Business and Economics in a Changing World module (BU42025)

​​Contemporary businesses and economies operate in an increasingly complex global environment shaped by international trade, inequality, technological change, sustainability challenges, and geopolitical uncertainty. 

​In this module, you will explore how economic theories and analytical tools can be used to understand and evaluate some of the most important economic and social issues affecting the modern world. The module examines the interaction between business, government, and 
society, with particular attention to the political, institutional, and social contexts in which economies develop and businesses operate. 

​Through lectures, tutorials, discussions, case studies, and independent research, you will develop the ability to critically analyse real-world economic problems and assess policy responses from multiple perspectives. 

​Topics studied may include international trade, economic growth and development, inequality, institutions, climate change, crime, discrimination, and social security. 

​What you will learn 

​In this module, you will: 

• ​explore contemporary global issues affecting business and economics  
• ​study how economic theories can be applied to real-world challenges  
• ​examine the political, social, and institutional factors influencing 
  economic development and sustainability  
• ​analyse the relationship between business, government, and society  
• ​investigate issues such as inequality, climate change, trade, crime, 
  and discrimination  
• ​develop critical thinking and analytical skills using academic and 
  policy-based evidence  
• ​strengthen written and oral communication skills through coursework 
  and discussion  

​By the end of this module, you will be able to: 

• ​understand the social, political, and institutional contexts in which 
  businesses and economies operate  
• ​analyse business and economic issues using economic theories and 
  evidence  
• ​critically evaluate economic policies and business decisions  
• ​interpret economic problems within broader historical and societal 
  contexts  
• ​communicate economic ideas effectively in written and oral forms  
• ​critically review academic and policy literature on economic issues

Assignments / assessments

• ​Group presentation (40%)  
• ​Individual essay (60%)  

​The group presentation focuses on analysing contemporary economic issues and communicating ideas effectively using economic theories and 
evidence. 

​The individual essay develops independent critical analysis and the ability to evaluate academic and policy literature in depth. 

​This module does not have a final exam.​

Teaching methods / timetable

​​You will learn through a combination of lectures, tutorials, discussions, and independent study. 

​Lectures introduce key economic theories, concepts, and contemporary global challenges. Tutorials provide opportunities for discussion, case study analysis, and formative feedback on assessment preparation.

​Learning materials will be provided through My Dundee, the University's virtual learning environment (VLE). These will include readings, journal articles, policy reports, lecture slides, and supplementary online resources. 

​You will also undertake substantial independent reading and research throughout the semester.