The aim of this module is to familiarise students with modern international business structures. The module will also examine the importance of corporate governance and the appropriate governance structures in different jurisdictions.

An overview of the historical development of the corporate structure in western commercial law from the early state based trading corporations to the rise of private enterprise units. This will be coupled with an introduction to theoretical frameworks of business structures and their legal regulation An introduction to modern business structures that operate on an international level, including sole trader, registered companies, real estate investment trusts, special purpose entities, joint ventures, franchise arrangements and distribution networks. The legal process of creating different business structures in different jurisdictions. The concept of residency, centre of management, and the determination of corporate citizenship. The historical development of corporate formation in the USA, the role of the Delaware corporation in US interstate commerce, modern formation processes in US corporate law. Corporate frameworks in the European Union in particular the European Company (SE), The evolution of corporate governance structures in the European Union at both State and European level, including aspects of the "Smart Regulation in the European Union" agenda Corporate formation in China as totally foreign owned entities and the role of joint ventures in corporate formation. Governance issues in Europe, the USA and China, the role of shareholders and investors, restrictions on management, the integration of Labour into corporate oversight and development. and the different institutions involved in enforcing corporate governance provisions including the effect of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act in the USA Cross border mergers and acquisitions, including national control over corporate ownership in protected sectors, such as the press, transportation, etc.

On completion of this module a student will be able to: Identify the different types of business structures that operate internationally Discuss how these business structures relate to one another Explain how each type of business structure is created Critically analyse the legal implications of operating in different jurisdictions Identify the key elements of corporate governance Recognise the influences on the evolution of corporate governance in the EU and the USA Relate corporate governance theories to the legal structures underlying different business structures Criticise different theories of corporate governance Critique the current thinking and trends in corporate governance matters

On completion of this module a student will: Understand the social and economic value of different business structures Understand how legal provisions impact on business structures and behaviour. Appreciate the role of corporate governance in modern society

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The module is taught through a series of weekly seminars. Student will be assigned some reading material, and will be expected to conduct independent research, prior to each seminar, where they will be required to discuss the relevant issues. The University of Limerick Graduate Attributes will be developed by: Broadening students' knowledge and proactivity through encouraging independent and directed research Emphasising student's responsibility to organise their time in an efficient manner and to work to specific deadlines Enhancing students' creativity in how they approach independent research. Promoting collaborative research by the students and requiring students to articulate their research findings in a group setting.