Overview
This interdisciplinary Master’s blends Business Administration with Data Science to train professionals who can turn data into actionable business insight. You will learn the methodological foundations of data analysis alongside techniques for automated and intelligent data evaluation, while also developing consulting skills through company analysis and hands-on consulting projects. The programme is designed so graduates can produce reliable forecasts and help organisations meet their strategic goals more effectively.
Practical focus and international exposure
The course emphasizes real-world application: modules are taught by practitioners and IT managers, and students take part in workshops, company excursions and applied projects to practise the methods learned in class. The curriculum includes a compulsory practical component and is structured to prepare you for careers that require both technical data capabilities and business consulting acumen. The programme is taught in English and benefits from international AACSB accreditation.
Mobility and degree options
The MSc is offered at ISM locations in Dortmund, Munich, Hamburg and Stuttgart and includes a semester abroad at one of ISM’s partner universities in Europe or overseas. There is also the option to pursue an accredited double degree with a partner institution abroad, giving additional international credentials and exposure.
Key facts and programme requirements
Curriculum overview
Over the first two semesters you build a solid foundation in business administration while acquiring the methodological toolkit needed for advanced data work. Coursework emphasizes intelligent data retrieval and analysis, with hands-on big data projects that train you in agile project management and the scientific methods used for rigorous data-driven decision making. These early semesters bridge management thinking and technical practice so you can tackle real-world analytics challenges.
In semester three you spend a semester abroad at one of the program’s partner universities in Europe or overseas, broadening your international perspective and creating opportunities for cross-border study or an international double degree. The program concludes in semester four with a research-oriented master’s thesis that integrates your practical experience and academic learning.
Practical projects and an integrated internship are embedded throughout the curriculum to ensure strong industry relevance. Combined with the semester abroad and the double-degree option, the program is designed to prepare graduates for positions on the international job market in analytics, BI, and data-driven strategy roles.
Key modules (examples emphasized by the curriculum)
Expected learning outcomes
Curriculum requirements (core components you will complete)
This master's programme requires a completed undergraduate degree and evidence of relevant subject knowledge. Applicants should hold a Bachelor's degree worth at least 180 ECTS (or an internationally equivalent degree from a recognised higher‑education institution). The programme expects coursework covering both business and quantitative topics; if your degree does not include enough subject‑specific credits, recognised professional experience in both business and quantitative roles can make up the shortfall.
The application is submitted online and includes a short selection process: you must upload key documents, demonstrate English proficiency at B2 level, and take part in an online interview. As part of admissions you will prepare a brief case‑study presentation and present your results during the admissions test (online interview).
Requirements (bullet points)
Notes for international applicants
Winter Semester (International)
15 July 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
31 August 2026
Graduates are prepared for roles that bridge data science and business strategy, such as data scientist, business intelligence analyst, analytics consultant, or data-driven business consultant. The programme's mix of methodological data skills, business analysis and consulting projects enables alumni to translate data insights into actionable business decisions and to contribute directly to achieving corporate goals.
Practical elements—compulsory internships, industry-led teaching, and the option for a semester abroad or double degree—enhance employability and provide international mobility. Graduates are in demand across sectors including consulting, finance, technology, manufacturing and healthcare, where companies seek professionals who can apply advanced analytics to real-world business problems.
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