Leadership for Digital Transformation

The GISMA MSc Leadership for Digital Transformation provides you with all of the essential tools and practical skills to pursue a career in leading transformation projects and change agendas for the digital economy.  
Digitalisation is changing business models, technologies, and the value proposition of organisations. This means that there is a need for redefining and restructuring efficiency and customer value propositions. 
This programme focuses on how to lead this process and guide your organisation into the future from an international perspective. It opens up careers in multiple sectors, including business, government and consulting, as no part of society is immune to these challenging circumstances. In addition, the 2-year programme includes big data, cyber security, or cloud computing know-how, directly provided by renowned digital companies such as Amazon or Alibaba.

Accreditations and rankings
GISMA Business School also has a long history of working with partner universities in Europe and has successfully delivered partner programmes accredited by AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS, and EPAS.

Who is the programme for?

The programme is for aspiring managers and consultants who want to prepare themselves to take on senior leadership roles in the digitisation process related to all business functions and drive change in their organisations 
This postgraduate degree is perfect for graduates in business management or a similar undergraduate business programme as well as graduates of closely related disciplines such as economics, psychology, law, or other social sciences.  This programme may also complement a prior undergraduate degree in engineering, computer science, computer engineering or closely related sciences.
Business and/or management experience after the first academic degree is not necessary but highly desirable.

What will you learn?
You will learn to approach digital transformation from a multi-perspective, integrating technological, social and economic aspects. By combining digital transformation and leadership, you will be able to shape and lead change processes. The program imparts fundamental knowledge of the subject area, including business administration, economics, technology, innovation management, entrepreneurship, data control organization design, and cognitive psychology & leadership

Why choose this programme?
Leading the digitalisation from a broader perspective (business, technology, and society) is the focus of this programme. It will be supported by insights of the bigger picture of the organisation and management, as well as communication skills on “how to change”.

How will you study? 

GISMA Business School supports flexible and individual learning by applying a systematic hybrid learning scheme. You will spend part of your lectures in class at our Berlin-Potsdam campus. These face-to-face phases are complemented by e-learning sessions. You will work on cases, reflect on readings, take part in online discussions, and participate in group exercises and projects. This variety of learning methods is part of our unique teaching strategy, which includes student-centred pedagogy, project-based learning, collaborative learning, and personalised coaching.
You can start working on your master thesis after you have earned two thirds of the total programme credits. The thesis takes three months in the 1-year programme and six months in the 2-year programme.

Programme Structure

Leadership and Decision Making
• HR Management and Organization Design
• Cognitive Psychology & Leadership
• Management of People in Cross Cultural Environments
• Behavioural Competencies in Virtual Teams
• Emotional Agility in International Business
• CEO Decision Making & Case Studies

Project Management and Sustainability
• Project Management
• CSR, Diversity and Ethics

Study abroad or Internship or Business Project
Digital competencies
• Innovation Management and Digital Transformation
• T.I.M.E. in a Digital World
• Digital Marketing and Analytics
• Cybersecurity and Digital Risk Management
• Electives in Cloud Computing, Big Data and Cyber Security from Amazon, Alibaba and Co.
Scientific and Methods Competence
Research Methods and Scientific Work
Master Thesis

• Bachelor’s degree in relevant scientific discipline 
• English proficiency: B2 (IELTS 6.0) or equivalent
• For non-standard entry routes please seek clarification on requirements with our admissions team.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

1-year programme
EU fee - € 13,000 / Year
International fee - €15,500 / Year

2-year programme
EU fee - € 11,000 / Year
International fee - €12,500 / Year

Leadership for Digital Transformation at GISMA Business School is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to lead digital change within organizations. The curriculum focuses on developing strategic leadership capabilities, understanding digital technologies, and managing innovation in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. The program combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, enabling learners to effectively drive digital initiatives and foster transformation in diverse business environments.

Students are exposed to core topics such as digital strategy development, change management, leadership theories, innovation management, data analytics, and emerging digital trends. The program emphasizes the importance of leadership agility, digital culture, and stakeholder engagement, preparing graduates to become effective leaders who can spearhead digital transformation projects from inception to implementation.

The program often incorporates case studies, group projects, and real-world scenarios to ensure practical learning outcomes. It also aims to enhance soft skills such as communication, decision-making, project management, and team leadership, which are vital for successful digital leadership. Courses may be delivered through a mix of lectures, workshops, online modules, and interactive sessions, providing flexibility and accessibility for working professionals.

GISMA Business School, renowned for its focus on innovative business education, collaborates with industry experts and corporate partners to deliver relevant content that aligns with current digital transformation challenges across various sectors. The program may also include opportunities for networking, internships, or consultancy projects, helping students build professional connections and practical experience.

Internationally recognized, the Master’s degree in Leadership for Digital Transformation prepares graduates for senior roles such as digital transformation manager, innovation leader, digital strategist, and CIO. It aims to foster a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability, essential qualities in the ever-changing digital economy. The diverse student body and global perspective of GISMA enhance cultural awareness and understanding of digital leadership in different contexts. Overall, this program is suited for managers, entrepreneurs, and professionals seeking to lead digital initiatives and create value through technological innovation within their organizations.