The Master of Arts in International Business and Economics is a two-year research-based quality programme with a strong international focus. The programme reflects the idea to provide students with a truly international approach in a unique programme and to prepare them for a successful professional career in business or for their subsequent research. Located in a historic city almost in the geographical center of Germany, the programme aims at an international group of students and expects more than two-thirds of master students to have an international background and to come from different countries. A modern campus building with state-of-the-art technology, a high level of interaction between students and faculty members, and small groups of students working together provide a unique learning environment.
The program is structured over four semesters (24 months). The first two semesters take place in Schmalkalden, where students participate in an international seminar designed to prepare them for the semester abroad. The third semester can be studied either in Schmalkalden or at one of the partner universities on five continents. During the fourth semester, students write their master thesis (22 weeks) - in either English or German. All courses are held in English, and German language proficiency is not required. The program covers subject areas including: management (digital marketing, international human resources management, automotive technology management), accounting and finance (with focus on digitalization, behavior-oriented decisions, and sustainability), economics (from labor economics to industrial economics and environmental economics), and philosophy (philosophy of economics, philosophy of science, and political philosophy). A total of 120 ECTS credits are earned throughout the program. For the best students, a dual degree is also possible - either a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a Master of Science (MSc).
Master
English
Law & Economics
International Business and Economics
Master of Arts (M.A.)
Hochschule Schmalkalden
Location: Schmalkalden
About the Program
▶ Show the original English text
The Master of Arts in International Business and Economics is a two-year research-based quality programme with a strong international focus. The programme reflects the idea to provide students with a truly international approach in a unique programme and to prepare them for a successful professional career in business or for their subsequent research. Located in a historic city almost in the geographical center of Germany, the programme aims at an international group of students and expects more than two-thirds of master students to have an international background and to come from different countries. A modern campus building with state-of-the-art technology, a high level of interaction between students and faculty members, and small groups of students working together provide a unique learning environment.
The program is structured over four semesters (24 months). The first two semesters take place in Schmalkalden, where students participate in an international seminar designed to prepare them for the semester abroad. The third semester can be studied either in Schmalkalden or at one of the partner universities on five continents. During the fourth semester, students write their master thesis (22 weeks) - in either English or German. All courses are held in English, and German language proficiency is not required. The program covers subject areas including: management (digital marketing, international human resources management, automotive technology management), accounting and finance (with focus on digitalization, behavior-oriented decisions, and sustainability), economics (from labor economics to industrial economics and environmental economics), and philosophy (philosophy of economics, philosophy of science, and political philosophy). A total of 120 ECTS credits are earned throughout the program. For the best students, a dual degree is also possible - either a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a Master of Science (MSc).
The program is structured over four semesters (24 months). The first two semesters take place in Schmalkalden, where students participate in an international seminar designed to prepare them for the semester abroad. The third semester can be studied either in Schmalkalden or at one of the partner universities on five continents. During the fourth semester, students write their master thesis (22 weeks) - in either English or German. All courses are held in English, and German language proficiency is not required. The program covers subject areas including: management (digital marketing, international human resources management, automotive technology management), accounting and finance (with focus on digitalization, behavior-oriented decisions, and sustainability), economics (from labor economics to industrial economics and environmental economics), and philosophy (philosophy of economics, philosophy of science, and political philosophy). A total of 120 ECTS credits are earned throughout the program. For the best students, a dual degree is also possible - either a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a Master of Science (MSc).
Which Professions Does This Program Open Up?
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Economics
International Business
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How do I apply to International Business and Economics at Hochschule Schmalkalden?
Most international applicants apply via uni-assist (document verification + APS for some countries). Prepare your secondary/Bachelor diploma, transcripts, language certificate (DSH/TestDaF or IELTS/TOEFL), motivation letter and CV. Non-EU students also need a Sperrkonto (~11,904 EUR/year) for the visa.
- Check requirements — Verify your degree is recognised + meet language/grade thresholds.
- Get language certificate — TestDaF / DSH for German programmes, IELTS / TOEFL for English.
- Submit via uni-assist (non-EU) — Document review + APS if your country requires it (China, India, Pakistan, Vietnam, etc.).
- Apply directly or via uni portal — Some universities accept direct applications — check the official programme page.
- Open Sperrkonto + apply for visa — After admission, deposit 11,904 EUR, get health insurance, book embassy appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about International Business and Economics at Hochschule Schmalkalden
Is International Business and Economics at Hochschule Schmalkalden taught in German or English? ▼
This Master programme is taught in English. Make sure to check the language requirements (e.g. TestDaF, DSH, IELTS or TOEFL) before applying.
How much does the International Business and Economics programme cost? ▼
No tuition fee (only semester contribution). International students should also budget around 800–1000 EUR/month for living costs in Germany.
What are the admission requirements for International Business and Economics at Hochschule Schmalkalden? ▼
Typical requirements include: a recognised secondary/undergraduate degree, proof of language proficiency (English), and (for non-EU applicants) a uni-assist application plus financial proof (Sperrkonto ~11.904 EUR/year).
When is the application deadline? ▼
Application deadlines vary: winter semester usually closes on 15 July, summer semester on 15 January. Always confirm the exact deadline on the official university website.
Can I work in Germany while studying International Business and Economics? ▼
Yes. International students may work up to 140 full days / 280 half days per year without additional permission. After graduation you can apply for an 18-month job-seeker permit.
How do I apply to Hochschule Schmalkalden — directly or via uni-assist? ▼
Most German universities accept international applications through uni-assist for document verification. Some unis accept direct applications — check the programme page on the official site.