UGA Bulletin Logo

Corporate Social Responsibility


Course Description

A framework to help managers make decisions regarding the social responsibility of corporations in an ever-changing global economy. Focusing on the idea that the purpose of the firm is not only to make a profit but also to create value for all stakeholders.

Additional Requirements for Graduate Students:
Graduate students' analysis papers (30% of total grade, 2 papers of 15% each) must be 5-6 pages in length (compared to 2-2.5 pages for undergraduates) and at a minimum include a section on a compare and contrast to industry competitors and a section on expected IMPACT on stakeholders of actions taken. Reports should be professionally written and typed, single-spaced using a 12-point font and 1-inch margins, equivalent to a report you would write for a senior manager.


Athena Title

Corp Social Responsibility


Semester Course Offered

Offered fall and spring


Grading System

A - F (Traditional)


Course Objectives

Students will formulate high-impact, “real-world” professional learning opportunities where they can apply management frameworks as consultants for real companies that seek to improve their social responsibility impact. Students will develop innovative thinking, effective communication, and sound decision making, nurturing thoughtful leadership and creating a vibrant hub for business knowledge and application in the field.


Topical Outline

The course will examine the following topics: understanding corporate social responsibility (CSR), including the case for and against CSR, concepts, theories, and stakeholder responsibility; applying CSR to business activities, including those in the marketplace, the workplace, the community, and the ecological environment; and managing CSR, including reporting and auditing, CSR strategy, CSR partnerships, and self-regulation of the firm.


Syllabus