Table of contents

The course is connected to the following study programs

Teaching language

English/ Norwegian

Recommended previous knowledge

Mandatory subjects in the 1st and 2nd year of the bachelor programs in Marketing and Management or Economics and Administration.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course, the students should:

• have knowledge about crowdfunding principles, types, and models, and exhibit ability to discuss the differences between them.

• have knowledge about principles, types, and characteristics of different blockchain applications in finance.

• understand the role of context, industry, national, and international issues in crowdfunding, microfinance, and blockchain finance practice.

• be able to identify and characterize key actors in alternative finance markets, including platforms, types, functionalities, and business models.

• understand ethical dilemmas in alternative finance practice and possible mechanisms for mitigating them.

Contents

The course introduces students to the dynamic sector of alternative finance, covering topics such as crowdfunding, cryptocurrencies, and microfinance. It familiarizes participants with core concepts, theory, models, and value propositions of the different forms of alternative finance and critically addresses both the opportunities and challenges posed by them.

Teaching and learning methods

Lectures and group exercises. The estimated workload is about 200 hours.

Examination requirements

Approved oral presentation. More information will be given in Canvas.

Examinations

The exam is divided in two parts:

• Group delivery of project presentation file (40%)

• Written group project paper (60%)

Assessment expression: letter grade, A-F. More information will be given in Canvas.

Student evaluation

The person responsible for the course, in consultation with the student representative, decides the method of evaluation and whether the courses will have a midterm- or end of term evaluation, see also the Quality System, section 4.1. Information about evaluation method for the course will be posted on Canvas.
Last updated from FS (Felles studentsystem) Oct. 15, 2026 8:06:26 AM