The Department of Management offers a curriculum that ascribes to Critical Management Studies. As defined by the Academy of Management:
“Critical Management Studies is characterized by skepticism concerning the morality and social and ecological sustainability of prevailing forms of organization. (We promote) management research and education which is dedicated to interrogating relations of power and control and giving voice to marginal and oppressed voices.”
To that end, the Department of Management seeks to provide opportunities for students to study and analyze business, organizations, and management in ways that allow for recognition of the link among power and knowledge, the questioning of the status quo and structures that dominate society, a focus on both instrumental and value rationality, and an appreciation of industrial democracy. The following are examples of activities students undertake in the curriculum:
- Discuss business and organizational issues from both the organization shareholders’ and stakeholders’ perspectives.
- Present an analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of organizations (e.g., organizational structures, power relations, missions, and responsibilities).
- Identify ways to incorporate sustainability initiatives and responsible leadership into business strategies.
- Present an analysis of how the actions of the organization have benefited, and negatively affected, stakeholders.
- Uncover the assumptions and reasons behind the organization’s motives and actions.
- Discuss the areas of change necessary for the organization to better understand and accommodate the needs of their stakeholders.