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Germany offers one of the most affordable routes to an accredited business degree in Europe. With over 340 programmes across more than 50 universities, the choice ranges from Business Administration and MBA to specialised fields like Business Psychology or Tourism Management. Public university tuition starts at under 100 € per month – a fraction of comparable programmes in the US, UK, or Australia. This page compares all 13 specialisations, with costs, admission requirements, and career prospects.
30 Top online courses in Business & Media at a Glance
We have a total of 326 courses in the field of Economy & Media. The first 30 top courses are displayed. Use the filter function or our search to discover more courses in the field.
Business Psychology
IU International University · B.Sc. · 6 Semester
Business Administration
IST University of Management · B.A. · 6 Semester
Business Administration
IU International University · B.A. · 6 Semester
Master of Business Administration
IU International University · MBA · 2 Semester
Business Administration
Private University Goettingen · MBA · 3 Semester
Business Psychology
Fresenius University of Applied Sciences · B.Sc. · 6 Semester
Business Administration and Business Psychology
European Distance Learning University Hamburg · B.Sc. · 6 Semester
Business Administration
University of Potsdam · MBA · 4 Semester
Business Administration
Fresenius University of Applied Sciences · B.A. · 6 Semester
Political science, public administration, sociology
University of Hagen · B.A. · 6 Semester
Political Science - Governance and Participation
University of Hagen · M.A. · 4 Semester
Economic Psychology
SRH Distance Learning University - The Mobile University · B.Sc. · 6 Semester
International Business Administration
European Distance Learning University Hamburg · B.A. · 6 Semester
General Management
Fresenius University of Applied Sciences · MBA · 3 Semester
Economic psychology
Private University Goettingen · B.A. · 6 Semester
General Management
European Distance Learning University Hamburg · MBA · 4 Semester
General Management
University of Technology and Economics Berlin · MBA · 4 Semester
Business Administration
University of Wismar · Dipl.-Betriebsw. · 9 Semester
Media and Communication Management
Fresenius University of Applied Sciences · B.A. · 6 Semester
Business Administration (BWL)
University of Wismar · B.A. · 8 Semester
Business Administration
European Distance Learning University Hamburg · B.Sc. · 6 Semester
International Business Communication
AKAD University · B.A. · 6 Semester
Business Administration
Private University Goettingen · B.A. · 6 Semester
Marketing Management
Centre for Distance Learning in the University Consortium · MBA · 4 Semester
Applied Psychology for Business
Private University Goettingen · M.A. · 3 Semester
Specialized translation business
AKAD University · B.A. · 6 Semester
Programme Types: 13 Business Specialisations
German universities organise business programmes into 13 distinct specialisation areas. Each leads to different career paths and requires different skills. The following table provides a quick overview.
| Specialisation | Typical Degrees | Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration | B.A., M.A., B.Sc. | Accounting, controlling, general management – the broadest business degree |
| Management | B.A., M.A., M.Sc. | Corporate leadership, strategy, organisational development |
| MBA | MBA | General management with case studies – for experienced professionals |
| Marketing | B.A., M.A. | Digital marketing, brand management, market research |
| HR Management | B.A., M.A. | Recruiting, talent development, employment law |
| Business Psychology | B.Sc., M.Sc. | Consumer behaviour, change management, work psychology – business meets psychology |
| Finance | B.A., M.A. | Investment, accounting, taxation – for careers in finance and controlling |
| Economics | B.Sc., M.Sc. | Microeconomics, macroeconomics, economic policy – the academic classic |
| Communications | B.A., M.A. | PR, corporate communications, media management |
| Entrepreneurship | B.A., M.A. | Startup creation, innovation, business planning |
| Tourism & Hospitality | B.A., M.A. | Travel management, event management, hotel industry |
| Real Estate Management | B.A., M.A. | Property valuation, project development, construction technology |
| Media Studies | B.A., M.A. | Media production, digital media, content strategy |
Business Administration (BWL) is the most versatile choice if you want to keep your options open. For professionals with management ambitions, an MBA is the fastest route to a leadership position. Business Psychology is one of the most popular distance learning programmes in Germany, combining business knowledge with psychological methods.
Tuition Fees and Cost Comparison
Compared to the US (average $40,000/year), UK (£9,250/year), or Australia (AU$20,000+/year), German distance learning programmes are remarkably affordable. Even private German universities rarely exceed 17,000 € for an entire Bachelor’s degree.
Bachelor’s: Cost Comparison
| Course | University | Fees | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Bachelor of Arts Distance learning program | Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences | from 1164 € total | |
| Economics, Bachelor of Science Distance learning program | University of Hagen | from 2174 € total | |
| Business management, Bachelor of Arts Distance learning program | Centre for Distance Learning in the University Consortium | from 2371 € total | |
| Tourism Management, Bachelor of Arts Distance learning program | Jade University | from 4073 € total | |
| Economy, Bachelor of Arts Distance learning program | European Higher Education Network | from 5148 € total from 99 € monthly | |
| Real estate management for real estate merchants, Bachelor of Arts Distance learning program | IU International University | from 7182 € total from 259 € monthly | |
| Business Administration (BWL), Bachelor of Arts Distance learning program | University of Wismar | from 7632 € total from 159 € monthly | |
| Human Resource Management, Bachelor of Arts Distance learning program | University of Wismar | from 7632 € total from 159 € monthly |
Master’s and MBA: Cost Comparison
Funding and Financial Aid
International students enrolled at a German university may be eligible for the following funding options:
- Tax deduction (German taxpayers): Tuition fees, study materials, and travel costs for exams can be deducted from taxable income. A second degree (e.g. Master’s after Bachelor’s) qualifies as a full business expense.
