The export-oriented German economy, the challenges of a single European market, and the continuing global processes of economic integration all account for a radically changing outlook of doing business. For achieving and maintaining competitiveness, companies today require employees with expandable, specialized, intercultural knowledge, skills and competencies. In response to these changing demands, the International Business (IB) study program has evolved from a traditional course of business administration, supplementing a comprehensive program of business and economics studies with extensive language instruction and the acquisition of intercultural knowledge and expertise by means of real-life business case studies.

Prospective students of this programme will be expected to

• bring a clear affinity for business and commercial matters
• have an advanced proficiency of English
• demonstrate adequate logical and analytical thinking skills
• show an above-average level of motivation and commitment;develop integrative thinking skills
• work effectively in a team
• demonstrate open-mindedness and regional flexibility in approaching foreign cultures.

The languages of instruction are both German and English. The structure of this international study programme differs from other programs insofar as there is a stronger focus on knowledge-based instruction. In addition to English as the principal working language, students are further required to study another foreign language. The course titled “Intercultural Knowledge and Behaviour” spans all six semesters.

Broadly based course of business studies with specialized emphasis on marketing and sales, finance and accounting, supply chain management as well as human resource management and corporate management; specific focus on issues related to international business; students are expected to expand their knowledge of business and management principles and extend it to include an international perspective (e.g. refining their marketing expertise by way of an international and intercultural orientation) with special emphasis on studying a foreign language, scholarly examining culture-specific aspects from a knowledge and behavioural point of view, and gaining international experience, both academically and work-related. At the end of their studies, students will have acquired the necessary theoretical and practical background for international work assignments, i.e. for taking part in international projects and teams or working abroad. For further information, please consult also www.international-seminar.de

Participation in this study programme is recommended for all companies with international business operations. Those targeted are companies from the manufacturing sector and the financial sector, trading companies as well as public institutions.

After completing their course of study, students will be qualified to assume all relevant job functions in an international business setting. They will be able to carry out qualified administrative and processing tasks as well as project and initial management assignments.