Master
International Business | Finance

Master International Business | Finance (M.A.)

By choosing our Master’s program in International Business | Finance, you’ll be making a sound investment in a promising professional future. It will open up countless career opportunities for you in the financial sector and in management. You could move into corporate consultancy, corporate finance, private equity, investment banking or business development, following in the footsteps of MBS alumni who have established themselves at international companies such as BMW, Allianz, EY, Deloitte and Goldman Sachs.

YOUR MASTER’S IN INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS | FINANCE AT MBS

This challenging Master’s program brings together the core competencies required in the worlds of business and finance. You will acquire a wide range of skills related to strategy and management along with others focused on the field of finance. You will gain sound, specialist knowledge of corporate valuation, corporate finance and international finance whilst also developing the key skills required to undertake crucial management duties. After completing the International Business | Finance program, you will be an expert in areas such as financial management, annual accounts analysis, mergers and acquisitions, risk management and capital markets.

Our teaching approach places a strong emphasis on practice-oriented education. During your studies, you will benefit from the wealth of experience shared by our MBS teaching staff, all of whom also remain active in the business world. Thanks to their first-hand business insights, their industry expertise and their overview of current research, they will help you to develop the skills you will need to solve complex business problems and make sound decisions in your career.

The integrated semester abroad, which you will spend at one of over 60 partner universities around the world, will allow you to further solidify your financial expertise and prepare yourself for specialist and management roles in international business. And, if you feel you would benefit from further experience abroad, you can choose to complete a second semester abroad – and secure two specialist Master’s degrees in two years, leaving nothing standing in the way of your career in the world of finance.

What you can expect in the Finance Master

Business project: Together with your classmates, you will complete a finance-related project for a real company, putting the knowledge you acquire in your studies into practice.

International focus: Each semester, you will choose an international focus and research the various markets, methods and specific economic areas particular to a given region, along with the impact of the region’s development on the global economy.

Studenten geben sich einen Handschlag

Key Facts
Master International Business | Finance

Program start date
September (new from 2024)
Teaching language
English
Duration: Single degree
18 months
Duration: Dual degree
24 months
Format
Full-time study
Scholarships and financing
Up to EUR 4,000 funding
Thesis language
German or English
Degree title
Master of Arts (M.A.)

“The Master’s in International Business I Finance Track is the perfect combination of management and finance. Our program focuses on conveying in-depth, specialist knowledge and business practices. With its high practical relevance and international orientation, the Master’s in International Business I Finance Track is a high-quality postgraduate program.”

Prof. Dr. Christian Schmidkonz, Academic Director, Master’s in International Business | Finance

CONCENTRATIONS ON THE MASTER’S PROGRAM

Corporate finance
Business valuation
International finance
Mergers and acquisitions
Annual account analysis
Risk management
Capital markets

Business Projects

In the business project, which spans two semesters, you will work with your classmates on a specific project on behalf of a company. These real-life cases are as varied as the companies that present them – from start-ups that need a strategy to enter a new target country to hidden champions from the region around Munich looking to create a brand awareness campaign. This project gives you the opportunity to apply and consolidate your newly acquired business knowledge in a small group of classmates. Each group is supervised and coached by an MBS professor throughout the project. It is not unusual for these business projects to result in firm job offers for groups of students, because the Munich region is one of the strongest economic regions anywhere in Germany – which is just one of the numerous benefits of studying business in Munich.

A selection of partner companies for business projects

WHAT OUR STUDENTS AND ALUMNI SAY ABOUT US

Johanna von Eben-Worlée
Johanna von Eben-Worlée

I was impressed by the intercultural experiences, practical relevance and the opportunity to network during my Master’s studies at MBS.

The program’s content and the people I met continue to support me to this day, both professionally and privately. Above all, the range of partner universities for semesters abroad and dual degrees is exceptional – for example, I was able to gain valuable, fascinating experiences in Shanghai at one of the best universities in China.

Bernhard Franz
Bernhard Franz

My Master’s in IB at MBS helped me to develop in many respects. I acquired both business expertise and practical knowledge.

