Study Entrepreneurship in Germany via Distance Learning : All Top Courses Compared

Bachelor & Master for Entrepreneurs from IU to Tomorrow University Overview
  • 13Academic Programs
  • 13Online
  • 10Master
  • 3Bachelor
 · Last updated 24.03.2025

Contents

Entrepreneurship is more than just a good idea or a dose of courage - it requires strategic thinking, sound business knowledge, and the ability to act flexibly in a constantly changing world.

For those who want to acquire these skills and remain flexible, distance learning courses in Entrepreneurship offer an ideal opportunity. They combine solid knowledge with practical applications, enabling the development and implementation of new business ideas without having to give up one's profession or other commitments.

On this page, I present courses in Entrepreneurship, including master's and bachelor's programmes, all of which can be completed online. I will show you which universities offer such programmes, what costs to expect, and what to consider when choosing the right course. So, if you are planning the next step in your entrepreneurial career or maybe want to start your own start-up, you will find all the essential information here.

Overview of all Courses

We have a total of 12 courses in the field of Entrepreneurship.

Distance learning program, Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  •  Centre for Distance Learning in the University Consortium
  •  4 Semester
  •  German
  •  Business Administration and Leadership, Applied Economics, Digital Business and Innovation, Academic Writing, Corporate Social Responsibility and Mana…
Part-time distance learning program, Master of Arts (M.A.)
  •  University of Applied Sciences Schmalkalden
  •  5 Semester
  •  Schmalkalden, Eisenach und Gera (Thüringen)
  •  German

This part-time study programme at the state university of Schmalkalden is aimed at all those who already have a degree in a business-related field and who aspire to a managerial …

in english
Distance learning program, Master of Arts (M.A.)
  •  IU International University
  •  4 Semester
  •  English

With this English-language master's programme, you will learn systematically how to implement your own business ideas and take on leadership responsibilities in innovation management. You will engage with topics such …

in english
Distance learning program, Master of Arts (M.A.)
  •  IU International University
  •  2 Semester
  •  English

This master's programme lasts only 2 semesters in full-time study and 3-4 semesters in part-time study. In online study, you will learn everything you need to know to grow a …

in english
Distance learning program, Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
  •  IU International University
  •  6 Semester
  •  German or English

This Bachelor's programme provides you with the fundamental principles, methods, and applications in the field of business administration, as well as a particular emphasis on an "Entrepreneurial Mindset". Throughout the …

Distance learning program, Master of Arts (M.A.)
  •  SRH Distance Learning University - The Mobile University
  •  4 Semester
  •  German
  •  Empirical Social Research, Applied Project Start-Up - Part 1, Digital Strategies and Business Models, Entrepreneurship in the Digital Age, Project and…
Distance learning program, Master of Arts (M.A.)
  •  IU International University
  •  2 Semester
  •  German
  •  Digital Business Management, Digital Business Models, Lean Start Up, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Applied Research, Project: Entrepreneurship-orie…
Distance learning program, Master of Science (M.Sc.)
  •  Fresenius University of Applied Sciences
  •  4 Semester
  •  German

The consecutive Master's programme in Sustainability Management & Leadership at Fresenius University prepares graduates of a Bachelor's degree programme comprehensively for sustainable corporate management. Students learn to evaluate entrepreneurial decisions …

Distance learning program, Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
  •  European Distance Learning University Hamburg
  •  6 Semester
  •  German

The Bachelor's degree programme in Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management (B.A.) at the European Distance University Hamburg is aimed at individuals who wish to further develop in the field of Entrepreneurship …

Distance learning program, Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  •  AKAD University
  •  4 Semester
  •  German

Are you interested in preparing for new professional challenges in top management, exploring innovative business fields, or understanding the strategic development of start-ups, consulting firms, or non-profit organizations? Do you …

in english
Distance learning program, Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
  •  Tomorrow University of Applied Sciences
  •  6 Semester
  •  German or English
  •  Introduction to Entrepreneurship, Mission Identification and Learning Insights, Technology Revolutions, Teams and People Management, Sustainability Fo…
Distance learning program, Master of Business and Engineering (MBE)
  •  University of Stuttgart
  •  8 Semester
  •  German
  •  Methods and tools in economic and engineering sciences, intra- and entrepreneurship, technology management, IT, law and intellectual property manageme…

Studying Entrepreneurship: What are the Benefits of a Degree?

Studying entrepreneurship may seem unusual at first glance - after all, many successful founders are described as free thinkers who started their careers without formal education. However, reality shows: a degree in entrepreneurship offers much more than just theoretical knowledge. It imparts the practical skills and strategic thinking necessary to successfully develop, implement, and scale a business idea.

An entrepreneurship degree combines traditional business topics such as financial management, marketing, and organization with innovative concepts like design thinking, lean start-ups, and innovation management. It focuses not only on the basics of business management but also on forward-looking topics such as digital business models, sustainability, and scaling start-ups.

