Knowledge Management Curriculum Development: Linking with Real Business Needs

The aim of the article is to present the key assumptions related to the development of a new spe-cialization, Knowledge Management in an Organization in the Economics Programme, at the University of Economics in Katowice (Poland). The fundamental reasons behind the launch of such a specialization, which would equip students with unique skills related to knowledge man-agement and application of various IT (Information Technology) tools, are presented against the background of the knowledge paradigm and demands of the labour market. The theoretical delib-erations concerning knowledge-based organizations were confronted with the results of the re-search conducted among 160 companies operating in the Silesian region in Poland. This area is a potential labour market for numerous graduates of the University of Economics in Katowice. The aim of the research was to diagnose competences (knowledge and experience) of various or-ganizations in knowledge management and IT applications. The research was carried out by means of a standardized interview technique, using a survey questionnaire. The findings were used to define the objectives of the specialization Knowledge Management in an Organization, a future graduate’s profile and his/her main competences. The article presents the teaching cur-riculum and the aims of specific subjects, for Bachelor’s and Master’s degree studies. This paper is addressed to those interested in the development of the specialization at their uni-versities, as well as students, managers and potential employers. The research findings may also prove useful in the development of other specializations, related to knowledge-based economy and information society in broad terms