International Business and Global Transformation (Master of Arts)

Overview This English-taught Master's programme lets you deepen the knowledge you gained during your undergraduate studies in International Business and build on any professional experience you may already have. It adopts an application-focused approach to learning so you can immediately put theory into practice and develop competencies that are relevant for international business contexts.

Programme structure and learning methods The curriculum is organised into five module categories: core curriculum, quantitative methods, laboratories, a personal skills development programme, and the final exam period (Master’s thesis and colloquium). Teaching combines case studies, business simulation games, e‑learning units, interactive workshops and regular feedback to help you apply and integrate your individual skills in realistic business situations.

Focus on sustainability Sustainability is woven throughout the programme and shapes the way international business topics are taught. You will study current, comprehensive aspects of global business with particular emphasis on sustainable decision‑making, responsible management assessment and problem‑solving from multiple sustainability perspectives.

Who this suits This programme is a practical, skills-oriented option for students who want to extend their undergraduate background in International Business and translate prior academic learning or work experience into advanced, sustainability-focused management competencies.

Requirements (concise)

• A completed undergraduate degree in International Business
• Any professional experience you have gained can be built upon during the programme
• Programme language: English

This program is structured to combine on-campus study in Cologne with international exposure and applied research. During the first year (semesters 1–2) students take coursework at TH Köln, building foundations in international business and the processes of global transformation. The second year begins with a required semester abroad (semester 3) to deepen intercultural competence and global business understanding. In the final semester (semester 4) students complete a supervised Master’s thesis, which may be carried out in cooperation with an international company or organisation, and conclude the degree with a colloquium after successful thesis submission.

Practical experience and professional development are strongly encouraged throughout the programme. Students are urged to undertake internships during summer and winter breaks to gain applied skills and industry contacts. The thesis collaboration option gives a direct bridge to employer-relevant research and real-world problem solving, while the colloquium provides experience in presenting and defending academic work.

Campus life offers many ways to develop soft skills, demonstrate social responsibility, and expand networks. Active student groups include the departmental student representatives for business administration (Fachschaft Wirtschaft: http://www.fachschaft-wirtschaft.info), the student union AStA (http://www.asta.th-koeln.de), and initiatives such as the Faculty Alumni Association, Marketing zwischen Theorie und Praxis e.V. (MTP), and Enactus — all of which support extracurricular learning, volunteering, and professional networking.

Key components and requirements

• First and second semesters: on-site coursework at TH Köln in Cologne, Germany.
• Third semester: mandatory semester abroad at an international partner institution or equivalent placement.
• Fourth semester: Master’s thesis (possibility to cooperate with an international company or organisation) and concluding colloquium.
• Internships: strongly encouraged during summer and winter breaks to acquire practical experience.
• Extracurricular engagement: numerous student organisations and initiatives provide opportunities for leadership, networking, and community involvement.

Typical learning outcomes

• Enhanced understanding of international business dynamics and global transformation processes.
• Practical research skills and experience in applied problem solving through the Master’s thesis, including options for employer collaboration.
• Improved intercultural competence and international experience gained during the mandatory semester abroad.
• Professional readiness supported by internships and active participation in student initiatives, fostering networking and social responsibility.

Graduates are prepared for international careers in multinational companies, consultancies, non-governmental organisations, international institutions and sustainability-focused enterprises. The combination of applied business knowledge, quantitative methods and sustainability awareness equips students for roles in strategy, business development, project management, supply chain and sustainability management.

The programme’s mandatory study abroad, opportunities for internships, and possibility to prepare the thesis in cooperation with industry also help build international networks and practical experience valued by employers in cross-border and interdisciplinary roles.