care of. We will work up systematically the five levels of emotional intelligence after Daniel Goleman (self-awareness, self-management, self-motivation, empathy, social competence). With a number of exercises we will apply them to ourselves as well as to the group with the goal to better observe and influence feelings of our own and others.
Learning block II - Personality and team development with models based on psychometric measuring methods
In learning block II we will deal with psychometric measuring methods but also specifically with a personal Preference-Profil, which is based on the work of one of the most important researcher in the area of personality theory, Carl Gustav Jung, from Switzerland. A modern advancement of Jung’s work of typology and preferences can be found in the Insights Discovery Preference-model. Every student will get his or her personal profile where he or she can find indications of his / her preferences as well as strengths and weaknesses to be able to influence ones personal life plan more successfully.
Learning block III Life Balance, personal management
In learning block III we will be engaged in the so called “Work-Life-Balance”, whereas we talk of the Life-Balance, because work is an integrative part of life of everybody who is engaged in the working world. In a multi-option society it is especially important to set priorities and targets of life.
A holistic approach has a person who directs his / her strengths to his / her goals and who also looks after him-/herself on the path to the goal.
In a holistic mindset body, ghost, and feelings are equally taken into account.
Mental and relaxation techniques as well as physical and emotion exercises are included in all sessions of the learning blocks.
Module Structure
Gradation of Self-Study:
Contact hours (28h)
Cover the topics of learning blocks I - III
Guided self study
Self study (30h)
Readings, exercises, self and team reflection
Teaching material Scriptum Prof. Sigmar Willi, Exercise sheets (both for free) Insights Discovery Profile (CHF 50.-)
Module requirements
Efficiency rating/
Certificate Requirements
Final exam (120 min.)
Subsequent modules None
Page 25 of 47
Macro Economics II and Globalisation
Name of Course Macro Economics and Globalization (course content is subject to change)
Course Code MAGL ECTS-Credits 4 Language of Instruction: English
Course Type Core course Course Level Intermediate
Contact-hours 3 Total amount of work 120
Term Full-Time Study: 6th semester Exchange Students: Spring semester only
Lecturer Responsible Elisabeth Ziegler-Hasiba
Lecturer Team Elisabeth Ziegler-Hasiba
Methods of Teaching and Learning
Teacher-conducted class work, partner work, individual work, class discussions, group work
Aim Students should get acquainted with the importance of the international economic integration, especially of some Organisations of the World Economy.
Economic integration is also determined by some emerging markets and the effect of this group of countries on global economics and politics.
A further purpose of this lecture is to consider the impacts and political consequences of the climate change. The students analyse the concept of externalities They will focus on the environmental and economic aspects of mitigation of climate change. The most important milestone of the international climate negotiation process is the Kyoto protocol which has set targets for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and which came into force in 2005.
The main instruments are trade permission permits. The students will therefore discuss the role of emission trading in financing global protection efforts and the role of financial markets to meet the economic challenges of climate change.
Course Target / Learning Target (Competencies)
Professional Competencies
o distinguish between different types of externalities
o analyze the different causes for externalities
o describe the consequences of the Kyoto Protocol on national environmental policy
o analyze the role of the financial market with reference to the environmental policy
o describe and review globalization from the economic, political, cultural and ecological point of view
Methodological Competencies:
o analyse the effects of environmental policies with microeconomic models
o express an own opinion with the help of special techniques of argumentation
Social Competencies:
o present the own opinion with the help of a strict structure of argumentation
o work competently in teams
Self Competencies:
o show interest in economic and ecological problems
o is willing to tackle our system of values and to cooperate in resolving conflicts
o develop the ability to engage self-critically in the learning process and to engage in teamwork
Course Content/ Learning Content
Topics Block I: Emerging economies and their impact on the world economy
o Different aspects of integration of emerging economies
Topics Block II: The organisations of the world economy
o Arguments pro and contra a free world market
o The International Monetary Fund
o The World Bank
o The WTO
Topics Block III: Climate Change and the financial market
o The Kyoto Protocol
Page 26 of 47
o The role of the financial market
o Causes of growth and growth strategy
Course Structure Contact Hours (34h = 32 lections plus 2h examination)
Self-Study (67h)
homework, preparation of presentations,reading
Teaching material Mankiw, G. N. (2004). Grundzüge der Volkswirtschaftslehre. 3.