MBS teaches students to adopt a purposeful approach in order to generate value for customers. It fundamentally changes my approach to business life and the direction of my professional career.

Kirti Mudgil
Kirti Mudgil

For me, MBS was like a home from home. Not only does it offer an open environment in which you can learn alongside people from different cultures, it also enables you to launch a promising business career.

From the orientation days through to my graduation and beyond, I was always able to rely on support from the professors and staff. The various events and careers programs were a highlight of my studies. I’m pleased and proud to be part of the MBS family.

Julia Lemberskiy
Julia Lemberskiy

The numerous practical projects, the renowned teaching staff, the knowledge I gained during my Master’s studies at MBS and my time at Stanford University helped me to advance my business career.

After graduating, I introduced and scaled new business segments around the world for Rocket Internet and Uber. I’m now the founder and managing director of a successful start-up, helping companies to scale their business processes and growth channels.

Ryan Stodden
Ryan Stodden

MBS offers an intercultural environment that is truly unique.

Not only do you encounter students and teaching staff from around the world, which allows you to build an international network, you also have the opportunity to collaborate on projects and find solutions together.

Anastacia Nosikova
Anastacia Nosikova

Many of the professors and teaching staff at MBS work at well-known companies or have a business of their own and a wealth of practical professional experience.

This naturally opens students up to numerous possibilities: on the one hand, the teaching staff share their knowledge, which allows you to gain a more accurate view of the theory; on the other hand, MBS has numerous corporate contacts that enable students to acquire insights into companies.

Ana Mestrovic
Ana Mestrovic

When it came to my Master’s studies, I was looking for a city that offered excellent job opportunities.

After some research, I came to the conclusion that Munich and MBS was the perfect choice. During my studies, I met a lot of people who became friends for life. I personally found my time at MBS was a wonderful experience.

Iuliia Tretiak
Iuliia Tretiak

I opted for MBS because it offers a wide range of courses and the opportunity to secure a dual degree.

I was able to further my education here, gain international experience and built a solid network for myself. What’s more, MBS is characterized by a very special community spirit.

STUDY CONTENT

Core modules

The core modules on the Master’s program convey general business knowledge. In specialist courses, such as International Management, Business Communication, Responsible Leadership and an international concentration of your choice, you will learn how economic correlations work in a globalized world. You will also learn how to consider and interpret social and cultural aspects when making entrepreneurial decisions. In this context, we encourage students to engage critically with different topic areas whilst also teaching practical methods and models.

The core models have an interdisciplinary structure, which will enable you to adopt a broad-minded approach to business. You will collaborate with students on other Master’s programs and exchange experiences in order to further your knowledge and skills. This will allow you to supplement your entrepreneurial toolkit with approaches and perspectives from students on different programs, such as Sports Business, International Marketing, and Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

Electives

Electives – courses you are free to choose between – are an opportunity to refine your profile and develop specific strengths. You can choose from an extensive pool of electives ranging from courses on financial topics like Capital Markets and Mergers and Acquisitions to courses in other fascinating topics areas, such as International Business Law, Communication Management and Success Factor Happiness – or, alternatively, you could work on a specific research project of your choice.

Semester 1

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS | FINANCE MODULES
3ECTS Corporate Finance I
3ECTS International Finance I
3ECTS Financial Statement Analysis
3ECTS International Service Marketing
3ECTS Business Project I
INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS & MANAGEMENT MODULES
6ECTS

International Business and Management

Sub-Modules:

International Strategic Management

Organizational Behavior

Conscious Business

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  • Learn about the drivers of globalization, related strategic models, and how to apply them in business operations.
  • Study the relationships between individual, organization, and society and reasons for behaviors in organizations.
  • Develop an understanding for alternative business practices compared to traditional profit orientation as the core goal of a business based on the four tenets of Conscious Capitalism as well as best practices in the field of Conscious Business.
3ECTS

International Focus

Choose 1 out of 3

  • Business in Germany
  • Business in Latin America
  • Business in China

Gain insights into business practices and current business topics in the chosen region based on an understanding of the social background as well as the economic and political system in the respective region.

