STC5182 - Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability

Year of Study:1 or 2
Credit Units: 3
Duration: 45hours
Prerequisites: Nil
Module Description
Communication professionals are often tasked with leading CSR efforts in organizations and are increasingly expected to develop CSR-related skills. The course provides an overview of corporate social responsibility, its evolution, various theoretical approaches as well as key issues in communicating CSR including the use of online communities. The module does not only focus on firm-level CSR strategy, but also examine the dynamics of relationships between companies and some of their key external stakeholders. Through case studies, class exercises, discussions and scenario building, students will be able to critically assess CSR issues, practices and communication strategies specific to an organization. They will also learn to formulate and deliver effective CSR and sustainability communication.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this module, students should be able to:

  1. demonstrate a solid understanding of various theoretical approaches, concepts and key components of CSR and sustainability;

  2. analyze and critically interpret cases and issues in corporate social responsibility and sustainability by using a multi-stakeholder perspective;

  3. appreciate the importance of and apply appropriate strategies and tactics in CSR programmes; and

  4. critically assess and develop plans for communicating CSR and sustainability.