Integration of Social Topics in Quality Management Curricula

Purpose– The main objective of this paper is to analyze whether and how social topics have been included in Quality Management (QM) programs in higher education. Based on a literature review on the topic, this research also aims to propose how social topics could be included in QM curricula.
Design/methodology/approach– The papers draws on the literature review to propose a model and a methodology to include social topics in QM programs. The model is based on a three-step approach for integrating QM with other areas in the organization which also have an impact on society.
Findings– The model proposes that first QM students should learn the basic approaches and tools in QM. Then, a systems approach should be used to explain how the different interrelated areas and actors of na organization have an impact on society. Finally, students should be able to understand how supply chain management requires internal alignment between all the areas and how decisions related to the supply chain impact not only the internal performance of the organization but also have social impacts.
Originality/value- This is one of the first contributions to study the introduction of social topics in QM in higher education. The main contribution is the proposal of a model to teach and include these issues in a QM university program.

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Quality Management, Social topics, Higher Education, Teaching model