An essential advantage of a degree is the opportunity to take initial entrepreneurial steps in a protected environment: many programmes offer practical projects where students can develop their business ideas, create business plans, and present them to a jury. Additionally, important soft skills such as team leadership, negotiation techniques, and creative problem-solving are taught - skills that are invaluable for entrepreneurs.

A degree in entrepreneurship is not only interesting for aspiring founders. It also opens up perspectives in management consulting, innovation management in large companies, or the development of new business areas. Furthermore, it creates a valuable network of fellow students, lecturers, and industry experts that often lasts beyond the study period.

In short: a degree in entrepreneurship is not a must for success, but it can be the decisive factor in making the entrepreneurial journey safer, more structured, and more sustainable. It provides the tools to turn visions into reality - a skill that is increasingly in demand in a dynamic and competitive business world.

Pros: What are the Benefits of Studying?

  • Solid knowledge: Conveyance of business and entrepreneurial fundamentals.
  • Practice orientation: Opportunity to develop and implement business ideas in a protected environment.
  • Networking: Contacts with like-minded people, lecturers, mentors, and industry experts.
  • Career diversity: Options as founders, innovation managers, consultants, or executives.
  • Soft skills: Development of leadership, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
  • Structured entry: Clear orientation and support with the first entrepreneurial steps.

Cons: What are the Drawbacks of Studying?

  • Costs: Study fees can be high, especially for specialized programmes.
  • Time commitment: A degree requires several years, during which practical experience may be limited.
  • No guarantee of success: A degree alone does not make a successful entrepreneur.
  • Lack of practical content: Some programmes lack a reference to real founding practice.
  • Opportunity costs: Time spent studying could be invested directly in a start-up.

Universities where you can study Entrepreneurship online

The choice of the right university for a degree in Entrepreneurship is crucial for the success of your academic and professional goals. First, pay attention to the accreditation and reputation of the university to ensure that the degree is recognised and of high quality. Check the contents of the course, especially whether topics such as innovation management, digital entrepreneurship, or business planning correspond to your interests. Flexibility is also an important factor: make sure that the study model - be it full-time, part-time, or while working - fits into your everyday life. Consider the costs as well as possible funding or scholarships. Lastly, it is helpful to inform yourself about the practical relevance and support in founding, for example through networks or mentorship programmes. The right university is the one that best suits your personal and professional goals.

Here are the universities offering distance learning courses in Entrepreneurship:

Logo of the Tomorrow UniversityTomorrow University: The Tomorrow University of Applied Sciences is a modern, state-recognised university that specialises in training professionals in the fields of sustainability, entrepreneurship, and technology. As a remote-first university, it offers flexible learning models tailored to individual needs. The focus is on project-based, practice-oriented learning that prepares students for future challenges. The Bachelor's programme "Responsible Entrepreneurship & Management" at the Tomorrow University places a special emphasis on sustainability and digital transformation. The study is project-based and carried out entirely online, providing students with a unique learning experience. This programme is ideal for those who wish to start a socially responsible company.

IU logoThe IU International University is a private university in Erfurt, Thuringia. Since the Summer Semester of 2021, IU has been the largest university in Germany, with over 150,000 enrolled students. The university offers on-campus programmes, dual degree programmes, and more than 100 distance learning programmes. The IU provides a wide range of online programmes, including the Bachelor's programme "Entrepreneurship" as well as specialised Master's programmes such as "Digital Entrepreneurship" and "Growth Hacking for Entrepreneurs". These programmes stand out for their maximum flexibility: there is no attendance requirement, and the content can be worked on at any time. The IU places special emphasis on practical modules and offers students the opportunity to apply their skills directly in projects.

Fresenius logoThe Fresenius University is a private, state-recognised university in Idstein, Hesse. The history of the university dates back to 1848. In the WS 2021/2022, a total of 18,000 students were enrolled at the university. The university offers distance learning programmes through its onlineplus department. The consecutive Master's programme in Sustainability Management & Leadership at Fresenius University thoroughly prepares graduates of a basic degree programme for sustainable business management. Students learn to evaluate entrepreneurial decisions considering social, ecological, and economic aspects and to develop sustainable business models.

AKAD logoThe AKAD University is a private, state-recognised university in Stuttgart, Baden-Wuerttemberg. Founded in 1959, the university had a total of 6,187 students enrolled in the WS 2022/2023. The MBA programme "Entrepreneurship and Innovation" at AKAD University combines business knowledge with innovative approaches for starting and leading businesses. The programme is fully digital, offering working professionals the flexibility to learn. It is especially aimed at aspiring executives and entrepreneurs with ambitious goals.

