IIMs offering Happiness courses
As already mentioned, leading Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) are incorporating happiness-focused courses into their curricula. Here is a look at them.
- IIM Ranchi: It offers an integrated the “Science of Happiness” course in its Integrated Program (BBA-MBA) in Management. The course carries 1.5 credits in Term 4.
IIM Ahmedabad , It has introduced electives on happiness, emotional stability and health economics among other courses.
- IIM Bangalore: It offers a course on “Crafting Realities: Work, Happiness, and Meaning”, led by Prof. Ramya Ranganathan, which empowers candidates to reshape their work experience for greater fulfillment. Combining insights from positive psychology, neuroscience, sociology, and philosophy, the course offers lectures and experiential exercises to help professionals reimagine their approach to work and enhance career satisfaction. This course spans 6 weeks and requires students to dedicate 4-5 hours per week.
Besides these IIMs, several courses on Happiness are also offered by IIM Jammu and Amritsar.
Global universities offering Happiness courses
Introducing happiness in the curriculum is a global trend now. Top-ranked universities are integrating the study of happiness into their syllabus through specialized courses. Check out these courses offered by premium global institutes.
- The London School of Economics (LSE): It offers a comprehensive course on happiness. This course is part of MSc programs in Behavioral Science, Environmental Policy, Technology, and Health (LSE and Peking University), Organizational and Social Psychology, Psychology of Economic Life, and others. It is compulsory for the Wellbeing Specialism in Behavioral Science and available as an elective for certain other programs. The course explores the science of happiness, focusing on its application in government, business, and NGOs. Key topics include the definition, evaluation, and experience of happiness, attention, adaptation, relative comparisons, happiness across societies, and the latest research. It also covers potential downsides and future trends in happiness studies.
Harvard University , A comprehensive course offered by Harvard University, named ‘Managing Happiness’ provides insights into modern well-being science and practical methods to enhance student happiness. HarvardX, the online platform designed to offer digital courses, comprises an introductory course in Managing Happiness, open to all learners without prerequisites. This self-paced course is taught in English, and video transcripts are available in multiple languages, including Arabic, Spanish, French, Hindi, and more. The course spans 6 weeks, 2-3 hours per week.
- The University of California, Berkeley: It offers an extensive, free online course named The Science of Happiness. This popular eight-week program delves into the science behind a happy and meaningful life, combining the latest research with practical exercises. Participants can complete the material at their own pace within six months.
Happiness lessons for MBA students: The why of it
Studies show that happier employees are more engaged, creative, and efficient, resulting in improved business outcomes. Recognizing this, many MBA programs in prestigious IIMs have integrated happiness courses into their curriculum. Let’s take a look at the benefits of happiness lessons for MBA students.
Happiness boosts productivity: Happiness plays a vital role in enhancing productivity. Research consistently shows that when individuals are happier, they are more engaged, energized, and effective in their work. Research conducted by Oxford University has underlined the critical connection between happiness and productivity in the workplace. The research, spanning six months and led by Jan-Emmanuel De Neve from Oxford, George Ward from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and Clement Bellet from Erasmus University Rotterdam, highlighted that productivity levels are significantly linked with the happiness of the employees. The findings indicate that happy workers are more efficient during their working hours, although they do not necessarily work longer hours.
For MBA students, understanding the science of happiness can lead to better workplace performance, as happier employees tend to be more innovative and make faster decisions. Teaching happiness helps future leaders recognize how creating a positive work environment boosts team productivity, leading to higher output and improved business outcomes. By incorporating happiness into their leadership approach, MBA students can foster a thriving, productive workplace culture.
Happy leaders can build efficient teams: MBA programs integrate happiness courses to help future leaders develop emotional intelligencewhich is essential for resolving workplace conflicts. Leaders who approach challenges with positivity and empathy are more likely to foster collaboration and innovation. These skills not only reduce friction among team members but also contribute to a more harmonious and efficient work environment. MBA students who master these concepts can lead teams that are more resilient and motivated, ultimately enhancing productivity across the organization.
Happiness strengthens interpersonal relationships at the workplace: Interpersonal skills are critical for creating a cohesive and productive workplace. Happiness courses in MBA programs emphasize the importance of empathy, active listening, and constructive communication in building strong professional relationships. A leader who cultivates positive interpersonal interactions can inspire effective teamwork and reduce workplace stress, leading to higher efficiency. By focusing on interpersonal dynamics, future leaders can create a more connected and motivated workforce.
Higher the job satisfaction, lower the attrition rates: Job satisfaction is directly linked to employee retention and productivity. High attrition rates are often the result of low job satisfaction among employees. Happiness courses in MBA curricula address this issue by imparting lessons to future leaders on how to create environments where employees find purpose and fulfillment in their roles. When employees are satisfied, they are less likely to leave, reducing turnover costs and maintaining productivity.
