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Course syllabus - Business Research Methodology and Academic Writing

Scope

7.5 credits

Course code

FOA032

Valid from

Spring semester 2026

Education level

First cycle

Progressive Specialisation

G1F (First cycle, has less than 60 credits in first-cycle course/s as entry requirements)

Main area(s)

Business Administration

Organisation

Department of Business and Mathematics

Ratified

2025-12-18

Literature lists

Course literature is preliminary up to 8 weeks before course start. Course literature can be valid over several semesters.

Objectives

The purpose of the course is to develop students’ understanding of methodological approaches and their practical application within both qualitative and quantitative research. In addition, the course provides an introduction to principles of scientific reporting. Emphasis is placed on methods for collecting, analyzing, presenting, and interpreting data in the field of business administration. The course is designed to equip students with the methodological and analytical skills necessary for conducting independent thesis work at the Bachelor’s level.

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to:

Knowledge and understanding

  1. describe, discuss and apply key concepts and methods for the collection, processing, description and interpretation of data;
  2. understand the practical and theoretical significance of formulating a scientific research question in relation to research design;

    Skills and abilities
  3. act ethically and responsibly in the collection and processing of data;
  4. conduct basic assessments of research quality;

    Evaluation ability and approach
  5. critically evaluate and review information from various types of sources;
  6. independently report and present results from completed empirical studies.

Course content

The course provides a foundational understanding of scientific methodological principles and issues within business administration, with an emphasis on the collection, processing, and presentation of data. The course provides an in-depth exploration of practical research methodologies through both literature review and the application of methodological techniques in practice.

Specific requirements

Business Administration 22,5 credits or equivalent

Examination

INL1, Written Assignment, 1.5 credits, grades: Excellent (A), Very Good (B), Good (C), Satisfactory (D), Sufficient (E), Insufficient, resubmission possible (Fx), Insufficient (F).
Refers to learning objectives: 1, 2, 3, 4

INL2, Written Assignment, 3 credits, grades: Excellent (A), Very Good (B), Good (C), Satisfactory (D), Sufficient (E), Insufficient, resubmission possible (Fx), Insufficient (F).
Refers to learning objectives: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

INL3, Written Assignment, 3 credits, grades: Excellent (A), Very Good (B), Good (C), Satisfactory (D), Sufficient (E), Insufficient, resubmission possible (Fx), Insufficient** **F).
Refers to learning objectives: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

A student who has a certificate from MDU regarding disability study support, can request adaptions for the examination. It is the examiner who takes decisions on any adaptions, based on the certificate and other conditions.

Grade

AF-skala

Interim Regulations and Other Regulations

Overlaps with FOA198, 7.5 credits