IBSA

The programme aims to develop the distinctive competencies required to operate as managers in a global business environment.
These competencies include a sound knowledge of finance, marketing, business law, strategic analysis and human resource management. Those are the competencies conveyed in the core modules during the first term. The core modules are similar at each partner university.
In addition, a range of communication and problem-solving skills are also developed.
It is equally important, however, that you will develop the cultural sensitivities that will enable you to operate in different countries and in multicultural and multinational environments.
In the second term students move to the partner university that offers the specialisation of their choice:

• International Logistics and Supply Chain Management (Hochschule Bremen)
• International Marketing (University of Valencia)
• Management in Emerging Markets (RANEPA Institute of Business Studies, Moscow)
• International Finance and Investments (University of North Carolina Wilmington)
• Human Resource Management (University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield)
• Global Islamic Finance (UNIRAZAK, Kuala Lumpur)
• International Business Development and Consulting (Novancia Business School Paris)

During the third term students will complete their Master's thesis in the field of their specialisation

Study abroad unit(s)

It is mandatory that students move to a second partner university of the International Business School Alliance to continue with their specialisation in the second term. A truly international and culturally diverse learning experience is guaranteed.

Forms of assessment

Written exams under supervision (proctored examinations), oral examinations and presentations, written presentations, project assignments and project work
Students obtain 30 ECTS for each semester.

Course objectives

The IMBA programme at the International Graduate Center of the University of Applied Sciences Bremen equips graduates:

• with the ability to design logistics networks with fundamentals of international trade and provide them with in-depth knowledge of components and characteristics of international transport systems
• with the ability to master the challenges of sourcing and procurement logistics in the global business environment
• with in-depth understanding of international maritime transport as the backbone of globalisation
• with a practical approach to project management based on internationally accepted concepts and standards
• with the ability to work and lead effectively in multicultural teams
• with the ability to learn to understand different cultures, communicate and behave successfully within these cultures

Language requirements

Very good English language skills are required; proof of English proficiency with TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) 80 iBT points or IELTS (International Language Testing System) 6.5 points.

Academic requirements

Previous undergraduate degree in business management or its equivalent, or proof of sound knowledge of business administration (proof of having studied business-related modules)
At least one year of practical professional experience

Enrolment fees

Approx. 280 EUR per semester (subject to change). The fee includes a semester ticket for public transportation in and around Bremen, a contribution to the student union as well as administration fees.

Costs of living

Food/meals: approx. 300 EUR/month
Warm food and snacks are least expensive at the university's cafeterias.
Local transport is included in the enrolment fee. Students receive a semester ticket, which is a pass for free access to buses, trams, and regional trains servicing Bremen and the surrounding area.
Academic expenses: about 30 EUR/month
The University Library (with three locations) is free of charge.
Health insurance: approx. 80 EUR/month
Living expenses: approx. 700 EUR/month (including rent)

Job opportunities

Being a one-year full-time Master's course and due to the intense study period and high work-load, it is not possible for students to work during the course of study. Only in individual cases a student job might be exceptionally offered for a few hours a week (max. 43 hours/month, roughly 9 EUR/h).
(In general, students from European Union countries do not require a work permit to work during their course of study.
Students from countries outside the European Union may work 120 full days or 240 half days over the course of one year without a work permit. A special permit is required to work more than this.)

Arrival support

The International Student Assistance (ISA) of the International Graduate Center of the University of Applied Sciences Bremen offers a pick-up service from the airport or train station.

Services and support for international students

Living and studying in another country is both exciting and interesting, but at the same time it also necessitates organisational and administrative work. Our international applicants and students do not need to worry about this. Our Student Service (ISA) looks after them right from the start and answers all questions with regard to their planned study visit in Bremen beforehand. The international student assistance (isa@hs-bremen.de) takes on the task of finding accommodation, gives support with visa applications, clarifies insurance queries and helps students in their dealings with authorities both at home and abroad. This service is available to students free of charge. Furthermore, ISA allocates tutors to students and regularly organises excursions and events during their period of study in Bremen.

Accommodation

The international student assistance (isa@hs-bremen.de) takes on the task of finding accommodation. This service is available to students free of charge. The applicants also have access to an online database where they can choose from various options for accommodation. Most students live in rented rooms or apartments which must be rented for at least six months. The rent for a single room is approx. 380-500 EUR.