Advanced course, 6 ECTS, winter term
The course is offered in the winter term and taught in English.
This masterclass invites students to explore how organizations are directed and controlled - and what role internal auditing can play in creating, protecting, and sustaining value. The course combines conceptual thinking with practical application. It introduces students to internal auditing as an important element of corporate governance while also engaging with broader questions of judgment, relationships, communication, leadership, and change. Students will develop an understanding of the role of internal auditing in organizations, learn key principles of audit planning and execution, and reflect on the practical challenges of working with audited entities, management, and governance bodies. More than a technical subject, this course is designed as an interactive learning journey. Students are encouraged not only to understand the field, but also to form and express their own perspective on it. A special feature of the course is The Gardener of Governance™ Award for the best student essay, supported by the WÜRTH Group.
Useful links and materials:
- Good Governance Academy (2025)
- YouTube Explainer Video (2026), Guardians and The Gardener of Governance™ join forces
- Invitation to Dr Rainer Lenz' Class of 2026
This course may be of interest to students who are curious about:
- corporate governance and the way organizations are directed and controlled
- the evolving role of internal auditing in global organizations
- risk, control, decision-making, and organizational behaviour
- leadership, communication, and governance in practice
- current issues such as integrated assurance, governance failure, and AI in auditing
The course is particularly suited for students who enjoy connecting theory and practice, discussing real-world questions, and developing their own critical perspective.
The course is delivered in six Thursday afternoon sessions and combines teaching input, discussion, case-based learning, and student participation.
Dr. Rainer Lenz is an internationally recognized practitioner, researcher, and thought leader in governance and internal auditing. He coined The Gardener of Governance™ metaphor and concept for internal auditors. The course benefits from his long-standing international experience in finance and internal audit leadership, as well as from his academic and professional engagement in the field.
After registration, course materials are available via Moodle.
For any questions regarding the course, please contact the secretary email.