überarbeitete Auflage. Aus dem amerikanischen Englisch übertragen von
Adolf Wagner und Marco Herrmann. Stuttgart: Schäffer-Poeschel Verlag. ISBN 3-7910-2163-X
o Herrmann, M. (2004). Arbeitsbuch Grundzüge der Volkswirtschaftslehre. 2.,
überarbeitete Auflage. Stuttgart: Schäffer-Poeschel Verlag. ISBN 3-7910-2190-7
o Mankiw, G. N. (2003). Principles of economics. 3rd ed. Cincinnati, Ohio :
South-Western College Publishing ISBN 0-324-16862-4 (fakultativ)
o Beiträge aus renommierten nationalen und internationalen Zeitschriften und
Zeitungen (Economist, Die Volkswirtschaft, NZZ, FAZ u. a.)
Course Requirements
Efficiency Rating/ One written examination (120 minutes))
Subsequent Courses
Page 27 of 47
International Law
Name of Course International Law (Course A and B
Course Code ILAW ECTS-Credits (2x2) 4 Language of Instruction: English
Course Type Core course Course Level Intermediate
Contact-hours tbd Total amount of work 120
Term Full-Time Study: 6th semester Exchange Students: Spring semester only
Page 28 of 47
International Law – Course A
Name of Module International Law: Constitutional Law and Comparison of Political Systems
Module Code ILAW A ECTS-Credits 2 Language of Instruction English
Module Type Compulsory module Module Level basics
Contact Lessons 14 x 2 Total Workload 60 hours
Term Full-time Study: 6 Exchange Students: Spring semester only
Lecturer Responsible David Kobler, lic.iur.HSG et lic.oec.HSG, Dipl. Wirtschaftspädagoge
Lecturer Team David Kobler
Methods of Teaching and Learning
Lecture, presentation, self-study, guided self-study, small group collaborative activities, group discussions, guided classroom discussion
Aims This module is designed to equip participants with advanced knowledge of the structures and principals of constitutional law as well as to provide a deeper understanding of political systems and processes. An emphasis is placed on Swiss political institutions, rounded out by a comparison with other political systems, since democracy is not a single phenomenon, but has many manifestations. Comparative politics, defined as examining political realities in different countries, focuses on the many ways governments and parliaments are structured and the ways they operate as well as the process through which authorities interact with their populations in pursuing community goals.
Another aim of this course is to raise awareness of the fundamental rights and the values, which they embody.
Module and Learning Objectives (Competencies)
Professional Competencies:
Students should have an improved knowledge of:
the most important structures and principals of constitutional law;
the Swiss Federal Constitution, its relevance as the fundamental legal framework of our political system and the procedure of its amendment;
the federalistic state structure of Switzerland, the responsibilities of the Confederation and the Cantons and the legislative procedures;
different aspects of different political systems by analyzing similarities and differences between the Swiss and other political systems;
possibilities and limits of political influence on Federal level;
the fundamental rights as a constitutionally protected sphere of the individual with respect to the state;
restrictions of fundamental rights and its pre-requisites (adequate statutory basis, public interest, proportionality).
Methodological Competencies:
Students should have acquired:
the legal knowledge necessary for the solution of simple problems of public law;
the ability to construe and solve problems relating to the principle of legality and the fundamental principles of the public interest and proportionality with reference to concrete examples.
Personal Competencies:
Students should:
have acquired an awareness of the problems in the sensitive fields of constitutional law;
behave in a legally correct manner;
have acquired the ability to analyze political realities in awareness of the fundamental principles of the Federal constitution;
develop a critical-constructive attitude towards approaching legal questions.
Social Competencies:
Students should be able to:
work in teams in a goal-oriented manner;
present a teamwork result in a target-group-oriented and appropriate fashion.
Page 29 of 47
Module Content /
Learning Content
Learning Block I: State Organisation and State Institutions
The Fundamental Principles of State Law and of the Federal Constitution
The structure of the State
Political Rights
Federal authorities
Comparison of political systems
Learning Block II: Fundamental Rights
Overview over the Fundamental Rights
Fundamental Rights in detail
Limitations of Fundamental Rights
Module Structure Contact studies (22 h) (14 x 90 minutes)
Self studies (38 h): Review contact-study material, read literature, prepare for the exams
Teaching Materials Swiss Federal Constitution Kobler, D. (2007). Swiss Constitutional Law. Script. Mörschwil Various readers and practical examples
Module Requirements Basic knowledge of the Swiss political system. Check the reader “Switzerland in brief – Swiss democracy” on the Learner’s Platform
Graded Performance Compulsory Requirements
Final module exam (60 minutes) at the end of the semester (graded performance)
Page 30 of 47
International Law – Course B
Name of Module International Law: European Business Law
Module Code ILAW B ECTS-Credits 2 Language of Instruction: English
Module Type Compulsory module Module Level basics
Contact Lessons 14 x 2 Total Workload 60 hours
Term Full-Time Study: 6 Exchange Students: Spring semester only
Lecturer Responsible Doris Walser
Lecturer Team Doris Walser, Marc Schröder
Methods of Teaching and Learning
Presentation, case works, guided self-study of judgments, self-study
Aim Working in an international company as future management expert asks for basic knowledge of the European Business Law.
