DID YOU KNOW?
In the current CHE University Ranking 2023/24, Munich Business School mainly achieves above-average ratings in all ranking categories.
A business consultant or consultant is a professional who advises companies and helps them with various business challenges. These consultants analyze business processes, develop strategies to increase efficiency, offer solutions to specific problems and assist companies with change processes. They can work in a variety of fields, including management, finance, marketing, human resources and more. The tasks of a business consultant can range from identifying opportunities to increase efficiency to implementing new business models to make companies more competitive.
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The tasks of a business consultant can be diverse and often depend on the specific industry, specialty and needs of the client. Here are some of the typical tasks you can expect if you want to become a business consultant:
Analyzing Business Processes
A management consultant analyzes a company's current business processes, identifies weaknesses and looks for ways to increase efficiency.
Risk Management
Identifying and assessing risks and developing strategies to minimize them.
Training and Development
Consultants can provide training for employees to improve their skills and ensure that the company has the necessary know-how.
Organizational Development
They help to design effective organizational structures and support the optimization of team processes and communication.
Market Research
Consultants conduct market research to gather information about the industry, competitors and customers to make informed strategic decisions.
Change Management
Management consultants support companies in change processes, be it the introduction of new technologies, restructuring or mergers.
Cost Management
Helping to identify opportunities to reduce costs and increase efficiency.
Strategy Development
Consultants help companies develop and implement business strategies to improve their competitiveness and achieve long-term goals.
Financial Consulting
Consultants can help improve a company's financial performance by conducting financial analyses, preparing budgets and developing cost management strategies.
Technology Implementation
Consultants assist in the selection and implementation of technologies that can increase operational efficiency.
The role of a management consultant usually requires a high level of analytical ability, problem-solving skills, expertise in different business areas and the ability to communicate effectively with clients and employees at different hierarchical levels. It is important to note that management consultants often work on a project basis and collaborate with different companies to fulfill their specific requirements. Therefore, you can expect these tasks if you want to become a management consultant.
The following diagram shows that International Business Management and Development is the No. 1 focus of the MBS Bachelor International Business program, with the best career opportunities.
Special features of the
business consultant profession
| Project-based work | Business consultants usually work on a project basis. They are hired by companies for specific tasks or projects. This can range from the development of a strategy to the optimization of business processes and the implementation of new technologies. The project-based nature of the profession leads to a constant change of tasks and challenges. |
|---|---|
| External perspective | Business consultants bring an external perspective to the organizations they work for. This external perspective allows them to identify existing problems, propose innovative solutions and bring in best practices from other industries or companies. |
| Expertise and specialization | Many business consultants have specialized in certain areas or industries, such as finance, information technology, human resources or business strategy. This specialization allows them to develop in-depth expertise in a particular area and to target the needs of their clients. |
| Flexibility and adaptability | Business consultants must be flexible and able to adapt quickly to new work environments, corporate cultures and industries. The ability to adapt is crucial in order to deal effectively with different clients and their specific requirements. |
| Customer orientation | The success of a business consultant depends heavily on the ability to understand customers, analyze their needs and offer tailor-made solutions. Customer orientation and the ability to communicate effectively with different personalities and hierarchical levels are therefore of great importance. |
| Short-term collaboration | Collaboration between business consultants and their clients can be of short duration, especially for certain projects. This requires an efficient way of working and the ability to deliver results quickly. |
| Consulting firms and self-employment | Many business consultants work for specialized consulting firms, while others work as independent consultants or freelancers. The choice between working for a consulting firm or self-employment offers different advantages and disadvantages. |
The profession of business consultant is characterized by several features that set it apart from other professions. These are just some of the salient features that can help you decide whether you really want to become a business consultant. The special features of the management consulting profession make it a challenging but also exciting career choice for those who like to think analytically, learn quickly and work in a dynamic environment. With this knowledge, you can become an informed business consultant.
In order to study business consulting, there are some requirements and qualities that can be helpful. It is important to note that the exact requirements may vary depending on the company and consulting field. A college degree is often preferred, but some companies also consider individuals with relevant work experience and expertise. Here are some important aspects you should consider:
In Germany, there are various degree programs that prepare students for a career in business consulting. Here are some typical courses that you can take at both Bachelor's and Master's level:
It is important to note that many consultants also develop industry-specific expertise, depending on the industries in which they work. Therefore, the choice of degree program may also depend on the preferred industry.
