Digitalisation and Innovation (MBA)

Program overview

This English‑taught MBA in Digitalisation and Innovation is designed for graduates who already hold a bachelor’s degree and have gained some professional experience, and who want to move into leadership roles that shape digital transformation. The course brings together participants from diverse backgrounds to work on interdisciplinary solutions—creative business practice is combined with core management topics so you can lead change whether you come from IT or a non‑IT field.

Curriculum and teaching methods

You will explore ideation and innovation management alongside digital topics such as data analytics, data security and digital business models. The programme also covers strategic and financial frameworks, project management and leadership skills so you can apply digital knowledge at an executive level. Teaching is practice‑oriented and uses modern methods including cloud‑based simulations, haptic management games, case studies, virtual/blended learning and internship semesters that provide valuable hands‑on experience.

Outcomes and career prospects

Graduates gain an interdisciplinary skill set to drive practical innovations inside companies or launch their own startups. Typical entry positions include innovation manager, product manager, operations manager, business development associate, digital transformation consultant or start‑up founder. International students also benefit from intercultural learning and are expected to achieve at least B1 level German by graduation to improve local integration and job prospects.

Requirements (concise)

• Bachelor’s degree
• Some relevant work experience
• Programme language: English
• No prior programming experience required for applicants from non‑IT backgrounds
• Internship semesters included; graduates are expected to reach German language level B1 by graduation

Program structure and teaching approach

This four-semester master’s combines applied classroom work with an extended industry placement. During the first two semesters you follow a practice-oriented curriculum that uses case studies, lab work, excursions and expert meetings to connect theory with real-world digital challenges. The final two semesters are devoted to a substantial internship in industry and the Master’s thesis, enabling you to apply what you’ve learned in a professional setting and complete a research or development project.

Key modules and learning outcomes

The taught portion consists of 12 mandatory modules (each 5 ECTS) split into basic and core modules. Basic modules cover foundations such as applied economics, intercultural management and the strategic/financial context for businesses, plus two staged German language courses tailored to your entry level. Core modules focus on the technological and managerial skills needed for digital transformation: Innovation Management; Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, and Internet of Things; Digital Business Models; IT Security; Ideation Techniques and Digital Innovation; Project Management; Leadership and Change Management; plus an elective for targeted specialization. Learning outcomes include the ability to design and evaluate digital business models, apply data- and AI-driven methods, manage innovation projects, address cybersecurity considerations, and lead change in multicultural environments.

Practical experience and final thesis

In semesters three and four you complete a 30 ECTS internship with a company and write your 30 ECTS Master’s thesis. This placement and thesis phase consolidates practical know-how, expands professional networks, and produces a substantial piece of independent work that demonstrates your ability to solve industry-relevant problems.

Requirements / curriculum at a glance

• Standard duration: 4 semesters (full-time)
• Taught modules (Semesters 1–2): 12 modules × 5 ECTS = 60 ECTS
  • Basic modules (all mandatory):
    • Applied Economics and Intercultural Management
    • Strategic and Financial Framework
    • German Language 1*
    • German Language 2**
  • Core modules (all mandatory, plus one elective):
    • Innovation Management
    • Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, and Internet of Things
    • Digital Business Models
    • IT Security
    • Ideation Techniques and Digital Innovation
    • Project Management
    • Leadership and Change Management
    • Elective
• Practical phase (Semesters 3–4):
  • Internship: 30 ECTS
  • Master’s thesis: 30 ECTS
• Total ECTS (course + internship + thesis): 120 ECTS
• German language requirement at admission: must hold A1–B1; course level placement in Hof will be adjusted according to the student’s initial German proficiency

*Language courses are mandatory if admitted with German at A1–B1; the specific course level offered depends on your German at the start of studies.

Graduates are prepared for strategic and operational roles at the intersection of management and digitalisation. Typical entry positions include innovation manager, product manager, operations manager, business development associate, or digital transformation consultant. The programme also supports entrepreneurial careers for founders of digital start-ups.

The mandatory paid internship and applied teaching methods increase employability by providing industry experience, professional contacts and practical examples to demonstrate during job applications. Knowledge of German to at least B1 by graduation will broaden opportunities in German-speaking companies and supply-chain or manufacturing roles.