3ECTS

Languages (Optional)

Choose 1 out of 3:

  • Spanish
  • Chinese
  • German

Depending on the level, learn the appropriate grammar and vocabulary skills to advance to the next level of language proficiency.

EXECUTIVE SKILLS
6ECTS

Communication in International Business

Sub-Modules:

Business Communication

Business Ethics

Negotiation Skills

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  • Identify and master the challenges of business communication particularly in an international and intercultural context.
  • Study and discuss topical and controversial business ethics issues as well as the philosophical origins of ethics.
  • Learn how to use effective communication skills as well as manage the human behavior dynamics in the negotiation process.
1ECTS

MBS Engagement

Feel a stronger sense of belonging to the MBS community by actively engaging in a variety of extracurricular offerings.

Semester 2

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS | FINANCE MODULES
6ECTS Corporate Finance II
6ECTS International Finance II
3ECTS Business Project II
6ECTS

2 Electives

such as: Mergers and Acquisitions, Capital Markets

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS & MANAGEMENT MODULE
3ECTS

International Focus

Choose 1 out of 5:

  • Business in Europe
  • Business in Latin America
  • Business in China
  • Business in USA and Canada
  • Business in Emerging Economies (India, Africa)

Use case studies, business simulations, in-depth reports as well as expert knowledge to understand the complexities of the business environment in the chosen region from a cultural, economic, social, political, and legal perspective.

3ECTS

Languages (Optional)

Choose 1 out of 3:

  • Spanish
  • Chinese
  • German

Depending on the level, learn the appropriate grammar and vocabulary skills to advance to the next level of language proficiency.

EXECUTIVE SKILLS MODULES
5ECTS

Responsible Leadership in a Global Context

Sub-Modules:

Responsible Leadership

Business & Society

Master Thesis Preparation

------------

  • Learn how to lead and manage people in business in a responsible way, including how to motivate and support people depending on the given circumstances, personality, and culture.
  • Get familiar with the origin and development of different cultural core beliefs, value systems and how they define business practices from a top management perspective.
  • Learn how to collect, evaluate, assess and present the state of the art in the academic discipline regarding a specific research question.
1ECTS

MBS Engagement

Feel a stronger sense of belonging to the MBS community by actively engaging in a variety of extracurricular offerings.

Semester 3

15ECTS

Semester Abroad

Students on the Master’s in International Business | Finance Track spend their third semester abroad at one of our numerous MBS partner universities. You will gain extensive international experience and develop your intercultural skills.

15ECTS

Master Thesis

Last but not least: writing your Master Thesis

INTERNATIONALITY

Studying at Munich Business School is an international experience because we not only teach internationality, we practice it. That’s why a semester abroad is an integral part of our programs. MBS maintains partnerships with over 60 universities around the world and is continuously expanding its international network. Our cooperations range from conventional programs, such as ERASMUS+ and other exchange programs, to over 20 dual-degree agreements with cooperating universities in Europe, Asia, Australia and the USA.
[Translate to Englisch:] MBS Dual Degree

Dual degree

In the optional dual degree format, you secure a second specialist Master’s degree from one of our partner universities. Munich Business School’s collaboration with renowned, international universities opens up the possibility of securing two separate Master’s degree within two years. If you choose the dual degree route, you will usually spend the first two semesters at MBS followed by two semesters at a partner university, before finishing your studies by writing your Master’s thesis.

MENTORING PROGRAM

You have the option of applying for our exclusive mentoring program. This connects you with a member of the MBS alumni community – someone with professional experience who will support and advise you when your studies get challenging, help you to achieve your career goals and enable you to make valuable contacts through access to their professional network.

You will receive more information about our mentoring program when you start your studies, with the opportunity to apply for one of the limited number of space by the end of September. The mentoring committee will make their decision in October, with the selected mentees meeting their mentors in November.

APPLICATION

You must meet certain academic, linguistic and, in some cases, professional requirements to be eligible for our Master’s program in International Business | Finance. You can submit your application documents at any time. However, given the limited number of spaces on our programs, we recommend applying well before your preferred start date.

