International Business and Management (Bachelor)

We all live in a world of globalised markets. To compete successfully in these markets, enterprises of all sizes need employees who not only have a sound knowledge of business and management principles, but are also equipped for a multinational environment where intercultural and language competences are of paramount importance.

This need is met by this program, which combines business training with language skills and supports an international climate that enables future careers.

This programme is aimed at high school graduates who want to lay the right basics for an international career by

• Acquiring in-depth knowledge in the most important disciplines of business administration
• Specialisation in management
• studying exclusively in English and
• Acquire knowledge of a second language

You can start the International Business and Management study programme at any semester. We admit 40 applicants who are eligible for admission. Up to 50% of places are reserved for international applicants.

You are admitted to the study programme if you have a university entrance qualification. This includes a general university entrance qualification, a subject-restricted university entrance qualification entitling you to university studies at a university or university of applied sciences, a master craftsman's certificate or an equivalent professional qualification.

You must also have sufficient English skills to be able to understand lectures and subject content: Applicants must have English skills equivalent to at least level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. Students whose native language is English are released from this requirement.

German language skills are not required for this study programme. However, we strongly recommend that you have a basic knowledge of German or are willing to acquire German skills during your university studies. This will help you, for example, with your daily errands outside the university.

Information on language skills

The study programme is taught exclusively in English. Specialised courses enable you to improve your English skills. You will also acquire basic, business-orientated skills in another language. You can choose between French, Spanish and - if you are not a native German speaker - German. In the first four semesters, you will familiarise yourself with the most important disciplines of business administration and economics. This also includes language modules.

In the fifth semester you will gain experience abroad. You are welcome to study at one of our partner universities or at a university of your choice. Alternatively, you have the opportunity to complete an internship in another country. Back in Germany, the program focuses on specialisation in management, including a comprehensive case study in which you work on innovative projects. This experience, combined with a business simulation, involves a series of unique challenges that help you develop holistic management skills. The university studies conclude with a Bachelor's thesis.

Internships abroad

All students are required to complete an internship or spend a period of study abroad during the practical placements phase of their degree programme. The internationally oriented internship lasts six months and is completed in an enterprise or organisation in a country where a foreign language is spoken. Students are expected to work the normal hours of a full-time employee. If you need help finding an internship abroad, please contact Ms Martina Langsch (Internships).

Your work placement abroad will be supervised by a professor and will involve coursework and either a presentation or a report. You have fulfilled the internship requirements if the enterprise or organisation issues a certificate of internship and if you have submitted the required coursework and presentation/report on time. Details can be found in attachment 3 (work placement regulation(s)) of the examination regulations.

If you have any questions, please contact Ms Martina Langsch (Internships).

University studies abroad

The semester abroad is an integral part of the international business administration programme.

You can study at a partner university or find a university yourself. Alternatively, you can complete an internship abroad or in Germany (see above). Your period of study abroad offers you many opportunities to deepen your theoretical knowledge and strengthen your intercultural competence.

At the beginning of the second semester, you will receive basic information about the possibilities of a period of study abroad, e.g. where you can study and what funding and programs are available to you.The Department of Business maintains partnerships with universities in Europe, the USA and Australia. There are also established partnerships with Fulda University of Applied Sciences and the state of Hesse.

During your period of study abroad, you will earn at least 20 credit points by completing at least four modules in the Department of Business Administration.

Double degrees are possible as part of the study programme. Further information on this, Erasmus+ and international options can be found under this link.

If you have any questions about your period of study abroad, please contact the International Office team.

NOTE: The following information has been collected with great care, yet only the official documents are legally binding (e.g. admission regulations and the examination regulation).

1. Where can I find information about your Bachelor’s programme in International Business & Management (IBM)?

Most information is available on our university webpage: International Business Management B.Sc. www.hs-fulda.de/ibm. Here, you’ll find details about the programme’s profile, content, modules, instructors, and more.
The programme is fully taught in English and focuses on core business principles with specializations in management. Our curriculum covers various subjects, including International Management, Finance, Accounting, Entrepreneurship, Strategic Management, Marketing, Economics, Corporate Social Responsibility, Business Law, Digital Business, Supply Chain Management, Statistics, and Intercultural Communication. The programme typically lasts 7 semesters (3.5 years), including one semester abroad or a practical semester abroad.

2. What are the key features of your programme and makes your programme stand out?

Our programme is truly international, with all courses taught in English and additional business-oriented language courses of your choice in Spanish, French, or German. A semester abroad (e.g. at a partner university or through an internship), along with a diverse cohort of global peers, enhances your learning experience. Small class sizes from 20 to maximum 40 students and state-of-the-art learning environments with a great university campus offer personalized attention. Moreover, our university and the course content are committed to address real company issues, and our university offers numerous subsequent study options, including Master's and Ph.D. programmes.

3. Could you give me more information about your application process and documents?

Our application webpage, Apply, this is how it works details the application process, including deadlines and required documents, also for application with international certificates.
Please pay special attention to the section on language certificates, which includes a downloadable document outlining accepted certificates, required scores, and waivers. For further questions about applications and admissions, please contact our admission service in our student administration at horstl@hs-fulda.de.

