Course Descriptions

The following is a brief overview of Managerial English courses currently offered at our department. More detailed information is available from the respective module descriptions.

Undergraduate Courses

English for Management (6 CP)

This introduction to business and managerial English seeks to help beginners build business-specific vocabulary, unlearn typical German mistakes in English and become more confident in handling routine business encounters, such as professional telephone calls and e-mails. It also introduces students to current issues in management and serves to review the essentials of English grammar. Grading is based on an in-class presentation (40%) and a final written examination (60%).

Oral Communication (6 CP)

This higher-level course enables students to become more effective oral communicators in various management settings. Participants will give business presentations and take part in simulated job interviews to build essential rhetorical skills and improve their techniques of delivery. Grading is based on a mock job interview (50%) and a portfolio of written assignments (50%).

Written Communication (6 CP)

This higher-level course enables students to become more effective business writers. Participants will have an opportunity to apply the principles of producing correct, clear and audience-focussed management texts in the course of numerous writing and proof-reading assignments. These will include general business correspondence, memos, CVs/résumés and cover letters. Grading is based on an in-class presentation (25%), a portfolio of written assignments (50%) and a final written examination (25%).

Working Across Cultures (6 CP)

This advanced course enables students to become more effective intercultural communicators. Participants will study essential models of cross-cultural differences and learn how to apply them in diverse business and management settings. Case studies, simulations and team projects will help students increase their awareness of cultural diversity and become more adept at identifying and minimizing potential sources of intercultural miscommunication. Grading is based on an in-class presentation (40%) and a portfolio of written assignments (60%).

Graduate Courses

Business Ethics (6 CP, winter semesters only)

This seminar is targeted at advanced students who have an interest in learning about the ethical dimensions of business decisions. Using classic case studies, various moral dilemmas and extensive reading assignments, the course will challenge students to develop a more critical and thoughtful perspective on corporate and managerial decision-making. Participants will also practice how to use central ethical principles and analytical techniques in business decisions. Grading is based on an in-class presentation (40%) and a final examination (60%).

Rhetoric for Managers (6 CP, summer semesters only)

Given that a manager’s job is rhetorical by nature, this advanced seminar focuses on enhancing participants’ rhetorical competence. The course first reviews the central concepts and principles of rhetoric and persuasion, and then encourages students to apply them in business contexts. Various simulations, debates and public-speaking exercises will help students learn how to speak clearly and eloquently on a given topic, give persuasive speeches and argue more effectively. Grading is based on an in-class speech (50%) and a final paper (50%).