MA in Global Trade Management

Program overview The MA is a consecutive business administration master with a clear focus on international trade and foreign-trade-related topics. The curriculum strengthens core business-administration knowledge while integrating up-to-date trends from practice through close collaboration with company representatives across various sectors. The emphasis is on internationality and applied skills to prepare graduates for responsible managerial roles both in Germany and internationally.

Practical orientation and international cohort Teaching is delivered entirely in English and combines business theory with hands-on elements such as a placement semester (internship) and an independent master’s thesis. The programme’s international student body and industry links help participants develop intercultural competences and practical experience valued by employers. Graduates are well-equipped for careers in small and medium-sized enterprises, multinational firms, associations, and other international organisations.

Flexible completion paths Students can follow the traditional study track or choose a cooperative track that integrates study with company-based experience; details on the differences are set out in the study plan. It is also possible to shorten the standard study period by omitting the placement semester: the programme can be completed in four semesters (120 ECTS) or, if the placement semester is excluded, in three semesters (90 ECTS). More detailed information is available on the programme website.

Key facts / entry and programme requirements

• Consecutive Master’s degree in Business Administration with focus on international trade
• Language of instruction: English (all lectures taught in English)
• Practical components: placement semester (internship) and master’s thesis
• Study options: traditional or cooperative (in collaboration with a company)
• Duration and credits: 4 semesters = 120 ECTS, or 3 semesters = 90 ECTS (if placement semester is excluded)
• Career focus: prepares for managerial roles in SMEs, international companies, associations, and organisations
• International cohort and industry partnerships that foster intercultural and practical skills
• Further programme details and application information available on the programme website

Curriculum overview

This MA runs over four semesters and takes you from foundational theory to applied practice and independent research. The program starts with a concentrated introduction to the core elements of global trade, moves on to advanced business and trade skills, then gives you a full placement semester for hands‑on industry experience, and concludes with a supervised master's thesis that synthesizes your learning.

Across the first two semesters you build a solid grasp of how international trade systems operate and develop the analytical and managerial skills needed to operate in cross‑border business environments. The third semester is devoted to a placement that lets you apply classroom knowledge in a professional setting, while the fourth semester is focused on designing and completing an in‑depth research project that demonstrates your mastery of the subject.

For full module descriptions, credit information and assessment methods please consult the program website or download the program PDF.

• Semester 1 — The Core Elements of Global Trade: foundational concepts and frameworks that underpin international trade practice
• Semester 2 — Advanced Business and Global Trade Skills: deeper, practice‑oriented competencies for strategic and operational decision‑making in global trade
• Semester 3 — Placement semester: an approved industry placement or internship to gain practical experience and professional contacts
• Semester 4 — Master's Thesis: an independent research project supervised by faculty, culminating in a written thesis and (where applicable) an oral defense

Key learning outcomes you can expect:

• Mastery of fundamental principles and contemporary issues in international trade
• Development of advanced analytical, managerial and practical skills relevant to cross‑border commerce
• Real‑world experience through a supervised placement that enhances employability and professional networks
• Ability to plan, conduct and present independent research on a topic in global trade management

The programme explicitly prepares graduates for challenging managerial roles in Germany and abroad and is targeted at careers in small and medium-sized enterprises as well as international companies, associations and organisations. Graduates gain integrated business and foreign-trade knowledge aimed at functions that manage or coordinate international trade activities.

Typical career paths include roles in export/import management, foreign trade and customs departments, international sales and business development, supply chain and logistics coordination, trade compliance, and consultancy with a focus on cross-border trade. The placement semester and company partnerships provide practical experience and networking that support transition into these professional roles.