HCM: Labor Relations for a Changing Worl

In this elective course, students will examine the theory and practice of labor relations as context for exploring new and emerging unionization trends. It is intended to provide students with competencies to understand why workers seek union representation, understand the legal and regulatory framework surrounding labor relations, and develop critical thinking skills to address changing expectations around DEIA, business ethics, and generational pressures. Grounded in a review of the labor movement’s historical underpinnings in the U.S. and globally (ex. China, Japan, Korea, EU, Great Britain), the course will provide a comprehensive examination of labor relations topics ranging from union organizing, collective bargaining and contract administration, to incipient issues such as unionization in new industries and work groups, the impact of shareholder and customer pressures, and potential contradictions between a company’s stated ethical principles and its day-to-day labor relations decisions.

The course is designed for current or aspiring HCM and other professionals seeking to develop their capabilities to provide strategic labor relations guidance within their organizations. The objective is to impart a sophisticated understanding of why workers unionize, examine effective management responses to unionization, and master the legal and ethical framework in which these activities take place. Students will acquire skills to address existing and emerging labor relations issues facing organizations, competencies in foundational legal and compliance issues, and the ability to address strategic and practical challenges that impact the labor-management relationship. There are no prerequisites for this course.