Exploring Business Ethics: B.Com Business Ethics vs. BBA Business Ethics

Business ethics plays an important role in the present business environment, as it highlights ethical and moral aspects of operations and decision-making. There are two well-liked undergraduate programmes available to those who would like ethical issues addressed in their business acumen: the Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) in Business Ethics and the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Business Ethics. While BBA offers an integrated and specialised approach from the beginning, B.Com gives a more general basis in commerce, emphasising ethics. Ultimately, both programmes educate graduates for professions that need a thorough comprehension of corporate ethics. The decision is based on personal choices; BBA emphasises managerial views on ethical business practices, whereas B.Com offers flexibility.

Course duration

A Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) in Business Ethics is typically a three-year undergraduate programme. The three-year timeframe is standard for most B.Com programmes. Specialisation courses in business ethics are possible, and students can choose elective courses in related areas.

A Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Business Ethics is also typically a three-year undergraduate programme, with each academic year consisting of two semesters. To enhance real-world skills, BBA programmes often incorporate practical training, internships, or projects.

Curriculum

The curriculum for the Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) programme with a specialisation in Business Ethics is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of commerce while integrating ethical considerations into business practices. The programme offers a broader spectrum of knowledge in commerce, including accounting and economics. While addressing ethical considerations, the curriculum provides a more theoretical understanding of business ethics. The coursework often includes subjects such as:

• Accounting
• Business communication
• Business law
• Finance
• Economics
• Business ethics
• Corporate governance
• Corporate social responsibility

The BBA Business Ethics programme integrates business management principles with a strong focus on ethical practices. The curriculum may delve into case studies, ethical frameworks, and applying ethical principles in real-world business scenarios. The programme focuses more on business administration and incorporates practical elements. The emphasis on management perspectives makes it particularly suitable for those aspiring to leadership roles where ethical decision-making is integral. Students can expect to study core business subjects such as:

• Management principles
• Marketing
• Finance
• Management
• Organisational behaviour
• Business ethics
• Corporate governance
• Sustainability in business

Career prospects

B.Com offers versatility, allowing students to explore various aspects of ethics in commerce. B.Com graduates possess a broad foundation, making them suitable for several roles. Their knowledge extends to risk analysis and auditing, ensuring businesses meet ethical standards. Some roles that open up for them include:

• Compliance officers ensure companies adhere to legal and ethical standards, implementing policies to prevent violations
• Ethics officers are responsible for developing and implementing ethical policies within organisations through ethics training and investigations into ethical violations
• CSR managers focus on developing and managing initiatives that contribute to the social and environmental well-being of the community
• Auditors ensure that financial practices align with ethical standards and play a crucial role in identifying and rectifying discrepancies in financial reporting
• Entrepreneurs can establish businesses with a solid commitment to ethical practices and social responsibility

Both B.Com Business Ethics and BBA Business Ethics offer valuable insights into ethical considerations within the business world. The choice between the two depends on individual career goals and preferences. If a deeper understanding of ethics within commerce is the primary focus, B.Com may be the preferred option. However, a BBA is a more comprehensive choice for those seeking a broader skill set and managerial opportunities with a focus on ethics.

FAQs

Q1.What are the 3 C's of Business Ethics?

A1. The "3 Cs" of business ethics are are:

1. Compliance
2. Contribution
3. Consequences

Q2.What is the role of Business Ethics?

A2. Business ethics are critical to establishing trust, maintaining a positive reputation, and long-term sustainability of organisations. Ethical principles can help businesses develop a stronger relationship with stakeholders, comply with legal requirements, promote better morale among employees, and manage risks more effectively.

Q3. What is Business Ethics in BBA?

A3. Business ethics in a BBA degree refers to the study and application of moral principles and standards to business situations and practices. It is about understanding what is right and wrong in the context of business operations and decision-making.
BBA students learn how to navigate ethical dilemmas, consider the impact of business actions on various stakeholders, and make responsible choices that align with ethical guidelines.

Q4. What are the two types of Business Ethics?

A4. Business ethics can be broadly categorised into: Individual Ethics and Organisational Ethics.

• Individual ethics: The personal moral principles and values that guide a person’s behaviour within an organisation.
• Organisational ethics: The collective values, standards, and practices adopted by a company to govern its decisions and interactions.

Q5. What is the main role of Ethics?

A5. The main role of ethics is to guide individuals in making choices that promote the common good, truthfulness, and fairness. It helps people make decisions that lead to positive outcomes and avoid unjust actions.