Course content

This is a orientation course for the engineering master's programs at NTNU within the management field that give the students an opportunity to recognize important issues within the establishment, development and operation of technology-based businesses and organisations.

Central theme:

• Organizational theory: Division of work and coordination, motivation, teamwork, the "Norwegian model" for cooperation between the parties in working life.
• Entrepreneurship: Short-term and long-term aspects of the start-up and development of enterprises, as well as financing of start-ups.
• Corporate finance: Analysis of accounts, investments and economic market conditions.

Challenges and opportunities related to sustainability will be a central aspect in all parts of the subject.

Learning outcome

The subject is a mandatory area subject for all engineering master students, and will preferably be in the 3rd year. It can also be taken by other students who want an introduction to the management of technological companies. The subject is linked to the generic area of management.

Knowledge the subject should provide:

• A broad knowledge of central themes and theories that are relevant within the subject area of management.
• Within the selected topics, the student must know relevant research and development issues, and in particular those that are expected to be useful in the first years of the their career.
• Through good references in the curriculum literature, the student should be able to use the literature actively and update his knowledge within the subject area.

Skills the subject must provide:

• Through the group assignments, the students will learn how to find, evaluate and refer to information and subject matter that is relevant to current practical and theoretical issues within the management area.
• In the same assignments, the students will learn to apply their professional knowledge to make reasoned choices about methods and solutions.
• Through calculation exercises and a financial simulator, the students will train in mastering techniques and tools to assess the company's financial situation.

Other Skills:

• Through the group assignments, the students will learn how to convey academic points of view in written reports.
• The assignments are done in groups to train the students' skills in exchanging views and experiences with other professionals with a similar background.

Learning methods and activities

Weekly lecture. Lessons linked to exercises in the subject.

Compulsory assignments

• Excercises attached to the syllabus

Recommended previous knowledge

Basic mathematics and mathematical statistics knowledge equivalent to the basic courses given to engineering students at NTNU during their first two years.

Course materials

Provided at the start of the study.

Credit reductions