- Employer sponsorship: Many employers in Germany co-fund degrees that align with the employee’s role. This is particularly common for MBA and management programmes.
- KfW Student Loan: Available to students enrolled at accredited German institutions, providing up to 650 € per month regardless of income.
- Aufstiegs-BAföG: Since January 2025, up to 18,000 € in tuition fees are covered. After passing the final exam, 60% of the loan is forgiven. Eligibility depends on residency status.
Public vs. Private Universities
The University of Hagen (FernUniversität) is Germany’s only public distance university and the largest provider of business programmes in this category. It offers Economics (B.Sc./M.Sc.) with a strong emphasis on both business administration and macroeconomics, at total costs of approximately 1,600 to 2,400 €. The University of Wismar and consortia such as the Centre for Distance Learning (zfh) complement the public offering.
Private universities offer more flexibility and personal support at higher cost. Key providers include:
- IU International University: The largest private distance learning university in Germany with over 40 business programmes. Maximum flexibility with online exams available 24/7.
- Euro-FH Hamburg: Combines distance learning with practical projects. Strong reputation for Business Administration and Marketing programmes.
- AKAD University: Specialises in technology-oriented business programmes. Offers Business Administration, Finance, and Management degrees.
- Allensbach University: Focused on MBA and management programmes, including options for applicants without a first degree.
| Public | Private | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (Bachelor’s total) | 1,600–7,000 € | 9,500–16,500 € |
| Monthly rate | from 99 € | 200–450 € |
| Support | Self-directed learning, online forums | Personal advisors, tutors |
| Exams | On-site at fixed dates | Often online, flexibly scheduled |
| Start dates | Semester-based (Oct./April) | Any time |
| Recognition | State-run, accredited | State-recognised, accredited |
Career Prospects and Salary
A business degree from a German university is recognised across the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) and beyond. Career prospects depend on the chosen specialisation and degree level. The following salary data is based on the German Federal Employment Agency (Entgeltatlas) and the StepStone Salary Report 2024.
| Field | Starting Salary/Year | With 5+ Years Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration/Controlling | ~40,000 € | ~55,000 € |
| Marketing | ~37,000 € | ~48,000 € |
| HR Management | ~38,000 € | ~50,000 € |
| Business Psychology | ~38,000 € | ~52,000 € |
| Finance/Investment | ~44,000 € | ~62,000 € |
| Management (with MBA) | ~52,000 € | ~72,000 € |
The salary gap between Bachelor’s and Master’s graduates averages 10,000 to 15,000 € per year according to StepStone – especially in leadership positions and finance roles. An MBA can amplify this effect, particularly when combined with professional experience.
Admission Requirements
Bachelor’s Programmes
Admission to a Bachelor’s programme typically requires a secondary school leaving certificate equivalent to the German Abitur or Fachhochschulreife. For international applicants, the anabin database maintained by the KMK (Standing Conference of Education Ministers) lists which foreign qualifications are recognised in Germany.
Many private universities also admit students without a traditional university entrance qualification – through professional experience or vocational qualifications. A completed vocational training in a commercial field with at least two to three years of work experience often qualifies for admission.
Master’s and MBA Programmes
Master’s programmes require a first degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent) with at least 180 ECTS in a related field. Some universities require bridging courses in business fundamentals or statistics for applicants with non-business Bachelor’s degrees.
MBA programmes typically require one to three years of professional experience in addition to a first degree. Some programmes, such as the MBA at Allensbach University, also accept applicants without a first degree if they can demonstrate sufficient management experience and pass an aptitude test.
Accreditation and Degree Recognition
All programmes listed on this page are accredited by one of Germany’s recognised accreditation agencies and approved by the relevant state ministry. A degree from an accredited German university is recognised throughout the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) and beyond.
All programmes use the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS). A Bachelor’s typically requires 180 ECTS (3 years) or 210 ECTS (3.5 years), a Master’s 60–120 ECTS. For use outside Europe, organisations such as World Education Services (WES) or NACES member organisations can evaluate your German degree.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a business distance degree cost in Germany? At public universities, total costs for a Bachelor’s range from 1,600 to 7,000 €. Private universities charge between 9,500 and 16,500 €. Monthly rates start at around 99 €.
- Can I study business in English at a German university? Most programmes are taught in German. IU International University offers selected business programmes in English. For other universities, German language proficiency at B2 level is typically required.
- What is the difference between BWL and Economics? Business Administration (BWL) focuses on operational management, accounting, and corporate strategy. Economics (Wirtschaftswissenschaften) combines business administration with macroeconomics and economic theory.
- Is an MBA better than a Master’s? Not necessarily. An MBA is a practice-oriented management degree for experienced professionals, not a substitute for a specialised Master’s. For deep expertise in finance, marketing, or HR, a Master’s degree is the stronger choice.
- How long does a business distance degree take? A Bachelor’s takes 6–8 semesters (3–4 years), a Master’s 2–4 semesters (1–2 years), an MBA 2–3 semesters. Most universities offer free extensions beyond the standard study period.
- Is a German business degree recognised internationally? Yes. All programmes listed here are accredited under the European Higher Education Area framework and use ECTS credits. For non-European countries, credential evaluation services such as WES can verify your degree.
- Do I need to attend on-campus sessions? Most business programmes can be completed entirely online. Some universities require on-site exams at German test centres or partner locations abroad. Private universities also offer online-proctored exams.
About the Author Christian Wolf
Hi, I'm Christian, the founder of fernstudi.net & your personal, independent study advisor 👋 Do you have questions about a course of study or are unsure which course is right for you? I'm happy to help - in detail, competently, honestly, and individually.
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