Economics

The Economics Bachelor's programme at the University of Hohenheim offers students a comprehensive education in the fundamental principles and analytical methods of economics. Designed to provide a solid foundation in both theoretical and applied economics, this programme prepares graduates for diverse career opportunities in industry, finance, government, and research institutions. Throughout the course of study, students explore a wide range of topics including microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, international economics, and development economics. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, quantitative analysis, and problem-solving skills essential for understanding and addressing economic challenges in a global context. Students have the opportunity to deepen their knowledge through specialised electives, practical projects, and internships that foster real-world experience. The programme also incorporates elements of business administration and social sciences to ensure a well-rounded educational experience. With a strong emphasis on research and data analysis, students learn to interpret complex economic data and develop strategies for decision-making under uncertainty. The University of Hohenheim's distinguished faculty members bring vast academic expertise and practical insights, guiding students through a dynamic and interactive learning environment. The programme aims to prepare graduates not only for immediate employment but also for graduate studies or entrepreneurial pursuits. Emphasis is placed on international perspectives, ethical considerations, and sustainable economic development, reflecting the university’s commitment to socially responsible education. Upon completion, students will have gained critical analytical skills, a solid understanding of economic systems, and the ability to apply economic theories to real-life situations, positioning them well for successful careers in various sectors of the economy.

Educational organisation

The economics programme is designed for four half-years (semesters) of full time study. It allows for a significant amount of specialisation in line with individual abilities and interests.

Participants earn their 120 European Credit Transfer System Points (ECTS). The compulsory courses offered in the first semester prepare students for the different fields in which they will specialise. These courses help students gain advanced theoretical foundations in economics and learn more about useful methods in economics. Starting in the second semester, students choose (based on individual interests) their electives out of a variety of different fields in economics. Up to two electives may be chosen out of the field of business administration, law, or other social sciences. Moreover, in two of the electives, students write seminar theses to further consolidate their knowledge in the respective fields.

In the fourth semester, each student writes a Master's thesis, which is an independently written scientific paper in the area of economics. The thesis may be written on a topic relating to the fields of any of the electives as well as the compulsory modules. Processing time is three months, starting from the day of registration.

Study abroad unit(s)

The Faculty of Business, Economics and Social Sciences strongly supports an international orientation of its Master's degree programmes. The MSc in Economics offers optional one-semester stays abroad at one of the nearly 70 partner institutions of the faculty and the university.

Qualified students are given the opportunity to participate in a double Master's degree programme with the following universities:

• University of Pavia (Italy)
• University of Liège (Belgium)

The double Master's degree programme offers further specialisation in:

University of Pavia (Italy):

• "Industrial Organisation and Market Strategies"
• "International Economic Integration"
• "Finance"

HEC - Université de Liège (Belgium)

• "Economic Analysis and Public Governance"
• "Economics and Finance"

Double Master's degree students spend the first year in Stuttgart-Hohenheim and the second year at the partner institution. The language of instruction is English.

Forms of assessment

Written and oral exams, short reports and seminar papers, presentation, Master's thesis

Course objectives

The Master of Science in Economics has the concept and vision to prepare participants for a successful professional career in high-ranking positions in industry, research, consulting, finance, international agencies, and the public sector.

Students are endowed with broad intellectual and analytical skills, in demand in all sectors of the economy, and with specific professional knowledge of value to many organisations and firms. The flexible, modular structure of the programme suits students with applied and/or research-oriented interests. It allows for a significant amount of specialisation in line with individual abilities and interests in addition to the compulsory basic modules.

The Master of Science in Economics focuses on imparting a profound knowledge of state-of-the-art theoretical and empirical approaches in economics. Participants gain a deep understanding of interdependencies between economic, social and political processes.

The programme provides participants with soft skills through intensive team work, project assignments, and communication.

Language requirements

Applicants must provide proof of their English skills (level B2):
TOEFL 550 points (paper-based), 213 points (computer-based), 79-80 points (internet-based) or equivalent

Academic requirements

Bachelor's degree

• in business administration or economics with a standard period of study of at least three years, or
• in a three-year university programme in the field of management and economics in Germany, or
• in a university programme at an international university with a Bachelor's degree of at least three years in management and/or economics, or
• in a programme related to management and economics

Enrolment fees

Approx. 160 EUR per semester
The fee includes a semester ticket partly covering public transport in the Stuttgart metropolitan area.

Costs of living

Approx. 760 EUR per month to cover personal expenses

Job opportunities

There are many possibilities, e.g., working as a research assistant or working part-time jobs outside of the university.

Funding opportunities within the university

There are several scholarship programmes. For further information please follow the attached link.
http://www.uni-hohenheim.de/awards0

Arrival support

Assistance with accommodation and administrative formalities will be provided by the (central) Office of International Affairs. The International Student Organisation runs a buddy programme, which provides international students with a buddy, if so desired.

Services and support for international students

The programme coordinator supports students with the organisation of their study programme. The International Student Organisation (ISO) offers a buddy programme as well as an extensive recreational programme.
German language courses for beginners and advanced learners are offered during the semester and as an intensive course during March, August and September.

Accommodation

Accommodation is available through the Student Services Hohenheim or on the private market. Rent for a single room in a student residence ranges from 210-400 EUR.