At Munich Business School, you can study International Business in the Bachelor's program with a focus on business consultants. This gives you the perfect mix of Business Studies knowledge and consulting experience to shape your future according to your own ideas. These are the most important facts about studying at MBS:
6 Semesters + Bachelor Thesis
Bachelor of Arts, 210 ECTS
Annually in February and September
Bachelor International Business
German/English
995 EUR per Month
In presence at the campus in Munich
International Focus, Business Project & selectable Specializations
6 Focal Points including International Governance and Business Development
What you will learn in
Business Consultant Studies
| Business Fundamentals | Understanding of business concepts, financial accounting, marketing, Human Resource Management and corporate governance. |
|---|---|
| Strategic Management | Analyzing business strategies, developing strategic plans and implementing strategic change. |
| Organizational Development | Examining organizational structures, processes and cultures to make effective changes and optimizations. |
| Project Management | Planning, implementation and control of projects, including time management, resource allocation and risk assessment. |
| Process Optimization | Identifying and improving business processes to increase efficiency and performance. |
| Communication and Presentation Skills | Developing skills to communicate clearly and present results convincingly to clients. |
| Technology Skills | Utilizing information technology and data analysis tools for informed decision-making. |
| Industry Knowledge | Understanding of specific industries and market conditions to provide customized consulting services. |
| Change Management | Methods to successfully implement change processes in organizations to enable positive transformations. |
| International Perspective | Consideration of global economic contexts and cultural differences for advising multinational companies. |
The exact course content may vary depending on the degree program and university. Practical experience, case studies and project work are often an integral part of the course to encourage the application of theoretical concepts in real business situations.
Studying Business Studies with a focus on Business Consultancy provides a broader and more grounded foundation in the field of business studies, beyond the specific aspects of business consultancy. Here are some reasons why it can be beneficial to study Business Studies with a focus on Business Consultancy:
Overall, a Business Studies degree with a major in Business Consultant provides a solid foundation for a successful career that is not limited to the consulting industry, but also opens up broader opportunities in business leadership and management.
Munich Business School not only offers you a degree in Business Studies, but also focuses on international business. This gives you the perfect foundation to pursue your chosen profession anywhere in the world after graduation. The Bachelor International Business at MBS offers many highlights such as semesters abroad, internships, business projects, plenty of opportunities for networking and much more. At Munich Business School, you can expect small study groups, dedicated teachers and award-winning programs. But even more importantly, we value you as a person. Here, you are not an anonymous member, but the driving force that motivates us every morning. We take time to listen to your concerns and offer you a tailor-made study experience thanks to our status as a small, private university. Our lecturers have extensive practical experience and teach you skills that really count. In addition to sound business knowledge, we also promote values and skills that will give you an understanding of sustainability and social responsibility as a future business consultant and prepare you optimally for a wide range of professions.
MBS offers students a number of advantages that are only possible thanks to its status as a private University of Applied Sciences. You will benefit from this during your studies at MBS:
Small class sizes & further educational opportunities such as the Pre-Bachelor Program
Professors with Experience in Business & Specialists as Guest Lecturers
Finance and Management
Broad Business Studies & specialized Knowledge through focal points
Partner Universities all over the world & many Networking Opportunities
The process and degree of Business Consultant Studies can vary depending on the program and university. However, here is a general description:
The International Business Bachelor program at MBS is not only much more than just learning specialist knowledge, but also a forward-looking program. If you want to look at international business management in a holistic context, then you've come to the right place. During your Bachelor of Arts in International Business, our lecturers will support you in becoming a responsible business person who not only has professional competence, but also essential soft skills, a broad cultural understanding and a strong personality.
Our Bachelor in International Business is characterized by its compact structure. It comprises six to seven semesters of study and concludes with a Bachelor's thesis. During your studies, you will complete at least three internships both in Germany and abroad and spend one or two semesters abroad to put your theoretical knowledge into practice and expand your international network.
You can study this program either bilingually in the Bilingual Track (70% German/30% English) or completely in English in the English Track (100% English) to prepare you for global challenges.
