Registration for CNS courses takes place directly in Sisu, Main page -> Search -> Cross-institutional courses -> Cross-institutional network -> CNS (University Network Studies of Co-operative and Social Economy, Co-op Network Studies). In case of problems, contact your own study office.

Cooperatives and Sustainable Development  (5 cr) 
12.1. - 1.3.2026
course code: CNS-P5b
Register on Sisu, Cross-institutional courses, at the latest Sun 11th January

The course starts by exploring the sustainable development goals and the process that has led to their declaration. The course continues with an examination of the relationship between sustainable development and different types of cooperatives. Particular attention is paid to three types of cooperatives: large cooperatives in the developed countries, producer and credit cooperatives in the developing world, and new cooperatives created with the SDGs in mind.

Upon completion of the course, students will be familiar with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and their historical origins. The students will also understand the controversial nature of corporate social responsibility and the relation of cooperative enterprises to it. Additionally, the students will be able to analyze the implementation of the SDGs, their impact, and their links to the business of different kinds of cooperatives.

Lecturer: University Researcher Taneli Vaskelainen.

More information and the CNS study guide with information about the rest of the courses for the spring semester 2026