Who benefits from the part-time BWL distance learning course?

The Business Administration (B.A.) distance learning course at the University of Applied Sciences Schmalkalden is aimed at professionals from all industries who want to expand or deepen their business administration knowledge in a fundamental way. It particularly targets individuals with (commercial) training and initial professional experience who wish to qualify for specialist and management tasks without interrupting their professional activities. The study model is suitable for those who place great value on flexibility, maintaining a regular income, and exchanging ideas in small learning groups.

Admission requirements for the BWL distance learning course

Admission to the B.A. Business Administration distance learning course is possible through several avenues:

• With a general higher education entrance qualification, subject-specific higher education entrance qualification, or university of applied sciences entrance qualification
  • Direct access to the course
• Through professional qualifications:
  • Completed master craftsman's examination or an equivalent professional training
  • Successfully completed course to become a state-certified technician or state-certified business economist
• For professionally qualified individuals without university entrance qualification – probationary study:
  • At least two years of vocational training in a related field
  • At least three years of full-time professional experience in a related field
• For professionally qualified individuals without related education/professional experience – entrance examination:
  • Completed vocational training (in any field)
  • At least three years of full-time work experience
  • Successful entrance examination at the University of Applied Sciences Schmalkalden

Note: All necessary proofs and exact regulations can be found in the study regulations and the entrance examination regulations of the University of Applied Sciences Schmalkalden.

Personal requirements:

• You should bring motivation and initiative for self-organized and predominantly digital learning.
• Initial practical work experience, ideally in an economic environment, is advantageous but not mandatory.
• The willingness to regularly participate in online presence dates (Wednesday evenings and Saturdays) is required.
• Important soft skills include self-management, communication skills, and the ability to integrate learning phases into everyday life.
• Interest in business administration contexts and openness to interdisciplinary work are recommended.

Which subject areas does the distance learning course in Business Administration (B.A.) cover?

In the course "Business Administration (B.A.)" at the University of Schmalkalden, you will build a broad, generalist knowledge of business administration. The focus is on practical application, supported by close contacts with companies and industry associations. The competencies taught include:

• Economic Fundamentals: Introduction to business administration and economics (microeconomics, macroeconomics, economic policy, economic theory).
• Accounting & Controlling: Financial accounting, cost accounting, taxes and balance sheets, tax law.
• Financing & Investment: Financing methods, investment planning, financial management.
• Business Management: Business management, personnel management, production, marketing, brand management, start-ups and business security, practical projects.
• Legal Fundamentals: Civil law, labor law, commercial law, company law, and competition law.
• Quantitative Methods: Mathematics, statistics.
• Technology & IT: Information technology.
• Communication & Key Qualifications: English, intercultural communication, intercultural management.
• Additional Specialization: Health and environmental economics, key qualifications for practical business.

Upon completion of the course, you will be able to analyze economic relationships, control operational processes, and make fact-based decisions. The training is explicitly designed for transfer to professional practice.

How is the structure of the distance learning course in Business Administration (B.A.) organized?

The distance learning course is designed for flexibility as well as structure to enable compatibility with work and family:

• Duration of Studies: Usually six to eight semesters (180 ECTS credits), Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree.
• Learning Format: Blended learning with an online campus, digital teaching materials, and regular attendance phases.
• Attendance Times: Weekly online seminars:
  • Wednesday evenings: 17:30 to 20:30
  • Saturdays: 8:30 to 15:30
• Self-Study: Independent study of study materials, supplemented by online teaching offers.
• Examinations: Module-wise exams, typically during the attendance phases.
• Practical Orientation: Integration of project work from everyday professional life and a practical project during the course of study.
• Support: Personal study coordinator as a fixed point of contact.
• Group Structure: Small study groups promote exchange with lecturers and other students.
• Flexibility: Options for sabbatical semesters in case of special professional or personal burdens.

The course starts each winter semester. The language of instruction is German. The content is tailored for direct application in the professional environment, supported at all times by the online campus and personal contacts.

What career opportunities does the online Business Administration course offer?

Graduates of the part-time Business Administration distance learning course at the University of Schmalkalden have various career paths open to them, as the degree is broadly oriented and recognized across industries:

• Entry into Specialist and Management Positions: Qualify for roles in administration, management, marketing, human resources, accounting, controlling, or sales.
• Key Positions in Companies: Common fields of activity include:
  • Project Management
  • Finance and Accounting
  • Human Resource Management
  • Controlling and Business Control
  • Marketing and Product Management
  • Purchasing and Logistics
• Self-Employment and Entrepreneurship: The course provides a foundation for starting and running your own business.
• Industry-Neutral Applicability: The qualification is relevant for all sectors of the economy, such as industry, trade, services, or healthcare.
• Further Education and Career Advancement: The bachelor's degree is a basis for further master's degree programs in the field of business administration.

The close integration with practical projects and business-related topics promotes direct career mobility after completing the studies.

What are the costs associated with this distance learning course and how can you finance it?

The fees for the part-time distance learning course in Business Administration (B.A.) at the University of Schmalkalden are structured as follows:

• Tuition Fee: 1,980 euros per semester
• Semester Fee: Additional mandatory fee per semester (amount depends on the current fee regulations)
• Teaching Materials, Seminars, and Exams: Included in the total price (no enrollment or exam fees)
• Additional Costs: Personal travel and accommodation expenses for attendance phases

The tuition fees and semester fee are to be paid at the beginning of each semester. It is possible to claim these expenses as business-related costs for tax purposes.

• Support and Financing Options:
  • Scholarships and state subsidies for part-time further education
  • Support programs, e.g., through the employer
  • Education loans or education funds
  • Possibilities for applying for sabbatical semesters in case of financial difficulties

The university offers individual advice on financing and support options.