The free trade, the freedom of movement for persons, of providing services and of capital transfer within the European Union offer a lot of opportunities to a company but also to the students. It is an advantage to know them within their legal frames in order to be able to use them efficiently in the future.
Knowing the rules of a fair behavior in competition a future employee may protect the company from fines in high amounts. The students will be informed about the "dos" and "don'ts" under EC Competition Law to an extent that allows them to recognize the risks and to correctly behave in competition.
Legal aspects of some other business fields, such as financial services, consumer protection, product liability law etc. will complete the students' knowledge in European business law.
Page 31 of 47
Module / Learning Objectives (Competencies)
Professional Competencies:
Students know:
the institutions of the European Union and their function
the legal sources and protection of the European Union
the requirements, contents and legal frames of the four basic freedoms of the European Union including their opportunities and risks
the basics and regulations of the EC Competition Law
the correct behaviour in competition
the horizontal and vertical restraints of competition
the additional rules to be applied by companies with a dominant position
the EC merger control regulations
the legal basics of financial services
the basics of product safety and product liability law
Methodological Competencies:
Students know:
how to recognize legal problems
how to correctly behave under European business law
how to search for problem solutions
how to persuade its collegues to apply to the legal regulations and to instruct them accordingly.
Social Competencies:
Students:
act as fair players in the market
communicate in a fair and open way without suggestive wording
work in teams in a goal-oriented manner
present a teamwork result in a target-group-oriented and appropriate fashion
motivate the team to a legally correct behavior.
Personal Competencies:
Students:
behave in a legally correct manner
develop a critical-constructive attitude towards approaching legal questions
develop an awareness of the consequences of violating any legal regulations.
Page 32 of 47
Module Content/ Learning Content
Block I: Basics of the European Business Law
Institutions of the European Union
Legal sources of the Common Law
Legal protection, proceedings by the European Courts
The four basic freedoms:
- Free movement of goods
- Free movement of persons
- Free movement of services
- Free movement of capital and payments
Block II: EC Competition Law
Introduction and legal regulations
Horizontal and vertical restraints of competition
Abuse of a dominant position
EC Merger Control
Sanctions and enforcement of the competition law
Block III: Legal aspects of some other business fields
Legal basics of financial services
Legal basics of consumer protection
Legal basics of product safety and product liability law
Legal basics of representative law
Repetition
Module Structure
Contact studies (21 h)
14x 90 minutes
Guided self-study (10 h)
Analysing a Commission decision or a Court judgment with instructor coaching
Self-study (29 h)
review contact-study material
read literature (Articles of EC Treaty, Commission Regulations and Directives)
prepare for the exams
Teaching Materials Lecture presentations
Practical examples
EC Treaty
Various Commission Regulations
Various Commission decisions and Court judgments
Module Requirements / Prerequisits
Basic knowledge in the national law of contract, the commercial law and the company law
Graded Performance/ Compulsory Requirement
Analysing and presenting a résumé of a decision or judgment in a team, with satisfactory performance (compulsory requirement)
Final module exam (60 minutes) at the end of the semester (graded performance)
Follow-up Modules
Page 33 of 47
Business Informatics
Name of Course Business Informatics (course content is subject to change)
Course Code INFB ECTS-Credits 4 Language of Instruction: English
Course Type Core course Course Level intermediate
Contact-hours 56 Total amount of work 120
Term Full-Time Study: 6th semester Exchange Students: Spring / Fall
Lecturer Responsible Prof. Dr. Rainer Endl
Lecturer Team Dr. Stefan Stöckler
Methods of Teaching and Learning
Lectures, case discussions, extended self study, guided practical software tutorials, homework
Aim The operational information processing and -provision of information technology is in many industries and businesses an important success factor. In order to understand the influence of the information technology as "Enabler "of business organizations and the interaction between business organization and information technology, a fundamental understanding of IT specific project management, procedure and selection methods, development and integration of software is essential.