We firmly believe that success will only be achieved by those who see international business and management in a holistic context, taking into account social developments, political, historical and global contexts.
The studies at MBS focus on the international market. A large part of the course content is taught in English and MBS students come from all over the world.
Internationality is also expressed through the semester abroad. Students spend the last semester at one of our more than 60 partner universities around the world.
Students work on a business project for a real company. In doing so, they apply the theoretical knowledge gained during their studies in practical applications.
The following diagram shows all the specializations you can choose in the Bachelor International Business degree program at Munich Business School. This includes the business consultant, which is called International Governance and Business Development.
The focus of this specialization is the investigation of a comprehensive, integrated approach to entrepreneurial activity. This includes the management and monitoring of corporate processes as well as the management of risks and the design of target, monitoring and control systems. The focus includes the analysis of business processes, audits and revisions in companies, taking into account not only corporate groups but also the specific challenges of corporate management in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and hidden champions.
This choice of focus opens up a wide range of career prospects in an increasingly complex corporate environment:
Expertise in corporate management and development is particularly valuable in times of rapid corporate decisions and complex risk assessments and offers excellent opportunities for entry and further development in corporations, SMEs as well as in business consultants and auditing and tax consulting firms.
If you have any further questions or need more information, please feel free to contact our student advisory service.
DID YOU KNOW?
The MBS Blog offers some interviews and testimonials from alumni who are now working as consultants in large and well-known companies.
E.G.: In-House Consulting at Allianz: An Evening With Stefan Schnichels
Application
In order to qualify for admission to the business administration and bachelor studies at Munich Business School, you must first meet certain requirements regarding previous schooling and language skills. MBS offers several application rounds and recommends that you submit your application early as the number of places is limited.
There are three admission pathways to the Bachelor’s program at Munich Business School:
Munich Business School also offers a Pre-Bachelor program in International Business as the ideal preparation for bachelor’s-level study.
English Proficiency
Applicants for the Bilingual Track must proof their English language skills by passing one of the following language tests:
Note: If the test is also used to apply for a visa, please check the requirements of the respective embassy in advance.
Test results can only be accepted if achieved within the last two years. If you are unable to obtain your test results before handing in your MBS application, please advise us of your planned test date.
The English proficiency test can be waived by applicants having completed their schooling in English (i.e. US High School Diploma, IB Diploma).
English Proficiency
If you apply for the English Track, you must proof your English language skills by passing one of the following language tests:
Note: If the test is also used to apply for a visa, please check the requirements of the respective embassy in advance.
Test results can only be accepted if achieved within the last two years. If you are unable to obtain your test results before handing in your MBS application, please advise us of your planned test date.
The English proficiency test can be waived by applicants having completed their schooling in English (i.e. US High School Diploma, IB Diploma).
You would like to change university and continue your studies at Munich Business School? We offer Bachelor students the possibility of a transfer to the 2nd or 3rd semester. Previous knowledge in the fields of business administration and management, business law, accounting, mathematics and economics is required. Equivalent study and examination achievements, which have been acquired in an economics program in the basic studies, are counted towards the first two semesters of the bachelor's program at MBS up to a total of 60 ECTS.
Pre-Check of your academic achievements
For a non-binding pre-check of your academic achievements, please submit your curriculum vitae, an official grade confirmation as well as the official module descriptions of the courses you have already completed (with details on ECTS number per course, learning content, number of hours, type of final achievement and learning outcomes). The administrative fee for the Pre-Check is 60 euros. In case of a subsequent application to MBS, the application fee is waived.
Admission requirements
Application deadlines for transfer students
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact our student advisory service.
Application Documents
Online Application
Application Fee
Please transfer the application fee of 60 Euro to:
Munich Business School GmbH
Account 1020132229
Deutsche Kreditbank (Bank Code 120 300 00)
BIC: BYLADEM1001
IBAN: DE23120300001020132229
or via PayPal: paypal@munich-business-school.de
Application Rounds
Upon receipt of the application fee, the Admission Office checks your documents and invites you to a personal interview. You will receive your feedback within three days. Since the number of study places is limited, we recommend an early application. Your application is possible up to one year in advance. You will then submit your school leaving certificate and proof of English language skills by the start of your studies at the latest.
