Automobilwirtschaft, Automotive Management (weiterführend)

The study program takes place at universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen). Learning locations at the university include lecture halls, seminar and exercise rooms, libraries, and computer labs. At home, students prepare for and follow up on courses, complete assignments, and potentially participate in online lectures.

The standard duration of study is 2-4 semesters.

Study costs include enrollment and administration fees, as well as semester contributions (e.g., for student services, student body, semester ticket). Depending on the institution, tuition fees may apply for 'long-term students,' those pursuing a second degree, or after exhausting a set study credit. Expenses for learning materials and study needs, such as specialized literature and excursions, are also incurred. Contributions for student health insurance (typically when exceeding the age limit of 25 or certain income limits) are also part of the costs. Information on funding opportunities can be found from the German National Association for Student Affairs (Deutsches Studierendenwerk) and the Federal Education Assistance Act (Bundesausbildungsförderungsgesetz - BAföG).

Modules may include change management in a global context, controlling, digitalization of the automobile and its environment, electromobility and alternative drive concepts, development and production management, financial and mobility services, management in the supplier industry, marketing and sales, innovation management of mobility services, process and IT management, retail and aftersales management, strategy development and implementation, corporate ethics, and sustainability. Practical study content may vary by university and include internships or practical semesters (e.g., at an automobile manufacturer).

Universities may conduct aptitude tests or selection interviews.

Students should be prepared for the following conditions and requirements: Lectures and seminars are attended in lecture halls and seminar rooms during the semester; online courses may be taken from home. For part-time studies, students work during the day on weekdays and attend university in the evenings or on weekends. Practical exercises include, for example, deepening English language skills in a language lab. Independent work involves preparing for and following up on courses, researching in libraries, preparing presentations, and completing assignments (also during lecture-free periods). Scientific research skills should be deepened. Students are responsible for planning their studies, adhering to given study periods, and completing study and examination requirements on time (self-discipline and organizational talent are required). Career preparation may include completing internships (e.g., with automobile manufacturers).

Students can complete parts of their studies abroad. For example, there is an international master's program 'Automotive Mobility Management' in Australia. This program is offered by Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt and the University of the Sunshine Coast, leading to a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree and a double degree. For more information, please refer to the double degree program at Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt.

The following fields of study can be alternatives for Automotive Economics, Automotive Management (advanced): Management and Corporate Leadership, Transport Business Administration (advanced), Corporate Management, Management (advanced), Business Administration, Business Administration (advanced), Management Consulting (advanced), Commercial Business Administration (advanced), International Economics (advanced), Logistics, Supply-Chain-Management (advanced), Economic Sciences (advanced). Common aspects include acquiring business knowledge and planning, organizing, calculating, and implementing entrepreneurial decisions.

Universities typically require the following undergraduate degrees: Automotive Economics, Automotive Management (undergraduate), Business Administration, Business Administration (undergraduate), Industrial Business Administration (undergraduate), Automotive Engineering (undergraduate).

Additional and key qualifications facilitate a successful career entry. For example, topics such as Business Administration, Organizational Management, and Management Competence are relevant. Internships, for instance with an automotive manufacturer, specifically prepare students for professional life. Opportunities to acquire additional and key qualifications can be found at the Career Centers of universities (see contact details of the respective university) and through the university search of the Hochschulkompass for universities in Germany.

This advanced field of study deepens knowledge from an undergraduate degree and, if applicable, professional experience. The study leads to a second university degree. This field of study is also available as a dual study program (duales Studium) or a part-time study program (Teilzeitstudiengang).

Examples: Automotive and Mobility Business (Master), Automotive Management (Master).

Master's graduates in Automotive Economics and Management can find various career opportunities in the private sector, such as purchasing, procurement, sales, or management. Those aiming for an academic career at a university typically need to pursue a doctorate. A doctorate may also facilitate access to higher professional positions in the private sector and research.

The 19th century saw the beginning of serial car production by Carl Benz and the first mass production by Henry Ford, leading to increased technical and business complexity in the automotive industry. In 1995, the first independent study program was established, followed by more programs in the 20th century. The Bologna Process, starting in 1999, aimed to create a unified European higher education area, harmonize study programs and degrees (introducing Bachelor's and Master's), and improve student and faculty mobility.

Graduation degrees, depending on the study program, can be Master of Arts (M.A.) or Master of Science (M.Sc.).

No remuneration is received during the study period. However, compensation can be agreed upon for practical phases or internships.

Legal regulations for studies are determined at the federal level by the Higher Education Framework Act (HRG) and inter-state structural guidelines. At the state (Bundesland) level, higher education laws and administrative regulations, for example, on the accreditation of study programs, apply. At the university level, the university's statutes and the study and examination regulations for the respective programs are relevant.

The prerequisite for studying is a first professionally qualifying university degree; typically, an undergraduate degree in Automotive Economics or Automotive Management is required. For continuing education programs, at least one year of professional experience is necessary. Depending on the university, an internal selection process may occur, with criteria such as performance in the first professionally qualifying degree. For dual study programs, an internship or employment contract with a suitable company (a 'Praxispartner') is usually required. Proof of English language skills may also be requested.