This module is not currently running in 2026 to 2027.
Explore the significance of aligning right and wrong with the evolving societal understanding of social issues. By studying socially responsible management you'll learn to embrace reflection as a core skill making sense of societal changes and its deeper meaning for you and your future in business.
You’ll gain a strong understanding of the ethical concerns in business through the study of example cases and key issues such as shareholder activism, employee discrimination, working conditions, ethical issues in marketing such as consumer protection, accountability and collaboration with civil society organisations. You’ll begin to see the importance of a collaborative approach with internal and external stakeholder groups as you apply key concepts, theories and frameworks related to social responsibility in different contexts.
The total study time for this module is 150 hours incorporating online e-learning, work-based experience and private study.
Main assessment methods:
Individual report (2,000 words) (60%)
Individual reflective assignment 1 (1,000 words) (20%)
Individual reflective assignment 2 (1,000 words) (20%)
Reassessment method: 100% coursework
See the library reading list for this module (Medway)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
- analyse the relationship between business and society over time
- understand the key principles of sustainability in business practice and be able to debate the main ethical, economic, social and environmental challenges faced by public, private and not for profit organisations
- compare and contrast different theoretical frameworks and paradigms, and apply to a range of contemporary challenges
- display knowledge of the relationship between ethical and sustainable management and organisational performance, behaviour, reporting and governance
- demonstrate analytical skills needed to develop, implement and assess sustainability frameworks in business practice
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
- demonstrate an ability to manage ethically
- generate solutions and address complex social issues
- communicate effectively to a variety of audiences and/or using a variety of methods.
- present a logical case/argument
- let decision making be informed by analytical developments
University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.