Scholarships
MBS offers partial scholarships to committed prospective students. In order to apply for one of the limited scholarships, please submit a personal statement with your application for a study place. In this statement you convincingly justify your interest in the scholarship program. You can find further information at Scholarships and Financing.
MBS offers application rounds on a monthly basis. You pick one round for your application.
The next application deadlines for a program start in 2024/2025:
Round May: Application deadline May 15 with personal interviews in May/June
Round June: Application deadline June 15 with personal interviews in June/July.
Round July: Application deadline July 15 with personal interviews in July/August.
Round October: Application deadline October 15 with personal interviews in October/November.
Round November: Application deadline November 15 with personal interviews in November/December.
Round December: Application deadline December 15 with personal interviews in December/January.
The personal interview (approx. 45 minutes) consists of three parts:
You will receive the results of the interview within one week. If you are accepted, the Admission Office will send you your personal study contract. The place of study is then reserved for three weeks. To secure your place of study, you return your signed contract to MBS by e-mail or mail and make a deposit.
Upon acceptance of the study place, you will be required to pay an enrollment fee of 690 Euro (for international students: 1,490 Euro) and a deposit of 1,990 Euro. The latter is offset against the payment installment of your semester fee.
If you are a Non-EU national, you are required to apply for a student visa in order to start your studies in Germany. To obtain a visa invitation letter from Munich Business School, please take the following steps:
1. Hand in your signed study contract and a copy of your passport details page.
2. Transfer the one-time enrollment fee and the deposit of 1,990 Euro. The deposit will be deducted from the first semester tuition installment.
Munich Business School offers attractive scholarships. These are 10 - 50% for the 1st and 2nd Bachelor semester. The application for one of the scholarships is made together with the application for a study place. Further information can be found under "Scholarships and financing".
The program is also aimed at pre-bachelor students.
The career and future prospects of a business consultant can depend on a number of factors, including the general state of the economy, the demand for consulting services, and the consultant's individual skills and specialization. It is important to note that job prospects can vary and that competition in the management consulting industry is often high. However, consultants who continually update their skills, adapt to new trends and have a broad network of contacts may have a better chance of succeeding in this career field. The key is often to continually educate yourself and be flexible to the changing business environment if you want to become a business consultant. Here are some considerations that can help you further if you want to become a business consultant:
Growth of the consulting industry: Demand for business consulting services may increase in times of economic uncertainty as companies look for ways to work more efficiently, adapt and remain competitive.
Self-employment and freelancing: Some consultants are opting for self-employment or freelancing to have more flexibility and offer their services to different clients.
Technological changes: The ongoing digitalization and technological changes may increase the demand for consulting in areas such as digital transformation, IT strategy and data security.
Sustainability and ethics: With a growing focus on sustainability and ethical business conduct, consultants specializing in these topics may become more in demand.
Skills and qualifications: Consultants with broad skills, including strategic planning, change management, analytical skills, and excellent communication, may be better positioned to address diverse needs.
Globalization: As the economy becomes more globalized, companies may increasingly rely on business consultants to develop international strategies and prepare for cross-border business activities.
Industry specialization: Consultants who specialize in specific industries may have better opportunities as they can provide in-depth expertise and understanding of the specific challenges and trends in an industry.
"I think that anyone who is planning to study Business Studies should consider coming to MBS. You learn in a much more practice-oriented way and are also taught a lot about real processes in companies and the skills you need for them."
Joshua on StudyCHECK
The salary of a business consultant varies widely and is influenced by several factors, including experience, education level, industry, company size and geographic location. Here are some rough averages:
It is important to note that these figures are general estimates and individual salaries may vary. Additional benefits such as bonuses, company cars, company pension schemes and other benefits also play a role in total remuneration.
