Study Abroad Graduate Programs
Corporate Social Impacts: Comparing U.K. and U.S. Corporate Policies and Practices
Course Dates: May 18 - July 21, 2008
Dates Overseas: June 21 - June 29, 2008

The Program
Investigate corporate policies and practices of social impact in the UK and United States. Although both countries share a common pluralist heritage, they have over time adopted different norms and beliefs affecting how governments, businesses, and civil society interact. A cluster of initiatives in the private, public and non-profit sectors has led to a convergence of corporate social responsibility (CSR) expertise in the UK, while many US firms have a checkered past regarding CSR. A close comparison of U.S. and UK CSR policies and practices suggest vastly different levels of engagement, interest, and activity in all three sectors. This class explores the similarities, differences, and consequences of corporate social impacts by focusing on three controversial industries: tobacco, alcohol, and petrochemicals.

This course expands existing conceptual frameworks by integrating three perspectives: (1) corporate strategy, (2) international globalization and civil society, and (3) corporate social responsibility.

Courses
SMPP 297 (6 credits)

Faculty
Jennifer J. Griffin, associate professor strategic management and public policy