International Business and Consulting — Specialisation "International Strategic Management"

International Business and Consulting – Specialisation: International Strategic Management

The International Business and Consulting program with a focus on International Strategic Management at the Berlin School of Economics and Law offers students a comprehensive education designed to prepare them for leadership roles in the global business environment. This program combines rigorous theoretical insights with practical skills, equipping graduates to analyze, develop, and implement effective strategies in diverse international markets. Students will gain a solid understanding of international economic and political contexts, cross-cultural management, and consulting methodologies. The curriculum covers key topics such as global market analysis, strategic decision-making, innovation management, and sustainable business practices, fostering a holistic view of business operations worldwide. Through case studies, project work, and internships, students develop critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and strategic agility. The program emphasizes the importance of cultural awareness and ethical considerations in international business, ensuring graduates are prepared to navigate complex global challenges responsibly. With a strong international orientation and close ties to industry, this specialization offers excellent networking opportunities and insights into current global trends. Graduates of this program will be well-equipped to pursue careers in international management, consulting firms, multinational corporations, or start their own ventures. The program’s innovative teaching methods and diverse student body create a dynamic learning environment that encourages collaboration, creativity, and lifelong learning. Upon completion, students earn a recognized degree that supports their professional growth in the international business arena, making them valuable assets for organizations seeking strategic thinkers with global expertise.

Educational organisation

The Master's programme is basically divided into three parts:

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 internship 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 commence their specialisation.
The second semester modules - also worth 30 credit points - build on the first semester to provide additional specialised skills required for challenges in their future careers.
The two semesters are accompanied by a personal development module which provides a platform for individual self-reflection and competence development.
For students who do not have to take an internship semester (usually students with 210 credit points), 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)

There is a maximum of two places each year to obtain a double degree in cooperation with the Symbiosis International University in Pune, India. 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 Master in International Strategic Management 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 variety of testing methods at the Berlin School of Economics and Law - 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 which require strategic, cross-functional competencies in companies who are active in the international arena, in consulting firms, or in international investment promotion bodies.

Language requirements

Applicants have to prove excellent knowledge of English equivalent to at least level B2 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 strategic management, financial and managerial accounting, and operations management (or equivalent topics), overall worth at least 15 credit points
• minimum of 210 ECTS credit points (applicants with 180 ECTS must obtain an additional 30 credits in an integrated internship after the first two semesters and before the end of their studies)
• 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
• letter of motivation in English
• CV in English
• GMAT with a score of 600 or above (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 material, 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.