Admission Requirements

Academic Requirements

The main requirement for admission to the Master International Business study program is a successful Bachelor's degree (180 ECTS or more). Applicants with a degree in Business Studies/Management/Economics are entitled to apply for the program directly, applicants without a degree in economics can qualify for the program by completing the Pre Master Program. Upon request, we will gladly verify your documents in advance. Please contact your Program Advisor.

Language Requirements

English Proficiency

Applicants must proof their English language skills by passing one of the following language tests:

  • TOEFL iBT & Home Edition: min. 85 (min. of 22 in writing band, min. of 20 in all other bands; MBS TOEFL Institution Code: 5772)
  • IELTS & IELTS Online: min. level of 6.5– Academic Module
  • ELS English for Academic Purposes: Advanced Level 112
  • Duolingo English Test: Overall Score 115 or higher
  • Pearson PTE Academic: Overall Score 56 or higher
  • Cambridge: Min. 173 or Grade B or higher

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 inform us about your planned test date.

The English proficiency test can be waived by the following candidates:

  • Applicants having completed their schooling in English (i.e., High School Diploma, IB)
  • Applicants having completed their first academic degree in English

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Full details of application deadlines

We accept applications all year round. However, we recommend applying as early as possible due to the limited number of places on our programs.

Spring semester (for admission to the Master’s in International Business only)

  • Application deadline for EU citizens (no visa required): December 10
  • Application deadline for non-EU citizens (visa required): October 31

Applicants from Vietnam, China or India should allow an extra month for the necessary visa application.

Fall semester

  • Application deadline for EU citizens (no visa required): July 15
  • Application deadline for non-EU citizens (visa required): April 15

Applicants from Vietnam, China or India should allow an extra month for the necessary visa application.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Step 1: Putting together your application

You must submit the following mandatory documents for us to consider your written application:

  • Answers to motivational questions (choice of questions provided during the online application process)
  • CV/résumé
  • Current passport-style photo (in color, with a light background)
  • A copy of your school-leaving certificate(s)*
  • A copy of your undergraduate degree certificate (incl. transcripts)*
  • Evidence of adequate English language skills (TOEFL, IELTS or ELS)
  • References (if available)
  • Completed application form
  • If you are interested in scholarship programs: personal cover letter (1 page) 

*Please submit the relevant original document, or a certified copy, as soon as you are accepted onto the program. 

Online application:
Apply online for the Master’s program in International Business

Step 2: Admission to the program

Eligible applicants will be invited to a personal interview, either in person in Munich or online via Microsoft Teams (approx. 30–45 minutes). The interview may include examining a case study.

As soon as you are accepted onto the program, you will have the opportunity to get to know Munich Business School a little better – before you make the final decision about your studies. And, of course, our student advisors will be available to answer any questions you have.

Step 3: Study Contract

When we confirm your place, we will send you confirmation of your acceptance along with two copies of your study contact. To secure your place, please sign and return one copy of the contract to us within two weeks. You can keep the other copy for your files.

Additionally, in order to be formally accepted onto the program, you must pay a one-off matriculation fee of €690 (EU/EFTA) or €1,490 (non-EU) and make an advance payment of €1.990. This advance payment will be deducted from your first tuition fee payment.

Step 4: Student Visa

If you are a non-EU citizen, you must apply for a student visa in order to start your studies in Germany. You will require a letter of invitation from Munich Business School to secure your visa – which we will be happy to provide once we receive your signed student contract and a copy of your passport.

More about student Visa

Scholarships

Munich Business School offers attractive scholarship programs amount up to EUR 4,000 of the overall tuition fee. (Up to EUR 2,000 on the 1st and 2nd master's semester).

If you wish to apply for a scholarship, you should include an application when you submit your overall application. You can find further information on our scholarships and financing page.

Fees

The quality of teaching and the training of sought-after professionals and managers is the focus at Munich Business School. By studying at MBS, you are making an investment in your future. This amounts to 24,900 euros. You can comfortably pay the tuition fees in three semesters or 18 monthly installments.