    
4. What are the eligibility criteria for your programme?

Our programme has two main eligibility requirements: 1. An entrance qualification for German universities and 2. English language proficiency (level B2). The primary concern is whether your educational background qualifies for admission to business studies at German universities. This is assessed upon formal application submission only. Please consider that we do not offer any pre-checks from our side. Yet, you can conduct a first pre-check of your eligibility yourself by using the tool provided on our application webpage under the “University access” section.

5. I have already studied in a different programme. Can I transfer credits?

We accept applications for higher semesters. Detailed information is available at our webpage entering higher semesters .
Note that we will only consider transferring credits for modules taught in English. More information about the recognition.

6. Do you have information for applicants with potential visa delays?

As stated on our application webpage, we cannot defer admission due to visa delays. It is crucial to obtain your visa promptly and keep us informed of your visa status. It is your responsibility to arrive in time, limit late arrival and maintain enrolment. We do not offer online teaching, and many examinations require physical presence on campus. It is advisable to apply for your visa as early as possible. For VISA support, please also contact our International Office.

7. What are the costs for studying, housing and living in Fulda?

Our university is publicly funded, so we do not charge tuition fees. However, there is a regular administration fee (around 330€) that covers also student services and public transportation. As a result, we only offer a limited number of scholarships. Please note, in Germany universities are not responsible for housing. Housing costs vary, but Fulda is generally considered reasonable priced and more affordable compared to nearby cities like Frankfurt. For detailed information, visit the International Office webpage and explore the “Study in Fulda” section.

8. Is your programme offered online, on-campus, or in a hybrid format? What are student facilities like?

Our programme is offered exclusively on-campus with face-to-face teaching. Students benefit from modern learning environments, several well-equipped libraries and up-to-date computer labs. Our student support services are run by real humans and our campus eases bumping into your study peers. Additionally, the campus offers recreational activities, sports facilities, social clubs, and relaxing spaces like hammocks. Our pictures on our webpage are true-life, actually showing also real students, and are not generated by artificial intelligence, so let your views wander while exploring our webpage pictures.

9. How can I connect with your professors and university staff, and what is the student-to-faculty ratio in the IBM programme?

Our small class sizes from 20 to maximum 40 students ensure personalized attention. Besides the general accessibility via email Professors hold weekly in-person consultation hours. Our supporting staff has many contact opportunities as well, including open door consultation hours or dedicated email addresses (e.g. ibm@w.hs-fulda.de). This direct access fosters strong connections between students and faculty, enhancing the learning experience. Even before your study starts, you can join our information events like online info sessions, lecture lights, or Meet and Greet consultations.

10. What do lectures look like in the IBM programme?

Our instructors employ a variety of modern teaching methods, including case studies, debates, and simulations, as well as classical courses didactics and guest lectures by industry professionals. We also organize excursions and company visits. Our up-to-date online support system provides access to course materials and announcements. Assessment methods include written exams, oral presentations, group projects, and coursework to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of students' knowledge and skills.

11. What type of degree will I receive, and how is it recognized both nationally and internationally?

Upon successful completion of the IBM programme, you will gain the degree “Bachelor of Science”, which is highly recognized both nationally and internationally. The programme undergoes regular inspections and accreditation by reputable organizations, ensuring it meets high academic and professional standards. The title Bachelor of Science also represents the analytical focus of our programme, including its quantitative courses, and is a highly sought after qualification. In addition, Fulda's strong international partnerships, formal University cooperations and exchange programmes further enhance the global recognition of our degree, providing students with a robust and respected qualification.

12. What is the size and diversity of your student cohort?

Each semester, a maximum of 40 students are admitted to the IBM programme, leading to a total student body of approximately 250, with about 50% of students coming from abroad. This creates an international learning environment and fosters strong bonds among students. Please note: access to the programme is restricted and student enrolment is therefore limited.

13. How do I get familiar with German culture?

Our university offers a comprehensive support system, including an extensive orientation programme, cultural workshops, and language courses to improve your German skills. Social events, excursions, and networking opportunities help you connect with fellow students and immerse yourself in the local culture. The International Office provides ongoing support and practical information about living in Germany to ensure you feel welcomed and engaged. Moreover, the central location of Fulda in Germany allows you to reach famous cities like Berlin, Hamburg, or Munich by train within 3 hours, making it an ideal starting point to explore Germany.

 
14. What kind of support services are available to IBM students?

Our services start even before your study begins. Our International Office and the department offer exciting introduction activities like orientation week or a buddy-programme. Our university is certified for its family-friendliness and is committed to supporting students with disabilities through tailored solutions provided by the Office for Students with Disabilities and Chronic Illnesses. There are facilities for students with families on campus, for instance for emergency childcare. During your studies we invite you to enjoy various support services, including but not limited to academic advising language courses, mentoring programmes, and of course career counselling.

15. What are my career opportunities after graduating from the IBM programme?

Our graduates pursue a plethora of careers in national and international business, typically within multinational corporations or the German Mittelstand. The university’s strong connections with globally recognized organizations and hidden champions, along with regular company fairs, provide excellent networking opportunities and career prospects.

University entrance qualification,
English language proficiency level B2 (except for applicants with English as their mother tongue)

Winter semester
With German educational certificates: 15 April to 15 July; with foreign educational certificates: 1 March to 15 June

Summer semester
With German proof of education: 15 October to 15 January; with foreign proof of education: 1 September to 15 December