International Strategy in a Global Economy

The world appears to have become more global and digital, and we have witnessed an increased growth in international expansion of companies of all sizes, i.e., MNEs, SMEs and Born global firms (BGs). Managers of these firms are facing opportunities and challenges related to international expansion and it is vital for future leaders and employees to have an understanding of these issues. The focus in the course encompass  firms of all sizes, yet with a particular focus on SMEs and BGs and the particular challenges that need to be addressed by these firms in their internationalization process. It will be used cases throughout the course to illustrate theories and discuss practical problems. 

Some of the topics covered in the course is international strategy, choice of entry modes, the internationalization process, market learning and knowledge transfer, institutional differences, the role of networks for internationalization, international entrepreneurship/born global firm and ethical issues. 

Language of instruction is English. 

Business strategy and Marketing at a bachelor Level 

None

After completing the course, the student should have the following overall learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence: 

Knowledge

The student 

• has an understanding of globalization, globalization forces and how globalization is related to international expansion 
• has Insight and deep understanding of international expansion, including choice of markets,  modes of entry, and tensions between global integration and local adaptation  
• has a particular knowledge about what characterize born global firms/international new ventures and their internationalization process 
• has basic and up-to-date knowledge of research and different dilemmas facing firms competing in international markets  
• has developed their ability to reflect and understand issues facing firms going international
• has an understanding of sustainability and ethical issues facing internationalizing firms 

Skills

The student 

• is capable of analyzing complex and comprehensive internationalization issues for various types of firms 
• can apply theory and critical thinking to real cases and complex business challenges 
• can reflect on opportunities and challenges for firms competing internationally 

General competence 

The student 

• can engage in analytical discussions of internationalization issues 
• can approach international decisions from various perspectives 

A combination of lectures, case discussions and student presentations. Students are expected to take an active role in their own learning experience, actively participate in discussions, and contribute to an open and positive learning environment in class.  

The following coursework requirements must be approved in order for the student to take the exam:

• Coursework 1: Individual reflection note (1 page) of a given theme, or of a guest lecture.
• Coursework 2: Completion of one written assignment (up to 6 pages). The coursework  will be carried out in groups of four students, comprising different nationalities if possible. 
• Coursework 3: Presentation in class, of a research article, book chapter, or business case (approx.  20 to 25 minutes), carried out in groups of four students comprising  comprising different nationalities if possible. 

All required coursework must be completed and approved by the given deadline in order for the student to take the exam. If one or more coursework requirements have not been approved, the student will be given one opportunity to submit an improved version within a given deadline. 

The exam in the course is a supervised exam of 5 hours.

The following aids are permitted: 

• One dictionary (Native language - English/English - native language or English-English).

Grade scale A-F

The exam papers are assessed by one internal and one external examiner.

At least 25% of the exam papers will be assessed by two examiners. The grades awarded for the papers assessed by two examiners form the basis for determining the level for all the exam papers.

Anita E. Tobiassen