A Bachelor of Science graduate attains the necessary knowledge in order to co-operate in the planning process and formation process of new information systems or to take over control of smaller information technology-projects. He or she will be accepted of IT-specialists as a competent interlocutor.
Course Target / Learning Target (Competencies)
Professional Competencies:
Plan, conceive and realize the fundamentals of the procurement of a manageable operational information system
To take up sourcing of IT resources in consideration with management- and-IT-criteria
Methodological Competencies: To understand and use the fundamentals of methods of system analysis and system development To utilize essential functions of tools for the IT project management To utilize the functional range of a typical software-development environment
Social Competencies:
Recognize, understand and avoid problems in association with the different claim groups - manufacturers, advisers, IT-specialists and project colleagues
Self Competencies: To question the own considerations and decisions critically To be aware of the fact that 40% of the IT-projects fail because of psychological reasons.
Course Content/ Learning Content
Course content I: Fundamentals of IT-projects
Fundamentals and principles of an organization of information technology
Initialization and preliminary study of IT-projects
Planning of a project with a suitable project management-tool
Course content II: Philosophy of the future system
Principles to the analysis and design of software systems
Request analysis, definition and philosophy of the future system
Request specification (including. Process and data modeling) with a modern development tool
Principles and procedures with the evaluation of Hard- and software
Course content III:Realization of the information system
Implementation of a system-design with a suitable software development tool
Programming of the functionality according to request specification
Project review
Teaching material Required material: Material on the e-learning portal of FHS
Efficiency Rating/
Certificate Requirements
Written exam (50%)
Performance evaluation: Case study, Group work (50%)
Page 34 of 47
Global Relations
Name of Course Global Relations (course content is subject to change)
Course Code GREL ECTS-Credits 3 Language of Instruction: English
Course Type Core course Course Level specialised
Contact-hours Total 25 Total amount of work 90
Term Full-Time Study: 6th semester Exchange Students: Spring semester only
Lecturer Responsible Prof. Dr. Armin Jans
Lecturer Team Dr. Armin Jans, Prof. Dr. Werner Siegenthaler
Methods of Teaching and Learning
Phase 1: lectures with exercises
Phase 2: writing of papers by student teams, coached by the teachers
Phase 3: Presentation and discussion of papers
Aim The participants are able to analyze and evaluate the process of economic
globalization and are aware of its long-lasting historical background
Course Target / Learning Target (Competencies)
Professional competencies:
o Description and analysis of the most important aspects of economic globalization
o Historical understanding of global economic developments as well as their social and political roots
o Deeper understanding of a self-selected topic of globalization
Methodological competencies:
o recognizing patterns of development, allowing limited forecasts
o application of basic economic concepts for description and analysis
(Balance of payments, exchange rate systems, AD-AS-diagram etc.)
Social competencies:
o writing of a paper in a very small team
Self competencies:
o retrieval of meaningful and reliable information
o formulation and weighting of arguments, presentation
Course Content/ Learning Content
Topics learning block I:
• Economic globalization - 8 pictures
• Definition of globalization
• Presentation of topics for papers
Topics learning block II:
• Merchant capitalism and mercantilism
• Imperialism, the first half of the 20th century
• The Period after World War II
• Introduction to topics for papers
Topics learning block III:
• Basic economic processes in global markets
• Migration and remittances of emigrants
• Financial crises and global financial architecture
• Introduction to topics for papers
Page 35 of 47
Course Structure Contact hours (25h)
Guided self study (5h)
coaching by the teachers (by mail, phone, mid-term discussion)
Self study (60h)
o writing a paper from material collected from appropriate sources
o preparation of a presentation from the material of the paper
Teaching material • course documentation (compulsory)
• Brakman Steven u. a., Nations and Firms in the Global Economy. An Introduction to
International Economics and Business, Cambridge University Press 2006 (library)
• Atlas of Globalization, Le Monde diplomatique - TAZ-Verlag Berlin, ed. 2006 (library)
• Buch Werner (library)
Course Requirements
Efficiency Rating/ Paper (weight 3/4) and presentation of the paper (weight 1/4) form the basis for mark and
the allocation of the 3 ECTS-points
Subsequent Courses
Page 36 of 47
Business Statistics
Name of Course Business Statistics
Course Code BSTA ECTS-Credits 2 Language of Instruction: English
Course Type Elective course Course Level Intermediate
Contact-hours 2 Total amount of work 60
Term Full-Time Study: 6th semester Exchange Students: Spring semester only
Lecturer Responsible Dr. Stefan Ch. Ott, Dipl.-Math. oec
Lecturer Team Dr. Stefan Ch. Ott, Dipl.-Math. oec
Methods of Teaching and Learning
Presentation, (computer-aided) group work, (computer-aided) individual work
and private study
Aim Typically, students find themselves confronted with two problems in the context of consulting projects and with academic work: on the one hand, it is difficult for them to use modern computer software to apply the statistical procedures learned in the basic course of studies; on the other hand, many complex problems cannot be tackled with familiar basic methods. This course aims to resolve this dilemma, by building on students’ knowledge of statistics gained in the basic course of studies. Using examples from current company practice, students are familiarised with the fundamentals of applied statistics used in everyday management decision-making. In addition to a systematic introduction to (statistical) methods of empirical research, particular attention is paid to techniques for effectively using modern statistics software (SPSS, Microsoft Excel).
