To apply economic theories and empirical evidence to the analysis of economic problems and policy issues, as well as illustrating their relevance for, and applicability to business. The module provides a comprehensive set of economic tools to analyse the nature, scope and functioning of the economy so as to develop an understanding of the changing set of problems that business decision-makers face, and the economic context in which businesses operate. The module provides an examination of the efficiency of markets, consumer choice theory and pricing strategies of firms. Other key components of the module relate to the macroeconomic context, national economic indicators, the financial and monetary systems as they influence trade and business investment decisions. Sustainability economics and policy implementation is explored with concepts applied to the level of the firm. The context of Government policy, market failure, public goods, subsidies and taxation tools are introduced and explore the application of economic instruments that can promote business engagement in pursuing environmentally sustainable development pathways. Globalization trends, the structure of the labour market and productivity considerations encountered by both the small-firm sector and multinationals are examined. Throughout the module, the business relevance of economic models and theories are reinforced.

Module topics provide students with an economic framework and constructs to understand and analyse key economic events confronting businesses and government. 1) Economics, Business objectives and the Business Environment 2) Consumer Choice and Behaviour in the Marketplace 3) Production Costs, Revenues and Output decisions of the Firm 4) Profit maximisation, Competitiveness and Growth strategies for the Firm 5) Resource Allocation - Labour Markets/Wages, the employment of Capital and Productivity 6) Interventions in Markets and Market Failure 7) Relationship between Government and business - Fiscal Policy Measures 8) The Macroeconomy and Business Cycles - Inflation, GNP, Balance of Payments and Employment 9) The Macroeconomic environment and business activity - Money, Banking, Interest Rates and Exchange Rates 10) International Trade - Globalization - Supply Chains 11) Sustainability Economics and Policy Implementation 12) Sustainable Business Practices and Environmental Performance 13) Key International Economic Policies - Firms operating in the Irish and global economy.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: 1) Differentiate relevant pricing and market strategies for a range of market structures and in the presence of market failure 2) Analyse business decision-making under conditions of uncertainty by applying economic models and theory 3) Critique the key economic principles underpinning environmental policies and economic outcomes for business 4) Critically appraise how business decision-making and success can be affected by international trade developments and globalization 5) Evaluate how supply-side policies can impact business productivity, competitiveness and employment of environmentally sustainable business practices.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: 1) Question business practices using a mastery of economic concepts and techniques

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: N/A

The module will be delivered using weekly lectures, class discussion groups, specified readings and additional online learning activities and resources. Throughout the module, students will be provided with the requisite knowledge and skills to apply economic theory to the real world of business and the economy. Student learning experiences will be gauged through the use of research-led coursework, class discussion, engagement with applied learning activities, as well as feedback. A range of tailored supports will be available on the VLE. The module's learning environment will align with UL's Integrated Curriculum Development Framework to facilitate a positive, coherent and inclusive learning journey for all students. Teaching is designed around real-world business challenges drawing on case examples and present-day economic events. Class guidelines would be in line with that of UL's Academic Integrity Unit. Digital technologies used would be supported by resources within the university. The lecture sessions will foster active, student-centered learning suited to the interdisciplinary and international profile of a postgraduate cohort. Each session will be split into two parts: delivery of core syllabus content (economic theory, concepts, and examples), followed by interactive activities that apply course material. Guided learning will be integrated through group work, breakout problem-solving exercises, and class debates. Applied and experiential learning will be supported using business case studies, real-world published data, and economic models to evaluate policies, market behaviour, and business decisions. Activities such as drafting arguments and engaging in debates on topics like pricing, minimum wages, and sustainability will embed inclusivity, a global perspective and build core analytical and communication skills relevant to coursework. Teaching and student learning activities are research-based, research-oriented and support both collaboration and self-directed learning. A mix of formative (e.g., group tasks, draft submissions, debates) and summative (e.g. presentations, reports, exams) assessments will test both theoretical and applied understanding. The interactive lecture format, suited to the typical class size and module content, removes the need for separate tutorials. Additional support will be provided through monitored online discussion boards, ePortfolios (Brightspace), drop-in sessions (Teams), and in-person office hours for individual guidance. The UL Graduate Attributes will be developed by broadening students' responsibility to effectively communicate sustainability concepts and to apply ethical practices as part of group activities and module coursework. Through engagement in discussion groups, students' will be prompted and supported to be curious and articulate in the subject matter, be agile in their learning and collaborate with peers.