Depending on which partner university you would like to spend your semester abroad at or if you would like to do a dual degree, additional costs may apply.

In accordance with our university values, we are willing to offer first-class and motivated applicants a study place at Munich Business School - regardless of their economic background. There are many ways to finance your studies - scholarships, BAföG, education funds, etc. Get an overview of our scholarships as well as the 100% student funding with our partner Brain Capital and find the model that suits you best. You can find further information on our scholarships and financing page.

 

 

Fees on the Master’s program

Fee per month
EUR 1,383
Fees per semester
EUR 8,300
Total fees
EUR 24,900

Other Fees

Application Processing Fee
60 Euro
One-time Enrollment Fee (EU/EFTA)
690 Euro
One-time Enrollment Fee for international students
1,490 Euro

FAQS ABOUT THE FINANCE MASTER’S PROGRAM

Which country is the best place to study a Master’s in Finance?

Germany is an attractive destination for a Master’s in Finance – for several reasons:

  1. Excellent academic programs: Germany has a number of renowned universities and universities of applied sciences that offer outstanding finance programs. These programs are intentionally recognized and have a strong practical focus.
  2. Good career prospects: Germany has a strong economy and a solid banking system, which translates to excellent job prospects for graduates from our Master’s program in Finance. The German financial sector is well connected internationally, so there are also plenty of career opportunities abroad.
  3. High quality of life: German residents enjoy a high quality of life. Its cities are safe and clean, it has extensive public transport systems and there are a host of leisure opportunities.
  4. Internationality: Germany is a multicultural country with plenty of international students. This makes it easier to integrate into the country and its culture while also building an international network.

In summary, Germany offers an outstanding environment to study a Master’s in Finance, including brilliant academic programs, good career prospects, a high quality of life and internationality.

What are the potential benefits of a Master’s program in Finance?

A Master’s program in Finance offers a number of benefits and career opportunities. Here are a few of the most important:

  • Specialist knowledge: A Master’s program in Finance allows you to gain extensive expertise in the field of finance, which usually includes financial analysis, risk management, investment banking, company finance and other areas.
  • Career opportunities: A Master’s program in Finance opens up wide-ranging career opportunities for you. Would you like to start a career in investment banking, in financial analysis, in portfolio management or in corporate finance?
  • Higher salary: Graduates with a Master’s degree in Finance generally have higher earnings than graduates who only hold a Bachelor’s degree.
  • Network: A Master’s program offers you the chance to build a network of like-minded people – which can help you to sound career opportunities and make it easier to share information and expertise.
  • Deeper understanding: A Master’s in Finance presents an opportunity to gain a more in-depth understanding of financial topics and comprehend complex concepts more clearly.

Overall, a Master’s in Finance can help you to improve your career opportunities, increase your earnings, further your specialist understanding and build a valuable network.

What can you do with a Master’s in Finance?

Securing a Master’s degree in Finance opens up a number of wide-ranging career opportunities. For example, you could work in investment banking and help companies to secure capital and implement financial transactions. Alternatively, you could find a position in a company’s finance department, where you would analyze the company’s financial position to improve its financial performance. Another option would be to work in asset management as a portfolio manager, developing asset strategies for customers and taking care of their assets. You could also pursue a career in risk management or financial consultancy. So, as you can see, a Master’s in Finance will open the doors to opportunities in various sectors and different companies. Whichever path you choose, a passion for finance offers financial stability, career development and personal fulfillment.

Where can I do a Master’s in Finance?

Numerous universities and higher education institutions around the world offer Master’s programs in Finance. You can study domestically or internationally – or maybe even in your hometown. Some of the highest-ranking universities for a Master’s in Finance include London Business School, New York University, INSEAD Business School and Harvard Business School. However, you can also study as a specialist business school, such as the renowned Munich Business School. It is important that you research carefully when making your choice to ensure you find the program best suited to your career goals and personal interests. In addition to classroom-based programs, there are also online programs that allow you to study from anywhere around the world.

Why study banking and finance?

