BUS 367 - Social Innovation in Scandinavia

Experiential Learning (EXP): Yes
Credits: 4

Prerequisite: instructor consent. An introduction to the business, history, and culture behind the sustainability initiative in Scandinavia. It takes a theoretical and practical look at why and how social innovation has flourished in Scandinavia. The class lectures and case studies on design thinking, local history and culture, and social entrepreneurship are complemented with visits with area start-ups and entrepreneurs. While the DIS facility in Stockholm is the central location for the class, students also spend time traveling throughout Sweden and Denmark in order to meet with representatives from socially minded businesses and entrepreneurs, as well as from government agencies that are focused on the broad notion of sustainability. The course examines various approaches to tackling such pressing problems as climate change, immigration, and economic and gender equality. The first three weeks of the term are spent abroad, with the final week back on campus.