The course is especially useful for students who intend to use advanced research methods in their bachelor thesis or to start master studies at university level.
Course Target / Learning Target (Competencies)
Professional Competencies:
Students know and understand the fundamentals of multivariate and nonparametric statistics
Students know and understand the chances and limitations of multivariate and nonparametric statistical research methods
Students are able to interpret results of calculations correctly
Methodological Competencies:
Students know how to use statistical research methods appropriately in everyday management decision making as well as in academic work
Students know how to model practical research problems and how to use statistics software
Students are familiar with basic concepts of quantitative research methods and are able to acquaint themselves with new and unknown methods on their own
Social Competencies:
Students work individually and in groups to solve complex quantitative problems
Students are able to communicate results and conclusions of the analysis correctly, concisely, and generally understandably.
Course Content/ Learning Content
Overview:
Management decision-making based on statistical analysis
Topics/Learning content I:
Theoretical Fundamentals and Practical Computer-Aided Implementation of Basic Contents of Descriptive and Inductive Statistics
One-dimensional frequency distributions and basic descriptive parameters
Theory of estimation and testing statistical hypotheses
Multi-dimensional distributions
Linear regression and correlation
Regression: assumptions and diagnostics
Topics/Learning content II:
Theoretical Fundamentals and Practical Computer-Aided Implementation of Multivariate Statistical Procedures
Page 37 of 47
Multiple linear Regression
Analysis of Variance (ANOVA)
Classification procedures
Factor analysis
Topics/Learning content III:
Theoretical Fundamentals and Practical Computer-Aided Implementation of Non-Parametric Procedures
2-saple tests (Wilcoxon signed rank test, Wilcoxon rank sum test)
Multi-sample tests (Kruskal-Wallis test, Friedman Test)
Topics/Learning content IV:
Applied empirical research
Course Structure Contact Hours 28 x 0.75 = 21 hrs
Guided self study: 20 hrs
Self Study: 20 hrs
Self-Study: Exercises (computer-aided group work and individual work)
Teaching material Stefan Ch. Ott: Lecture notes on Business Statistics
Stefan Ch. Ott: Exercises on Business Statistics
Anthony Bevan: Basic Marketing Research with SPSS 13.0 Student CD A
Decision-Making Approach, Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458, 2005
Marija Norusis: SPSS 11.0: Guide to Data Analysis, Upper Saddle River, New
Jersey 07458, 2002
Michael Monka, Werner Voss: Statistik am PC Lösungen mit Excel 97, 2000,
2002 und 2003, München, Wien 2005
Course Requirements MST1, MST2, MST3
Efficiency Rating/ Written exam (case study)
Subsequent Courses
Page 38 of 47
German Basics
Name of Course German Basic Course
Course Code GEBA ECTS-Credits 4 Language of Instruction: German
Course Type Course Level basic
Contact-hours 3 Total amount of work 120
Term Full-Time Study: Summer term Exchange Students: Spring / Fall
Lecturer Responsible Natalie Pesic
Lecturer Team Not yet determined
Methods of Teaching and Learning
Informed by current research in teaching and learning, a variety of methods are adopted.
Aim To provide students the language they require during their stay in Switzerland.
