This English-language, distance-learning MBA is a four-semester (90 ECTS) programme designed to develop broad, cross-industry business management knowledge alongside advanced social and leadership skills. Designed for working professionals, the curriculum combines practical, work-related content with methods that support flexible study while maintaining live interaction with lecturers and peers. The programme is accredited by AQAS and is delivered by Ludwigshafen University of Business and Society in cooperation with zfh (Centre for Distance Learning at Universities).
The course is organised in modular form with compulsory modules and one elective module in the third semester. Study phases alternate between self-study and live online sessions during the first three semesters; those sessions are also recorded and made available on the e-learning platform together with tutorial materials. Teaching emphasises hands-on learning through case examples, case studies and project work. All examinations are conducted online and include presentations, case analyses and oral exams. You can also take selected modules as a certificate programme, and there are double-degree options with SAMK (Finland), Barcelona Technology School, and City University of Seattle. Graduates gain eligibility for higher civil service positions and may pursue doctoral studies.
Key facts and programme requirements
This master’s curriculum combines theory with hands-on skills to prepare you for real-world management challenges in international business. The program emphasizes applied competence—students work on problem-solving for professional practice through up-to-date tutorial materials and interactive online seminars. The first three semesters are delivered primarily as guided self-study supported by recorded online seminars on the e-learning platform; the fourth semester is dedicated to writing the master’s thesis and presenting it in an online colloquium.
Coursework covers core functional areas of international business: marketing (including international marketing), logistics (manufacturing and distribution), strategic management and controlling, and human resource management. You will also take modules that build interpersonal and intercultural capabilities—social competency, rhetoric, cross-cultural communication and international competencies such as international market research and international corporate management. Practical-methodological training appears throughout (scientific work, business simulation), and you choose two elective advanced modules from law, sociology, managerial finance and macroeconomics to tailor your profile.
Key modules and semester layout
Typical learning outcomes
Study format and assessment highlights
This programme expects applicants to hold a relevant first degree and some practical commercial experience, but there are alternative routes for candidates who do not meet the standard academic requirement. If your grades are slightly below the stated threshold, a motivational interview can still secure admission. Candidates without a university degree may be considered if they satisfy legal entrance requirements and can demonstrate substantial, relevant professional experience and international exposure; they must pass a formal qualifying assessment.
Below are the admission requirements in concise bullet-point form:
Applicants with a first university degree (or an accredited Bachelor's from a university of cooperative education / "Berufsakademie"):
Applicants without a first university degree (alternative route — qualifying examination possible under conditions):
Winter Semester (International)
30 June 2026
Summer Semester (International)
15 January 2027
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
30 June 2026
Summer Semester (EU/EEA)
15 January 2027
Graduates leave the programme equipped for management and leadership roles in international business environments, with strengthened strategic, intercultural and social competencies. The applied, case-based curriculum supports transitions into managerial positions, consulting or international project roles.
The degree also formally opens access to higher civil service in Germany and provides a pathway to doctoral studies for those wishing to pursue further academic research.
HWR Berlin (Berlin School of Economics and Law) — Berlin
Dortmund University of Applied Sciences and Arts — Dortmund
Furtwangen University — Villingen-Schwenningen
Harz University of Applied Sciences — Wernigerode