International Wine Business (IWB)

Study mode:On campus Study type:Full-time Languages: English
Deadline: Aug 15, 2024
StudyQA ranking:6660 Duration:6 semestrs

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The Bachelor's programme International Wine Business (IWB) at Hochschule Geisenheim University is a six semester, interdisciplinary programme combining theory-based education in the areas of business economics, viticulture and oenology with the practice-oriented applications of these topics in seminars and case studies.
The primary objective of this Bachelor's programme is to 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 - before and during the programme - help students to develop and excel in competences and skills that will form the basis for their future careers.
Our English-language study programme is based on our very successful German-language Bachelor's programme "Internationale Weinwirtschaft". Over the ten years of its existence, it has become clear that its success is rooted in two main areas: on the one hand, students are offered intensive courses in "Viticulture and Oenology", and on the other hand in "Business Economics". For our English-language programme, it is clear that these two areas should also be covered.
In the context of "Viticulture and Oenology", students must attend classes and practical exercises in wine chemistry, sensory courses, oenology, and viticulture. In the context of "Business Economics", we will focus on international markets and marketing, including classes in general marketing, wine marketing, general business administration, management, accounting, and economics. In special marketing projects on Northern Europe, France, Southern Europe (e.g. Italy, Spain) as well as on Asia and the New World, students have to apply their general knowledge in marketing and management cases, which are often conducted together with companies or institutions from the international wine business.
In a global world, a good knowledge of languages is required, making language courses an integral part of the programme. Students attend several English courses, and can also choose courses in other languages. In order for students to achieve a better understanding of German culture, German courses are obligatory.

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
In the second year the focus of the programme shifts to combine theory-based education with practice-oriented applications. The second year includes the following modules:
  • Controlling
  • Business Management
  • Wine and Beverage Marketing
  • Marketing project France
  • Marketing Project Consumer Markets
  • Project Southern Europe
  • Wine Evaluation
  • Viticulture
  • Oenology
  • Microbiology
The third year starts with a compulsory internship. The programme then focuses mainly on practice-oriented applications. Modules include:
  • 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 thesis
For 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 expenses

Job opportunities

Part-time jobs in wineries, office jobs, student assistants - depending on knowledge and skills

Arrival 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.

Accommodation

Accommodation is available on the private market - the International Office at Hochschule Geisenheim University will assist students in finding accommodation (rent approx. 250-300 EUR per month). Private accommodation can be found on our accommodation platform: https://www.facebook.com/groups/992437727457169/?fref=ts or at http://www.studenten-wg.de.
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