Course Target / Learning Target (Competencies)
Professional Competencies: to make oneself understood in everyday situations (restaurants, following directions, small talk, basic work and study situations); to write simple texts; to conduct simple telephone conversations; a basic understanding of the Swiss and German culture
Methodological Competencies: to survive in a foreign culture and language environment; self-learning capacities
Course Content/ Learning Content
Learning Content I:
Topics: people, languages, countries; giving and understanding directions; ordering in a restaurant; making an appointment; days, time, and numbers
Grammar: verb and subject; affirmative sentences and questions; imperative; present tense; negation; accusative and nominative; articles and nouns; singular and plural
Learning Content II:
Topics: how to learn a language; organising a party; colors, buildings landscapes; descriptions; rooms and measurements; quality and price
Grammar: modal verbs; position of verb; possessive articles; adjectives; dative, personal pronouns
Learning Content III:
Topics: how to express presumptions; the weather; travel; getting to know a city; food and drink
Grammar: perfect tense; 2nd participle; regular and irregular verbs; conjugation; prepositions (1)
Learning Content IV:
Topics: parts of the body; describing movement; at the doctor's; revision
Grammar: prepositions (2); reflexive verbs; main clause and subclause; conditionals
Course Structure Contact Hours: 42 x 0.75 = 42 hrs
Guided Self-Study: 80 hours
Teaching material Moment mal! Lehrbuch 1: ISBN 3-468-47751-1
Moment mal! Arbeitsbuch 1: ISBN 3-468-47752-X
Course Requirements No prerequisites required
Efficiency Rating/ Written examination
Page 39 of 47
German Intermediate
Name of Course German Intermediate Course (provisional)
Course Code GEIN ECTS-Credits 4 Language of Instruction: German
Course Type Course Level basic
Contact-hours 3 Total amount of work 120
Term Full-Time Study: Summer term Exchange Students: Spring / Fall
Lecturer Responsible Nico Spahni
Lecturer Team Nico Spahni
Methods of Teaching and Learning
Informed by current research in teaching and learning, a variety of methods are adopted.
Aim To improve the basic skills of German language during the stay in Switzerland.
Course Target / Learning Target (Competencies)
Professional Competencies:
Methodological Competencies:
Course Content/ Learning Content
Learning Content I:
Based on a entry test, the course content will be adapted to the knowledge of participants.
Course Structure
Contact Hours: 42 x 0.75 = 32
Guided Self-Study: 60 hrs
Self-Study: 20 hrs
Teaching material Moment mal! Lehrbuch 2
Moment mal! Arbeitsbuch 2
Course Requirements An entrance test will be made
Efficiency Rating/ Written examination
Page 40 of 47
Business English 4
Name of Course Business English
Course Code ENG4 ECTS-Credits 2 Language of Instruction: English
Course Type elective Course Level advanced
Contact-hours 2 Total amount of work 60 hours
Term Full-Time Study: 6 Exchange Students: Spring / Fall
Lecturer Responsible Alan Jackson
Lecturer Team Alan Jackson, Ms. Tracy Tobler
Methods of Teaching and Learning
Teacher-conducted class work, partner work, individual work, class discussion, group & partner discussion, role-play, individual presentation.
Aim The main aims of this Course are:
- to enable students to keep and improve their level of performance in the 4 language skills and further develop business-related lexis and structural accuracy.
- to provide the students with the necessary training to enable them to pass an internationally recognised qualification in English (Cambridge Business English Certificate)
- to facilitate the employability of students in an English-speaking business environment by training the skills necessary for successfully making an application in English for a work position or study course (CV, letter of application, interview etc,), ensuring that they have the confidence to deal with all the interrelated aspects of business management in the foreign language both in future career development and in their place of work.
Course Target / Learning Target (Competencies)
Professional Competencies:
- to be able to extract required information from a variety of spoken and written texts and to be able to deal with uncertainties
- to be able to communicate appropriately and convincingly in the spoken and written mode in order to carry out business-related tasks
- to be able to assume the roles of both speaker and listener with equal confidence and efficacy in situations such as presentations, interviews, discussions etc.
