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The International Wine Business (IWB) program at Geisenheim University offers a comprehensive and globally oriented education in the field of viticulture, enology, and wine business management. Designed to prepare students for leadership roles within the international wine industry, this program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the global wine market. Students will gain a deep understanding of wine production processes, vineyard management, and wine technology, alongside courses focusing on marketing, sales, logistics, and financial management specifically tailored to the wine trade. The program emphasizes cross-cultural communication and international business strategies, reflecting the diverse and interconnected nature of the global wine industry. Participants benefit from exposure to leading industry experts, hands-on training at renowned wineries and wine estates, and opportunities to participate in international wine competitions and trade fairs. The curriculum includes modules on wine law, quality assurance, sustainability, and innovation, all aimed at fostering responsible and sustainable practices within the industry. As part of their studies, students have the chance to undertake internships abroad, gaining valuable international experience and expanding their professional network. The IWB program prepares graduates to pursue careers in wine production, distribution, marketing, import/export, or consultancy services across various countries and markets. With a focus on entrepreneurship and innovation, it also encourages students to develop their own business ideas and entrepreneurial ventures within the wine sector. Graduates emerge from the program with a solid foundation in both the technical and commercial aspects of the wine business, along with the intercultural competence necessary for success in the international marketplace. This program is ideal for individuals passionate about wine and eager to engage with the global wine community, offering a rigorous academic environment combined with practical industry exposure.
Educational organisation
The programme consists of lectures, seminars, practical elements, workshops, excursions, small group discussions and tutorials, combining in-class learning with learning-by-doing elements. The ECTS system allows for individual choices according to the programme outline.The first year of this three-year programme provides an intensive programme of study which includes, among others, the following modules:
- Economics and International Wine Markets
- Marketing Basics
- Business Operations
- General and Corporate Law
- International Product Profiles
- Sensory Evaluation
- Food and Wine Law
- English and German
- Information Technology
- Controlling
- Business Management
- Wine and Beverage Marketing
- Marketing project France
- Marketing Project Consumer Markets
- Project Southern Europe
- Wine Evaluation
- Viticulture
- Oenology
- Microbiology
- Marketing Project Asia
- Marketing Project New World
- Marketing Project Central- and Eastern Europe
- Project Italy, Switzerland and Austria
- Business Simulation
- Business Plan
- Completion of the Bachelor's thesis
Study abroad unit(s)
Students can complete their internship outside Germany. Additionally, excursions are offered.Internships
An internship of twelve weeks is to be completed during the summer break between the fourth and fifth semesters. Programme advisers will assist students in finding an appropriate internship.Forms of assessment
Written and oral exams in accordance with the guidelines, Bachelor's thesisFor graduation a minimum of 180 ECTS is required.
Course objectives
The objective of the programme is to prepare students for a career in the international wine business. We therefore educate our students in such a way that they are "job ready", meaning that rather than learning theories by heart, students are trained, using modern teaching methods, to apply their scientific knowledge to solve problems. Internships during the programme help students to develop and excel in competences and skills that form the basis for their future careers.Language requirements
Proof of English competence at minimum level B2 (CEFR) must be submitted with the application via uni-assist.The following certificates are recognised: TOEFL (minimum 80 points internet-based test), IELTS (minimum 5.5), Cambridge First Certificate - FCE - (minimum grade B)
Knowledge of German is not required, but is strongly recommended.
Academic requirements
German university admission certificate or foreign secondary school leaving certificate meeting the requirements for studying in Germany. Additionally, a precondition for admission is having completed 26 weeks of mandatory work experience prior to being admitted.Enrolment fees
Approx. 300 EUR per semester. The fee includes a semester ticket covering public transport in the RMV Area (stretching to Wiesbaden, Frankfurt, Frankfurt International Airport, etc.).Costs of living
Approx. 720 EUR per month to cover personal expensesJob opportunities
Part-time jobs in wineries, office jobs, student assistants - depending on knowledge and skillsArrival support
The student service and information centre offers support for international students in all relevant fields (welcome service, visa application, resident permit, accommodation, financing, tutoring, etc.).Services and support for international students
Student mentors support international students in all non-academic affairs related to living and studying in Geisenheim.Career Service provides information and advice in all questions regarding future career possibilities, further qualifications, and getting started with your career.
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