Alliances, Mergers and Networks

URL study guide

https://studiegids.vu.nl/en/courses/2024-2025/E_BA_AMN

Course Objective

After successful completion of the course, students: Academic and Research Skills:
• Develop an ability to identify and review relevant alliance, merger, and network literatures, use analytical skills in building conceptual models, and synthesize knowledge to conceptualize models and resolve managerial challenges. Knowledge of Theory + Methods and Solving Complex Problems:
• Possess a theoretical understanding of some of the most significant challenges inherently connected to strategic alliances, mergers and acquisitions, and networks.
• Are able to design, execute, and report on an empirical research project, asking students to present an AMN case challenge, present academic-based solutions, organize professional feedback, and to develop meaningful (out-of-the-box) solutions. Professional Social Skills:
• Are able to communicate their views with respect to AMN perspectives and approaches, both verbally and through written reports (individual and team-based). Self-Reflective Professional:
• Have reflected upon themselves with regard to taking responsibility for their own actions and his/her personal development.
• Have reflected upon their ability to enact critical thinking, creative thinking, and independent thinking.

Course Content

The 'Alliances, Mergers, & Networks' familiarizes students with some of the most significant challenges companies have to overcome in order to successfully manage their strategic alliances, mergers and acquisitions, and networks. The course encourages an even-handed appreciation of various theoretical perspectives addressing tensions and opportunities inherently connected to business-to-business relationships. In addition, students are challenged to ‘translate’ academic know-what into managerially relevant know-how. In particular, after following the course students have an advanced understanding of (1) the formation, management, and performance of strategic alliances, (2) the forging, integration, and performance of mergers and acquisitions, and (3) the embeddedness of these relationships in broader networks of interfirm ties. The purpose of the course is not only to introduce the students to some of the most fundamental issues in research on alliances, mergers and acquisitions, and networks but also to (4) allow students to apply the gained knowledge to real-life business situations. In doing, so they will be stimulated to enhance (5) individual professional and team collaboration skills.

Teaching Methods

LecturesInstruction lecturesTutorials

Method of Assessment

Individual examGroup assignmentParticipation assignment

Literature

Tjemkes, Vos, and Burgers (2023), 3rd edition, Strategic Alliance Management. Routledge.Additional (required) materials are included in the course manual.

Target Audience

The AMN course is open to students participating in one of the business administration Master programs. If in doubt, please contact the course coordinator.

Entry Requirements

N/A