Sustainable finance and investment

In response to the global shift toward more sustainable business and finance practices, this unit is designed to empower students in crafting investment processes, products, and strategies that yield financial returns and contribute to positive societal impact. Business students will gain comprehensive knowledge and skills to assess and manage environmental and social considerations, including climate change, diversity and inclusion, and board structure. The curriculum seamlessly integrates finance theory, ethical principles, industry practices, and current trends, employing case studies, data analysis, and academic research methodologies. Through the lens of critical thinking and systems thinking, you will learn to develop and assess the efficacy and sustainability of business goals, ESG ratings, regulatory proposals, and investor actions. The course also incorporates reflective practices, encouraging students to articulate their insights through case studies and collaborative teamwork. Furthermore, you will have unique opportunities for direct engagement with industry professionals, facilitating applying acquired skills in real-world contexts. This holistic approach positions you to meet the demands of a changing business landscape, where the ability to drive positive change is as crucial as financial acumen.

Case-based teaching - This unit includes case-based teaching, where you apply your knowledge and engage in analytical and reflective thinking to solve complex contextual scenarios. Activities are often designed so that there is not one clear answer, but you need to work together to examine, analyse and make decisions to resolve the situation.

Active learning - This unit engages you in actively applying your knowledge, skills and attributes in interactive, collaborative and reflective activities.

Industry-based learning - This unit provides you with the opportunity to engage in industry-based learning to incorporate professional and industry experience into your studies.

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities. You are expected to complete all pre-class activities prior to your scheduled class, and post-class activities should be completed after your scheduled class. Learning activities may include a combination of teacher directed, peer directed and online engagement activities.