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Gilbert Probst, Lea Stadtler, Bruce Jenks, Stephan Mergenthaler, Julian Fleet, Cassandra Quintanilla, Claudia Gonzalez Romo, and Sebastian Buckup

This course provides an introduction to International Organizations and the United Nations, and explores how business and management tools can be applied in these settings to achieve better, more effective results. With a focus on cross-sector partnerships in a changing world, the course offers you insights into the inner workings of international organizations and the challenges they face today. It will introduce you to effective, state-of-the art management tools and principles to help you lead change in this world – taught by senior staff of international organizations themselves.

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This course provides an introduction to International Organizations and the United Nations, and explores how business and management tools can be applied in these settings to achieve better, more effective results. With a focus on cross-sector partnerships in a changing world, the course offers you insights into the inner workings of international organizations and the challenges they face today. It will introduce you to effective, state-of-the art management tools and principles to help you lead change in this world – taught by senior staff of international organizations themselves.

This is an introductory course offered by the International Organizations MBA (IO-MBA) of the University of Geneva, an executive program for change-makers in international organizations, NGOs and social ventures.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Welcome to the Course
Welcome to this course on International Organizations Management. Over the next five weeks, we will explore the inner workings of International Organizations and the United Nations and learn how business and management tools can be applied in these settings. The course is structured into five modules, each with a focus on a different aspect of international organizations, and includes lectures, discussions and readings to dive deeper into particular topics. To qualify for a course certificate, you must complete and score above 80% on all five of the end of module quizzes. See more details in the course syllabus below, then let's get started with Week 1!
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Tailored for decision makers and change-makers in international organizations and social ventures
Strong reputation of United Nations and Geneva University in international organization management
Builds a solid foundation for beginners in international organizations and cross-sector partnership
Examines contemporary and emerging issues, like anti-trade sentiments, climate change, and cyber-security
Teaches practical marketing and fundraising strategies for international organizations
Requires learners to have a basic understanding of international relations and the UN system