The Munich Business School in Numbers
There are various career opportunities available in the field of business consulting. Depending on your career choice, further specializations in Business Studies can be helpful in order to be optimally prepared. These professions can be practiced in various industries and company sizes, both in internal consulting departments of large companies and in external consulting firms. The exact focus often depends on the individual expertise and interests of the consultant. Here are some typical professions that can be practiced in this field:
| Business Consultant | Business consultants analyze business processes, identify weaknesses and develop strategies for optimization. They often work in consulting firms and offer their services to external clients. |
|---|---|
| Strategy Consultant | This professional group focuses on the long-term orientation of companies. They help develop business strategies, growth plans and adapt to market changes. |
| Management Consultant | Management consultants support companies in improving their leadership and management practices. This can include the introduction of new organizational structures, leadership development and change management processes. |
| IT Consultant | IT consultants focus on the optimization of information technology systems. They advise companies on the selection, implementation and maintenance of software solutions to improve business processes. |
| HR Consultant | They help companies find qualified employees and optimize their HR strategies. This can include recruitment, employee development and workplace design. |
| Financial Advisor | These professionals assist companies with financial decisions, risk management and investment strategies. They may also be involved in the evaluation of mergers and acquisitions. |
| Organizational Consultant | Organizational consultants analyze the structures and processes of companies and recommend changes to increase efficiency and effectiveness. This can also include the introduction of new corporate cultures. |
| Change Manager | Change managers are specialized in planning and implementing change processes in companies. They help to prepare employees for change and make the transition smooth. |
The following professions not only offer the opportunity to delve deep into different business areas, but also allow you to have a direct influence on the success and development of companies. The constant development and adaptation to new challenges make them particularly demanding and at the same time interesting for people who like to creatively solve problems and drive change.
Tasks: Business consultants analyze business processes, identify efficiency improvements, develop strategies, implement change measures, analyze data and advise clients.
Why it's interesting: This profession offers the opportunity to work in different industries and companies, master a variety of challenges and actively contribute to improving business processes.
Tasks: IT consultants provide support in the selection and implementation of information technology systems, offer solutions to technological challenges, optimize processes and ensure the efficiency of the IT infrastructure.
Why it's interesting: The continuous development of technology makes this profession dynamic. IT consultants have the opportunity to develop innovative solutions and support companies in their digital transformation.
Tasks: Change managers plan and implement change processes in companies, carry out analyses of the organizational structure, develop communication strategies, offer training and support employees in adapting to new ways of working.
Why it's interesting: This profession makes it possible to actively contribute to the design of change processes and to help shape the positive development of companies. The versatility and social component make it particularly exciting.
DID YOU KNOW?
After an MBS Bachelor's or Master's degree, you can also take up all these professions abroad without any problems.
Becoming a business consultant offers many benefits, but it can also be challenging. Here are some pros and cons you should consider if you want to become a business consultant:
It's important to note if you're unsure whether you should become a business consultant that the pros and cons can vary depending on individual preferences, personality and lifestyle. Some people appreciate the challenges and variety of the job, while others may find the uncertainty and pressure stressful.
To become a business consultant, a degree in economics, management or a related discipline is often helpful. Typical courses of study can be Business Studies, Industrial Engineering, Business Management or Management. It is important that the chosen course provides a broad basis in business knowledge and also covers subjects such as strategy, organization, finance and marketing. Some prospective business consultants also opt for specialized degree programs that deepen their expertise in specific industries or subject areas. However, it is important to gain practical experience alongside your studies, for example through internships or projects, in order to develop the skills needed for a successful career as a business consultant.
Yes, it is possible to become a business consultant without a degree. Some business consultants also hire people without formal university degrees if they have relevant experience, expertise or industry-specific qualifications. In such cases, practical skills, work experience and a proven track record are often decisive. It should be noted, however, that many companies in the management consultancy sector prefer a university degree and often require relevant qualifications in job advertisements. However, a combination of relevant professional experience and further training can pave the way into the business consultant sector even without a degree.
To become a business consultant, the following steps are usually required:
It is important to take part in ongoing training and keep up to date with the latest industry trends. More on this in the text above.
As a business consultant, technical qualifications such as a business background and experience in the industry are crucial. Analytical skills, strong communication, teamwork and flexibility are also important. Many companies prefer a university degree, but relevant work experience can balance this requirement. A willingness to continuously learn and adapt to different business environments are other key requirements. You can find more information, as well as tips and tricks, further up in the text.
Yes, business consultant is a profession. Business consultants provide consulting services to organizations to solve problems, increase efficiency, develop strategies and implement change. This profession requires expertise in various business areas, analytical skills, communication skills and the ability to develop solutions to complex business challenges. More information above in the text.