- to be able to appraise the effectiveness of written texts and to use this awareness for the successful production of own texts
- to achieve a level of fluency in the foreign language which allows students to concentrate on the topic or the matter in hand rather than the language
Methodological Competencies:
- recognising and adopting the appropriate formats and styles of different types of spoken and written communication
- an awareness of and an ability to employ devices which contribute to linguistic precision and conciseness
- possessing efficient strategies for dealing with uncertainties or potential misunderstandings
Social Competences
- recognition and adoption of cultural / linguistic aspects specific to English-language communication in situations such as presentations of oneself, an organisation, facts and opinions
- how to appropriately express interest, approval, disagreement etc., seek and offer clarification
- ability to speak and write with the recipient’s point of view in mind
- ability to detect the speaker’s or writer’s underlying attitude
Individual Competences
- willingness and ability to recognise one’s own errors and to correct them when and as appropriate
Course Content/ Learning Content
Topics/Learning Block I:
Intensive BEC Higher Exam Practice, Reading Tasks, Writing Tasks, Listening Tasks, Speaking Tasks
Topics/Learning Block II:
Job Applications, Company Case Studies
Page 41 of 47
Topics/Learning Block III:
Revision
Semester test
Course Structure
Gradation of Self-Study:
Contact Hours (24) hours
Guided Self-Study
Self-Study (36 hours)
Homework, extended home study, preparation for contact lessons, follow-up work from contact lessons, test preparation
Teaching material Recorded broadcasts and archived audio material from the BBC
Adapted written material from press and media sources
BEC Higher test materials
Specially produced practice worksheets
Course Requirements in accordance with model study plan
Efficiency Rating/ One Course test of approx. 60 minutes and one Modulschlussprüfung of 60 minutes.
Subsequent Courses -
Page 42 of 47
Spanish for Beginners
Course name Spanish
Course code SPA1 ECTS Credits 2 Language of instruction
Spanish / German
Type of Course Elective course Level of course Beginner
Lessons of contact 2 Overall working hours 50 hours
Semester 4th semester Exchange Students: Spring / Fall
Responsible lecturer Sylvia Amin
Method of learning Conversation, self study, group study, role play
Idea of course
The elective course “Spanish” is created for students, who would like to learn the basics of another foreign language. The students learn to communicate on a basic level with people in a Spanish speaking country. Furhter, they learn to make oneself understood in everyday situations. In doing so, students get an insight in the spanish and latin american world.
Course/Learning Objectives (Competencies)
Professional Competencies:
- to understand spoken messages
- Write and understand essays
- Grammar, structure
- To learn and enhance Basic vocabulary
- To get to know cultural aspects in the Spanish / Latin American world
Methodological Competencies:
- Students shall be able to communicate about the lessons learnt
- Based on interdisciplinary and creative thinking, students will generate a big passive vocabulary thanks to the knowledge of other foreign languages
Social Competencies:
Spanish is a language that a lot of people in the world speak. It gives students the possibility to communicate with people from different countries and therefore get to know their culture.
Course contents: Topics:
Vocabulary:
Presentation, jobs, numbers, restaurants, time and dates, shopping, following directions
Communication:
Conversations to the above mentioned topics as well as simple text writing
Grammar:
Verbs in present tense and near future, affirmative sentences, prepositions, adjectives, dative pronouns, demonstrative pronouns.
Course structure: Contact hours: 28 x 0.75 = 21 hrs
Guided self study: 40 hrs
independent learning of vocabulary
Exam preparation
Teaching material Castells Fernandez, Nieves / Mechtild Lohmann / Lidia Santiso Saco: Mirada, Ismaning, 1997
Additional Material (texts, exercises) during the lessons.
Course requirements No prerequisites required
Efficiency rating Two written exams / each 45 minutes during the course
Page 43 of 47
Italian for Beginners
Course name Italian I
Course code ITA1 ECTS Credits 2 Language of instruction
Spanish / German
Type of Course Elective course Level of course Beginner
Lessons of contact 2 Overall working hours 60 hours
Semester 4th semester Exchange Students: Fall semester only
Responsible lecturer
Team of professors
Ms. Sandra Trösch
Method of learning Lecture, conversation, self study, group study, role play, guided self study
Idea of course
The elective course “Italian” is given for students who are aware of the importance of this international language in a political, economical and cultural world. This language is especially important for Switzerland, because part of it is speaking Italian and the city Lugano serves as international trading point.