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Reviews summary

Intro to international organizations management

According to the course description and structure, learners might find this course provides an introduction to International Organizations and the UN, focusing on how business and management tools can be applied in these settings. Taught by senior staff of international organizations, the course covers topics such as leadership in the UN system, Public Private Partnerships (PPPs), and marketing & fundraising for IOs. It is positioned as an introductory course from an executive program, suggesting it is geared towards professionals and change-makers in the sector. Assessment relies on quizzes for certification.
Certification requires end-of-module quizzes.
"To qualify for a course certificate, you must complete and score above 80% on all five of the end of module quizzes."
"Assessment method relies solely on quizzes for the certificate."
"Learners should be prepared for quiz-based evaluation."
Provides a foundational overview.
"The course description indicates it provides an introduction to International Organizations and the United Nations."
"This is described as an introductory course offered by the International Organizations MBA (IO-MBA)."
"Week 1 covers an overview of historical context and classifying international organizations."
Highlights areas like PPPs and leadership.
"Module 3 explores the concept and practice of leadership in the UN."
"Module 4 covers Public Private Partnerships as an innovative model for collaboration."
"Module 5 blends theoretical principles with marketing and fundraising in international organizations."
Taught by experienced IO staff.
"Taught by senior staff of international organizations themselves."
"This suggests insights into the inner workings of international organizations."
"Content is likely informed by real-world experience in the sector."
Applicable to IO/NGO/social venture careers.
"Explores how business and management tools can be applied in International Organizations settings."
"Geared towards 'change-makers in international organizations, NGOs and social ventures'."
"Focuses on cross-sector partnerships in a changing world."
"Introduces management tools and principles to help 'lead change in this world'."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in International Organizations Management with these activities:
Review key concepts and theories in international relations
Strengthen your understanding of the fundamental principles and theories in international relations.
Show steps
  • Identify key concepts and theories
  • Review textbooks, articles, and other resources
  • Attend online lectures or workshops
  • Discuss concepts with colleagues or classmates
  • Complete practice questions or exercises
Read and review "The UN in the 21st Century" by Ramesh Thakur
Gain insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the UN in the 21st century, deepening your understanding of the organization and its role in global affairs.
Show steps
  • Read the book and take notes
  • Identify key arguments and perspectives
  • Write a book review summarizing and evaluating the book's content
  • Discuss the book with colleagues or classmates
  • Apply learning to your work or research
Follow online tutorials on using data analysis tools for international organizations
Enhance your data analysis skills by following online tutorials on using tools commonly used in international organizations.
Show steps
  • Identify relevant data analysis tools
  • Locate and enroll in online tutorials
  • Follow tutorials and complete exercises
  • Apply newly acquired skills to real-world data sets
  • Share your learning with colleagues
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Develop a proposal for a cross-sector partnership between an international organization and a private sector company
Apply your knowledge of public-private partnerships to create a proposal for a cross-sector partnership that addresses a specific global challenge.
Show steps
  • Identify a global challenge and potential partners
  • Develop a partnership proposal outline
  • Research and gather data
  • Write the partnership proposal
  • Present the proposal to stakeholders
Practice negotiating and conflict resolution skills through role-playing exercises
Develop your negotiation and conflict resolution skills through practical exercises, enhancing your effectiveness in international organizations.
Show steps
  • Identify common negotiation and conflict scenarios
  • Develop role-playing exercises
  • Practice role-playing exercises with colleagues
  • Reflect on and evaluate negotiation and conflict resolution strategies
  • Apply learning to real-world situations
Develop a comprehensive marketing plan for an international organization
Develop and implement a comprehensive marketing plan for an international organization, using the knowledge and skills acquired in this course.
Show steps
  • Analyze the target audience and market
  • Define marketing objectives
  • Develop marketing strategies and tactics
  • Create marketing materials and content
  • Implement and track marketing campaign
Identify and connect with senior professionals in the field of international organizations
Seek guidance and advice from experienced professionals to enhance your understanding and career development in international organizations.
Show steps
  • Identify potential mentors
  • Reach out and introduce yourself
  • Schedule regular meetings or calls
  • Seek guidance on career development
  • Stay connected and maintain relationships
Mentor junior staff or students interested in international organizations
Share your knowledge and experience with junior staff or students interested in international organizations, helping them develop their skills and understanding.
Show steps
  • Identify potential mentees
  • Establish clear goals and expectations
  • Provide guidance and support on a regular basis
  • Create opportunities for mentees to learn and grow
  • Evaluate progress and make adjustments as needed

