International Business Administration (dual degree)

The International Business Administration (Dual Degree) program at Berlin School of Economics and Law offers students a comprehensive and globally oriented education designed to prepare them for leadership roles in the international business environment. This innovative program combines rigorous academic coursework with practical experiences, enabling students to develop a broad understanding of key business functions such as management, marketing, finance, and international trade. Students will benefit from a unique dual-degree structure, typically involving study periods at both Berlin School of Economics and Law and a partner university abroad, fostering intercultural competence and global networking opportunities. The curriculum emphasizes international business strategies, cross-cultural communication, and the ethical considerations of global commerce, equipping graduates to navigate complex multinational markets. Throughout the program, students engage in real-world projects, internships, and case studies that enhance their practical skills and industry insights. The program also emphasizes the development of critical soft skills, including leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are essential for succeeding in dynamic international environments. With access to a diverse community of students and faculty, modern facilities, and close ties to industry partners, participants will build a robust professional network that supports their career aspirations worldwide. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in multinational corporations, consulting firms, international organizations, and entrepreneurial ventures. The International Business Administration (Dual Degree) program at Berlin School of Economics and Law embodies a commitment to academic excellence, intercultural understanding, and practical relevance, making it an ideal choice for ambitious students seeking to make an impact in the global business arena.

Educational organisation

Full-time, work-integrated programme
Participating companies are obliged to pay the trainee a monthly subsidy for all months covered by the traineeship contract, including the months of theoretical study.
All matriculated students are bound by their traineeship contracts. This means that they must complete a fixed period of studies not exceeding three years, which can only be extended for a year in the event of illness, pregnancy, or for re-taking examinations. Any further extensions are only permissible under special conditions (e.g. renewed matriculation as a result of long illness), with the explicit consent of the training company.

Study abroad unit(s)

Training companies are obliged to arrange a three-month traineeship in a subsidiary abroad during the study period.
Students have the option of studying at a foreign university in the fifth semester.

Internships

The study comprises six semesters, combining 12 weeks of teaching and 12 weeks of on-the-job training per semester with shared educational responsibility by the teaching staff of the Berlin School of Economics and Law and the participating companies. Admission is only possible on the basis of an accompanying traineeship contract.

Forms of assessment

Depending on the type of module: written and oral exams, term papers, presentations, practice project reports, Bachelor's thesis

Course objectives

All graduates are expected to demonstrate a critical skill, namely, the ability to render the transfer of theoretical knowledge into practical tasks while incorporating expertise, operation competence, and social competence. Clearly, modules such as Project Management, Cross-Cultural Management, and Business Communication Applications impart key qualifications in targeted leadership, social competence, work and conflict management, communication and rhetorical skills, presenting, and conducting business meetings effectively. Coupled with interactive instruction, these modules provide a sound frame of reference for the international business stage.

Language requirements

Applicants from non-English speaking countries require an English test: TOEFL ITP, minimum 543 points, or iBT, minimum 87 points; alternative: ELSA test, minimum score 383 points
Non-German applicants require also the "Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang (DSH-2)" or TestDaF with TDN 4 in all four tests.

Required DSH / TestDaF

Yes

Academic requirements

Germans:

• General higher education entrance qualification after twelve years of school (Abitur)
• Traineeship contract

Internationals:

• A non-German school leaving certificate which is approved by the "Zeugnisanerkennungsstelle der Senatsverwaltung für Bildung, Jugend und Wissenschaft" Berlin (http://www.berlin.de/sen/bjw/anerkennung/schulische-abschluesse/) or by uni-assist e. V. (http://www.uni-assist.de)
• Traineeship contract

Enrolment fees

Approx. 300 EUR (subject to change without notice) per semester cover fees for the student services organisation and student parliament groups as well as the cost of a semester ticket which allows students to use the Berlin Public Transport (BVG) for six months.

Costs of living

The cost of living in Berlin is estimated at approx. 850 EUR per month. This includes rent in a student residence hall (private accommodation costs from 300 to 500 EUR per month), living expenses, health insurance, books and materials, and incidental expenses.

Job opportunities

There are many job opportunities for students in Berlin.
Non-EU students are permitted to work within specified limits.

Arrival support

The Study Office offers an orientation day to new students and assists with administrative matters such as residence permits, insurance, etc.

Services and support for international students

You will be supported by the Study Office at the Berlin School of Economics and Law.

Accommodation

Student Services ("Studentenwerk") and other institutions currently offer some 15,600 rooms in student residence halls throughout Berlin.