StudyQA — Master: International Business and Consulting — Specialisation in International Human Resource Management

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The International Business and Consulting – Specialisation in International Human Resource Management master's programme at the Berlin School of Economics and Law is designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills necessary for managing human resources in a global business environment. This innovative programme combines core principles of international business strategy, intercultural communication, and organizational management with specialized modules focusing on human resource management in an international context. Students will explore critical topics such as cross-cultural leadership, international labour laws, talent acquisition, development strategies, and employee relations across diverse cultural settings. The curriculum emphasizes practical application through case studies, group projects, and internships, ensuring graduates are prepared to meet the challenges faced by multinational organizations. The programme aims to foster a global perspective, cross-cultural competence, and strategic thinking, enabling graduates to design and implement effective HR policies that contribute to organizational success worldwide. The classes are delivered by experienced faculty members with extensive academic backgrounds and industry expertise, providing students with mentorship and insights into current trends in international HR management. The programme also offers opportunities for networking with international professionals, participating in exchange programmes, and engaging in practical projects with partner organizations. Graduates will be well-equipped to pursue careers in multinational corporations, consulting firms, international NGOs, and governmental agencies, where strategic HR management is vital to organizational performance. With a strong emphasis on both theoretical foundations and practical applications, this master's programme prepares students to become innovative and culturally sensitive HR leaders capable of navigating complex global markets. The programme is primarily designed for students aspiring to work in international human resource management roles, consultants specializing in organizational development, or professionals seeking to enhance their global managerial skills in diverse operational environments.

Educational organisation

The Master's programme is divided into three sections:

First semester: foundation courses and specialisation
Second semester: foundation courses and specialisation
Third semester: Master's thesis (provided students do not have to take an additional work placement semester)

The first semester modules are worth a total of 30 credit points. During the first semester, students extend their knowledge in particular areas and start specialising.
The second semester modules - also worth 30 credit points - build on the first semester to provide additional specialised skills required for the challenges in the HR career sector.
The two semesters are accompanied by a personal development module to provide further individual skills.
For students who do not do an internship, the third semester is scheduled for completing the degree by submitting a Master's thesis and defending it in an oral exam. During the third semester, a research methodology seminar is provided to support work on the Master's thesis. The third semester is worth a total of 30 credit points.
Total credits after successful completion of the programme: 90 ECTS (120 ECTS with mandatory internship)

Study abroad unit(s)

The option to obtain a double degree in cooperation with the Symbiosis International University in Pune, India, is open to a maximum of two students per year. Students are chosen in an internal selection process at the Berlin School of Economics and Law after admission to the Master's programme International Business & Consulting.

Internships

210 ECTS credit points are required for admission to the programme. Applicants with 180 ECTS credit points will be required to obtain the additional 30 ECTS credit points by completing a work placement in the third semester. The programme will then last four semesters.

Forms of assessment

All modules of the curriculum of the MA in International Business and Consulting will be assessed at the end of each semester, either in an exam, a presentation, a paper or another form determined by the leader of the course. All modules are assigned credits according to the workload. A final thesis must be submitted at the end of the course of studies.
The final grade is an accumulation of the credits for the modules taken, weighted by their relevance to the curriculum and the final exam.
The BSEL's variety of testing methods - written assignments, oral examinations, presentations, individual or group projects - takes into account the varying demands of the future occupational practice. It also allows for differences in learning methods on the part of the students.

Course objectives

The programme prepares students for positions as HR specialists, HR professionals, or HR executives in companies active in the international arena as well as positions in HR consulting firms and HR service providers. In the public administration sector, the Master's degree is recognised as a qualification allowing the holder to apply for posts in the senior civil service.

Language requirements

The language of instruction is English. Applicants have to prove excellent working knowledge of English equivalent to at least B2 level of the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages), e.g. TOEFL iBT 87, IELTS 6.0, or CAE.

Academic requirements

Bachelor's or equivalent degree in business studies (or in a related subject with a focus on business studies)
Evidence of having completed undergraduate courses in human resource management, organisational design/behaviour, and labour law, worth at least 15 credit points
Excellent English skills equivalent to at least B2 on the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages), e.g. TOEFL iBT 87 points, IELTS 6.0 or CAE
Minimum of 210 ECTS credit points (applicants with 180 credits must obtain an additional 30 credits in an integrated internship after the first two semesters and before the end of their studies)
Letter of motivation in English
CV in English
GMAT with a score of 600 or above (This applies only to non EU/non-EEA degrees. In this case, proof of English proficiency is not necessary)

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.