Career center

Learners who complete International Organizations Management will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Sustainable Development Manager
A Sustainable Development Manager develops and implements strategies to promote sustainable development. They work with businesses, governments, and communities to find ways to reduce environmental impact and promote social and economic progress. One of the modules in this course covers public private partnerships, which are increasingly important for achieving sustainable development goals. By taking this course, you will build a foundation in the areas that are most relevant to the work of a(n) Sustainable Development Manager.
Project Manager
A Project Manager plans, organizes, and executes projects. They work to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and according to specifications. This course covers topics such as leadership and public private partnerships. These are very helpful topics for a(n) Project Manager to have a foundation in. Taking this course will help you prepare for this career path.
International Trade Specialist
An International Trade Specialist helps businesses import and export goods and services. They also advise businesses on international trade regulations. One of the modules in this course covers the shifting context for international organizations. As an International Trade Specialist, it will be important for you to be aware of the full range of challenges that International Organizations face.
Chief Executive Officer
A Chief Executive Officer is the highest-ranking executive in a company or organization. They are responsible for the overall success of the organization, and they make decisions that affect all aspects of its operations. As a(n) Chief Executive Officer, you must be well-versed in the operations of international organizations and the challenges that they face. This course can help you build a foundation in these areas.
Nonprofit Manager
A Nonprofit Manager plans, organizes, and directs the activities of a nonprofit organization. They are responsible for the organization's overall success, and they work to ensure that it is fulfilling its mission. This course covers marketing and fundraising, which are two vital skills for a(n) Nonprofit Manager to have. By taking this course, you will be better prepared for your career in this sector.
Public Administrator
A Public Administrator works in the public sector to implement and manage government programs and policies. They also work to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of government operations. One of the modules in this course focuses on public private partnerships, which are an important and growing part of public administration. Learning about this topic will help you in your career as a(n) Public Administrator.
International Relations Manager
An International Relations Manager develops and maintains relationships with foreign governments, businesses, and organizations. They also represent their organization's interests in international forums. The course covers topics such as international relations and the shifting context for international organizations. Having this knowledge is very useful for an International Relations Manager.
Executive Director
An Executive Director is the head of an organization, and they are responsible for its overall success. They establish the organization's vision and mission, and they lead the team in achieving its goals. As a(n) Executive Director, you must be well-versed in the operations of international organizations. This course can help you build a foundation in this regard.
United Nations Officer
A(n) United Nations Officer works for the United Nations, which is a global organization that promotes peace, security, and sustainable development. Their work focuses on a variety of areas, including political affairs, peacekeeping, human rights, and economic and social development. This course provides an overview of the United Nations which will be useful as you begin your career with the organization.
Humanitarian Aid Worker
A Humanitarian Aid Worker offers support and assistance to individuals and communities who have been impacted by crises or natural catastrophes. They also work to strengthen communities' resilience to future crises. This course offers you insights into the world of international organizations and the challenges they face today, which will be valuable as you begin your career in the humanitarian sector.
International Development Manager
An International Development Manager implements and manages development programs in nations all over the world. They address social and economic concerns like poverty, inequality, and environmental sustainability. This course can be very helpful for you, as it offers you insights into the world of international organizations and the challenges they face today.
Policy Analyst
A Policy Analyst examines and evaluates public policies to gauge their effectiveness and impact. They frequently suggest modifications or new policies. This course will help you build a foundation in international relations, the UN system, and other topics which can help you get started on a path to a career as a(n) Policy Analyst.
Management Consultant
For organizations in both the public and private sector, Management Consultants provide expert guidance on improving performance. They study how an organization's processes and systems work and offer advice on how to enhance effectiveness. This course, which offers practical management tools and principles, may help you develop some of the skills you will need to become a(n) Management Consultant.
Fundraising Manager
A fundraising manager devises and implements strategies to generate financial support for an organization. Non-profits, charities, and educational institutions often hire fundraising managers. This course may be useful to you because one of its modules is on marketing and fundraising, which will help you build a foundation in the essential skills for success.
International Organization Administrator
A specialist in administrative tasks, a(n) International Organization Administrator contributes to an organization's smooth operation through their work in a number of different areas of administration. There is a need to be aware of the challenges that International Organizations face, as well as the wider role that they play in the modern world. This course, which covers both of these topics, may be useful on your path to becoming an International Organization Administrator.

Reading list

We've selected 11 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in International Organizations Management .
A comprehensive reference work that covers the history, theory, and practice of international organizations, with contributions from leading scholars in the field.
This comprehensive handbook provides an overview of the history, theory, and practice of international organizations. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the role of international organizations in global governance.
This concise introduction to the United Nations provides a clear and accessible overview of the organization's history, structure, and activities. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the UN.
Provides practical guidance on how to develop and manage public-private partnerships for sustainable development, with a focus on the role of international organizations.
Provides a comprehensive overview of international law. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the legal framework that governs international relations.
Explores the future of international organizations in a changing global order. It raises important questions about the role of international organizations in addressing global challenges.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the role of international organizations in global governance, covering topics such as their history, evolution, and future prospects.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the globalization of world politics. It covers a wide range of topics, including the economic, political, and social dimensions of globalization.
Examines the ethical dimensions of international relations. It explores the responsibilities of states and individuals in the international system.
This practical guide to fundraising for nonprofit organizations provides a step-by-step overview of the fundraising process. It valuable resource for anyone involved in fundraising for nonprofit organizations.

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