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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2019 - 2020

Module Title Business and Professional Ethics
Module Code AC402
School DCUBS

Online Module Resources

NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description

The area of business ethics is becoming of increased importance in the corporate world today. Many business practices are now regularly the focus of media attention, including the use of sweatshop labour, environmental damage and, in more recent times, corporate tax planning. This module will introduce students to the principles of business ethics with a focus on the practical implications of business ethics on businesses and their various stakeholders. Students will discuss and debate the underlying role and responsibility of a business in society while also looking at case studies on various ethical issues. An introduction to several ethical theories will be used to provide students with a foundation on the various perspectives underlying business ethics and apply these to various practical business situations. The rising area of ethical consumerism will be discussed along with the impact globalisation is having on ethical practices in business. The module will also introduce students to the area of professional ethics.

Learning Outcomes

1. Identify the relevance and practical application of business and professional ethics in the working world;
2. Recognise the increased responsibility of businesses to various stakeholders
3. Understand the various normative ethical theories and how these can be useful when examining business issues
4. Apply an ethical decision making framework to various practical business situations
5. Identify the main ethical issues that can arise when dealing with various stakeholders of a business (e.g. customers, suppliers, shareholders, employees)
6. Understand the rising role of ethical consumerism and its impact on business practices
7. Illustrate an awareness of the impact of globalisation on business issues
8. Recognise the importance of professional ethics and the structures in place across various professions



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture24Weekly
Group work40Review, discussion and preparation of group continuous assessment
Independent Study61No Description
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Introduction to business ethics

Context of business ethics – role of a company

Normative ethical theories

Ethical decision making framework

Business stakeholders & ethical issues

Developing an ethical infrastructure

Ethical consumerism

Professional ethics

Globalisation & business ethics

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment100% Examination Weight0%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable
Indicative Reading List

  • Peter Stanwick, Sarah Stanwick.: 0, Understanding business ethics, 9781452256559
  • O.C. Ferrell, John Fraedrich, Linda Ferrell.: 2015, Business ethics, 10th, 1285423712
  • Andrew Crane, Dirk Matten,: 2010, Business Ethics, 3rd, 9780199564330
  • Carroll, B. and Buchholtz, A.: 2015, Business and Society: Ethics, Sustainability and Stakeholder Management, 978-1285734293
Other Resources

None
Programme or List of Programmes
AFBA in Accounting and Finance
AFUAge Friendly University Programme
AMPSBSc in Aviation Management
BSBachelor of Business Studies
BSSAStudy Abroad (DCU Business School)
BSSAOStudy Abroad (DCU Business School)
EBBA in Global Business
EBCBA in Global Business (Canada)
EBFBA in Global Business (France)
EBGBA in Global Business (Germany)
EBSBA in Global Business (Spain)
EBTBA in Global Business (USA)
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