Course/Learning Objectives (Competencies)
Professional Competencies:
Knowledge of basic grammatical structures
To have good command of the basic vocabulary
Training of the Italian modulation and structure of sentences
Methodological Competencies:
Asking questions in daily situations
Communication in context
Writing of simple newspaper messages
Social Competencies:
To communicate properly with people of different heritage
To get an introduction of the Italian mentality
Course contents: Course content I:
Buongiorno Lezione 1: Greeting, first contact reception
Course content II:
Buongiorno Lezione 2: Simple conversation (at the beach, in a caffee, on the street), telephone conversation
Course content III:
Buongiorno Lezione 3: Suggestions, agreements, offers, acceptance, declines, asking for prices
Course content IV:
Buongiorno Lezione 4: Asking for a hotel room, asking for telephone numbers
Course structure: Contact hours: 28 x 0.75 = 21 hrs
Guided self study: 5 hrs
Exercises, preparing dialogues
Self study: 34 hrs
Exercises, vocabulary training, completing dialogues, simple translations, preparation for exams
Teaching material Buongiorno work book and exercise book
Course requirements No prerequisites required
Efficiency rating Two written exams / each 45 minutes during the course
Page 44 of 47
Spanish Intermediate
Course name Spanish II
Course code SPA2 ECTS Credits 2 Language of instruction
Spanish / German
Type of Course Elective course Level of course Beginner
Lessons of contact 2 Overall working hours 60 hours
Semester 4th semester Exchange Students: Fall semester only
Responsible lecturer Sylvia Amin
Method of learning Conversation, self study, group study, role play
Idea of course
The elective course “Spanish II ” is a continuative course of “Spanish I” and enhances the topics learnt. The main topic of this course is the past tense “Indefinido” to be able to talk about past events.
Course/Learning Objectives (Competencies)
Professional Competencies:
to understand spoken messages
Write and understand essays
Past tense “Indefinido”
To broaden Basic vocabulary
To get to know cultural aspects in the Spanish / Latin American world
Methodological Competencies:
Students shall be able to communicate about the lessons learnt
Based on interdisciplinary and creative thinking, students will generate a big passive vocabulary thanks to the knowledge of other foreign languages
Social Competencies:
Spanish is a language, that a lot of people in the world speak. It gives students the possibility to communicate with people from different countries and therefore get to know their culture.
Course contents: Topics:
Vocabulary for:
Weather, travel, traffic, living, Hotel reservations, complaints, family, description of people
Communication:
Conversations to the above mentioned topics as well as simple text writing and listening
Grammar:
Verbs in present tense and past tense, comparatives, conditional, possessive pronouns.
Course structure: Contact hours: 28 x 0.75 = 21 hrs
Guided self study: 40 hrs
independent learning of vocabulary
Exam preparation
Teaching material Castells Fernandez, Nieves / Mechtild Lohmann / Lidia Santiso Saco: Mirada, Ismaning, 1997
Additional Material (texts, exercises) during the lessons.
Course requirements No prerequisites required
Efficiency rating Two written exams / each 45 minutes during the course
Page 45 of 47
Italian Intermediate
Course name Italian II
Course code ITA1 ECTS Credits 2 Language of instruction
Italian / German
Type of Course Elective course Level of course Intermediate
Lessons of contact 2 Overall working hours 60 hours
Semester 4th semester Exchange Students: Spring semester only
Responsible lecturer Ms. Sandra Trösch
Method of learning Lecture, conversation, self study, group study, role play, guided self study
Idea of course
The elective course “Italian” is given for students who are aware of the importance of this international language in a political, economical and cultural world. This language is especially important for Switzerland, because part of it is speaking Italian and the city Lugano serves as international trading point.
Course/Learning Objectives (Competencies)
Professional Competencies:
Knowledge of basic grammatical structures
To have good command of the basic vocabulary
Training of the Italian modulation and structure of sentences
Methodological Competencies:
Asking questions in daily situations
Communication in context
Writing of simple newspaper messages
Social Competencies:
To communicate properly with people of different heritage
To get an introduction of the Italian mentality
Course contents: Course content I:
Buongiorno Lezione 5: Asking for directions
Talking of oneself and third persons
Course content II:
Buongiorno Lezione 6: Talks during shopping
Talking about important issues
Course content III:
Buongiorno Lezione 7: Talking about past events
Express affiliations
Talking about business
Course structure: Contact hours: 28 x 0.75 = 21 hrs
Guided self study: 5 hrs
Exercises, preparing dialogues
Self study: 34 hrs
Exercises, vocabulary training, completing dialogues, simple translations, preparation for exams
Teaching material Buongiorno work book and exercise book
Course requirements No prerequisites required
Efficiency rating Two written exams / each 45 minutes during the course
Page 46 of 47
Courses in German To get a complete overview of all courses taught in German, please visit our e-learning Portal.
- www.fhsg.ch/lernportal - Click on one of the listed Lernportals and select a item (course)
Contact information If you have any further questions, please contact the International Office of the Department of Business Administration. FHS St.Gallen International Office Kreuzbleicheweg 4 CH-9013 St.Gallen Switzerland Tel: 0041 71 274 36 25 Fax: 0041 71 274 36 94 Email: international@fhsg.ch
Recommended