General provisions

The course is given in Master's Programme in Social Analysis of Economy and Organisation.

Entry requirements

Accepted on Master Programme in Social Analysis of Economy and Organisation.

Learning outcomes

The aim of the course is to provide students with an overview of contemporary organisation theory.

After completing the course the students will be expected to:

- have an overview of key themes, concepts and discussions in organisation theory

- understand, explain and in a critical way use core concepts and theories within organisation theory

- carry out critical analysis, using key organisation theory concepts in empirical and theoretical reasoning

- have knowledge of the most frequently used empirical methods used in organisation theory

Content

Modern society is highly organised, and most of our daily lives either play out in organisations or are deeply affected by organising. While organisation theory traces its intellectual roots to economic sociology, it has developed by integrating insights from decision making-, network- and political science theory to become a central theory in modern social science. The course will provide an overview of various strands of organisation theory, insights into current debates, and provide a language that enables a discussion of questions like the distinction between organisation and organising, the role of external and internal forces in shaping organisation and of competition as a relationship between, as well as a managerial principle for, organisations.

Instruction

The course will include lectures, seminars and group exercises. Students participate through individual written assignments and through group discussions.

Assessment

The course is examined by a written assignment that is defended in a group discussion. Grading criteria are presented in the study guide provided at the start of the course.

Grades will be given in accordance with the Swedish grading system. The following grades will be used: VG (pass with distinction), G (pass), and U (fail). Assignments handed in late will not be graded except in special circumstances. In addition, any remaining assignments and supplements must be completed and handed in by the deadline specified in the study guide otherwise the entire course (all assignments included) must be redone the next time the course is given, provided there is space in the course.

Uppsala University takes cheating and plagiarism seriously, and disciplinary action will be taken against any student suspected of being involved in any sort of cheating and/or plagiarism. The disciplinary actions take the form of warnings and limited suspensions.

NOTE: Only completed courses can be included in a degree.