The International Business — Intercultural Studies (IBIS) program at Heilbronn University offers students a comprehensive education in global business practices combined with profound intercultural skills. Designed for aspiring professionals who wish to thrive in international environments, this program prepares students to understand diverse cultural contexts and to develop strategies for effective cross-cultural communication and management. Throughout the course, students acquire essential knowledge in areas such as international marketing, global logistics, cross-border finance, and strategic management, complemented by a solid foundation in intercultural studies, language skills, and intercultural communication techniques. The program emphasizes experiential learning, including case studies, project work, internships, and exchange semesters, allowing students to gain practical insights into international business operations and intercultural dynamics. Graduates of IBIS are equipped to work in multinational corporations, international organizations, consultancy firms, and start-ups with a global focus, confidently navigating intercultural differences and fostering international cooperation. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, adaptability, and intercultural competence, making graduates valuable assets in today’s interconnected economy. Moreover, close cooperation with industry partners and international universities ensures that students stay current with global trends and industry demands. With a strong focus on practical application and intercultural understanding, the IBIS program prepares students not only for successful careers but also for active engagement in cross-cultural exchange and international collaboration. The program typically includes coursework in business law, international trade, intercultural communication, and foreign languages, enabling students to develop a well-rounded profile suited for the international marketplace. Graduates are also encouraged to participate in semester exchanges and internships abroad, further enhancing their intercultural skills and global networking possibilities. Upon completion, students are awarded a recognized degree that opens doors to diverse careers worldwide, emphasizing the importance of intercultural competence in today’s globalized business environment.
Educational organisation
- First and second semesters: foundation year - introduction to general management issues and the culture of the Arabic World or Hispanic World, increased exposure to foreign business languages such as English and the elective language Arabic/French/Spanish
- Third and fourth semesters: advanced studies in International Business and Intercultural Studies, including two business electives (possible business electives are Accounting & Controlling, Finance, Human Resource Management, International Management, and International Marketing)
- Fifth semester: internship semester
- Sixth and seventh semesters: advanced business electives, intercultural studies, projects such as "International Management Project" ending with the Bachelor's thesis
Heilbronn University has a number of partnerships with universities worldwide, e.g. in Egypt, Syria, England, Spain, France, the USA, Australia, Finland, etc. This cooperation network highlights the international component of the programme and provides the opportunity to complete at least one integrated study semester at one of universities worldwide. There is also the possibility to attain a double degree.
Study abroad unit(s)
Students are encouraged to spend a semester or year abroad during their study programme. Heilbronn University has a worldwide network of partner universities, e.g. in Europe, the USA and Australia, with the option to also study in Arabic or Hispanic countries. Whether it be an internship abroad or an academic semester at a foreign university, going abroad for at least one semester is strongly recommended.Internships
An internship semester at least of 26 weeks is to be completed in the fifth semester. The internship office will assist students in finding an appropriate internship.Forms of assessment
Students are assessed in the middle and at the end of each semester on the basis of graded assignments, oral and written examinations.Course objectives
Studies and practical exercises in international business transactions, regional features and intercultural communication allow students to develop skills in cross-cultural negotiation and international business approaches.Language requirements
German (DSH or Test DaF), English (without a test)Important to note: the first year of study is held entirely in German. For this reason, it is important to have knowledge of German at the time of application. The subsequent years of study are instructed almost entirely in English. Therefore, the applicants must provide proof of their German language skills. DSH-2 or DSH-3 or TestDaF 4 is required for admission.
In addition, knowledge of Arabic, French or Spanish would increase chances of admission.
Required DSH / TestDaF
YesAcademic requirements
Abitur or secondary school leaving certificateEnrolment fees
All students have to pay an enrolment fee of approx. 130 EUR per semester. This includes an administration fee of 60 EUR, a social contribution for the student services of 54 EUR (a contribution to cover the costs for the student facilities like the "Mensa", cafeteria, student halls of residence, and a contribution towards the "Semesterticket"/transport pass) and a contribution to the "constituted student union" of 14 EUR.Costs of living
The cost of living for a student is about 800 EUR per month.Job opportunities
Tutorials at Heilbronn UniversityEmployment in companies in the Heilbronn region
Funding opportunities within the university
Applicants and enrolled students of Heilbronn University can apply for the "Deutschlandstipendium". "Deutschlandstipendium" students are awarded 300 EUR per month.http://www.hs-heilbronn.de/germany-scholarship
Currency
EUR
GBP
KZT
INR
RUB