There are a whole host of reasons to study banking and finance! Here are a few of the most important:

  • Career prospects: The financial sector offers careers in various fields, from investment banking and corporate finance to risk management, asset management and much more besides. Studying banking and finance is the ideal preparation for a successful career in the financial sector.
  • Financial stability: Financial institutions generally offer competitive salaries and perks including bonuses and share options. Earning a degree in a field such as finance and banking can therefore lead to financial stability and prosperity.
  • Practical skills: During your studies, you will gain practical skills including analysis and evaluation methods, risk management, financial modeling and data analysis. These skills are highly sought after – not only in the financial sector but also in various other fields of work, such as consultancy and marketing.
  • Work worldwide: The financial sector is global, so studying banking and finance gives you the opportunity to work in different countries and markets, applying your skills and knowledge.
  • Personal development: Studying banking and finance will challenge you and present an opportunity to hone your skills in areas such as critical thinking, problem solving and communication. At the same time, this program of study can help to build your self-confidence, so that you trust your own abilities.

Overall, a Master’s in Finance offers a number of benefits and career opportunities. If you’re interested in finance and business, and are looking for a challenging yet rewarding career, studying finance is definitely a good choice.

How difficult is studying banking and finance?

A Master’s program focusing on banking and finance can be challenging, especially when it comes to complex financial instruments and models. It requires a solid understanding of financial mathematics, business and accounting. However, the career prospects are worth the effort, as they provide excellent opportunities for personal growth and development. If you work hard, show commitment and secure a high-quality education, you can achieve success in this field.

What does a finance degree program cover?

A Master’s program in Finance concentrates on advanced financial concepts, theories and techniques in order to give students a comprehensive understanding of the world of finance. In general, it covers the following topics:

  • Financial markets and instruments: Trading securities and other financial instruments; analyzing financial markets.
  • Corporate finance: Financing companies by issuing shares and bonds; evaluating companies and investment projects.
  • Financial management: Financial administration and risk management in companies and organizations.
  • Financial mathematics: Mathematical fundamentals of financial analysis and evaluation.
  • International finance: Global financial markets and financing for international companies and projects.
  • Asset management: Administration of asset portfolios and asset allocation.

A Master’s program in Finance can focus on both theoretical and practical aspects and often integrates an internship to provide professional experience. Career opportunities for graduates span the financial sector, from investment banking and asset management to corporate finance and risk management.

No precise data is available regarding how many companies have a Chief Digital Officer (CDO) because this varies depending on the sector, the company’s size and its geographical location. However, there is certainly a trend in which a growing number of companies are creating a CDO or similar position to drive their digital transformation. The role of CDO has become increasingly important for companies to remain competitive, especially in the retail industry, the financial services industry and the technology industry. According to a study published by the consultancy firm Gartner in 2020, almost all major companies worldwide are expected to appoint a CDO or create a similar digital management position by 2024.

How long does a degree in finance take?

The Master’s in International Business | Finance Track at Munich Business School lasts three semesters. If you opt for the dual degree option with the aim of earning two separate Master’s qualifications, the program lasts an extra semester.

How much does a financial manager earn?

A financial manager’s salary depends on a variety of factors, such as the country they are based in, the industry they work in, the size of their company, their experience level and their qualifications. Here is a selection of standard salary brackets in different countries:

  • In the USA, the average salary for a financial manager is $130,000 per year, with a starting salary of $70,000 and experienced managers able to command a salary in excess of $200,000.
  • In Germany, the average salary for a financial manager ranges from €50,000 to €120,000 per year, depending on their experience and the scope of their responsibilities.
  • In the UK, the average salary for a financial manager is between £50,000 and £100,000 per year, while more experienced managers with more responsibilities often earn more than £150,000 per year.

However, it is important to note that these figures are only guides and actual earnings depending on various factors. Salaries can also vary in different companies and industries.

STILL UNDECIDED? CHECK OUT OUR OTHER MASTER’S PROGRAMMES.

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Looking to find out more?

Studienberater MBS: Uttamdeep Kaur, B.A.
PAGE-TITLE: Master International Business | Finance