Euro-FH logoEuropean Distance University of Hamburg: Euro-FH is a private, state-recognised university based in Hamburg. Founded in 2003, a total of 9,646 students were enrolled at the university in the WS 2022/2023. Euro-FH functions as a business school, offering programmes in the field of business administration. With the Bachelor's programme "Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management," the European Distance University caters to individuals who want to learn not only entrepreneurial basics but also understand and shape innovation processes. The flexible learning concept allows students to tailor their studies individually, while practical content and regular online events promote learning success.

SRH logoSRH Distance University: SRH Distance University - The Mobile University is a state-recognised, private university based in Riedlingen, Baden-Wuerttemberg. Founded in 1996, a total of 6,321 students were enrolled at SRH Riedlingen in the WS 2020/2021. The university describes itself as a "quality leader in distance learning". SRH Distance University offers the Master's programme "Entrepreneurship," which focuses specifically on digital business models and founding projects. The programme is fully online, supplemented by intensive support offers and project-oriented projects that prepare for founding and scaling of companies.

ZFH logoThe Center for Distance Studies in the University Consortium (zfh) is a scientific institution of the federal states of Rhineland-Palatinate, Hesse, and Saarland, based in Koblenz. As such, the zfh combines the distance learning offerings of a total of 15 universities of applied sciences from the three states of Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland and other federal states such as Berlin. Students enrolling in a course through the zfh are actually enrolled at a public university of applied sciences.

Logo HS SchmalkaldenUniversity of Applied Sciences Schmalkalden: The University of Applied Sciences Schmalkalden, existing in its current form since 1991, is a renowned state university for applied sciences in Thuringia with over 2,500 students and more than 20 bachelor's and master's programmes. In addition to its five faculties and an idyllic location on the edge of the Thuringian Forest, the university is characterised by its international partnerships, excellent practice-oriented teaching, modern facilities, and the possibility of a dual degree at foreign partner universities. It also offers distance learning programmes and university certificates.

Anzeige

The Cost of a Master's Distance Learning Programme in Entrepreneurship

The costs for a master's distance learning programme in Entrepreneurship vary greatly depending on the university, study model, and additional services. While some state universities charge relatively low fees, private providers and international programmes can be significantly more expensive. Here is an overview of typical costs:

CourseUniversityDurationFees

Distance learning program
4 Semesterfrom 9000 € total

Part-time distance learning program
5 Semesterfrom 11800 € total

Distance learning program
2 Semesterfrom 10099 € total
from 475 € monthly

Distance learning program
4 Semesterfrom 14475 € total
from 579 € monthly

Distance learning program
4 Semesterfrom 12696 € total
from 319 € monthly

Distance learning program
2 Semesterfrom 10099 € total
from 475 € monthly

Distance learning program
4 Semesterfrom 14143 € total
from 329 € monthly

Distance learning program
8 Semesterfrom 22710 € total

Studying Sustainable Entrepreneurship: Options Available

Sustainable entrepreneurship combines the principles of entrepreneurial action with ecological, social, and economic responsibility. More and more universities offer specialised degree programmes that prepare future entrepreneurs and executives to develop and implement sustainable business models. These programmes are ideal for those who want to tackle social challenges with innovative approaches and make companies future-proof.

Graduates from these programmes are well-equipped to make companies future-proof, develop innovative solutions to global challenges, and take responsibility for a more sustainable economy in leadership positions. With practical approaches and flexible learning models, these programmes create ideal conditions for a successful career in sustainable management.

Here are some of the best options to study sustainable entrepreneurship through distance learning:

CourseUniversityDurationCourse contentsFees

Distance learning program
4 SemesterGlobal sustainability policy and strategies, Sustainable business and resource management, Competencies for sustainable change, Sustainable Finance, Corporate Responsibility, Strategy and Leadership, …from 12504 € total
from 521 € monthly

Part-time distance learning program
5 SemesterFoundations of sustainability and social responsibility, legal and normative systems for sustainability management, Sustainable corporate governance and change management, Sustainable procurement and …from 13800 € total

Distance learning program
2 SemesterCore Modules: Global Sustainability Policies and Strategies, Sustainable Business and Resource Management, Corporate Responsibility, Strategy and Leadership; Sustainable Finance; Specialization in Sus…from 7956 € total
from 598 € monthly

Distance learning program
4 SemesterField of work, research perspectives and fundamentals Sustainable Markets & Strategy, Positive Leadership & sustainable corporate culture, Global Markets, Competition and Business Model, Stakeholder M…from 12600 € total
from 315 € monthly

Distance learning program
3 SemesterSustainability Fundamentals, Leadership Fundamentals, Innovation Fundamentals, Leading with Numbers, Elective Impact Degrees: Think & Act as a Leader / Improve the Global Impact of Your Organisation /…from 11000 € total
from 307 € monthly

Distance learning program
2 SemesterSustainable Business Administration, Global Challenges and Sustainable Development, ESG-oriented Financial Sciences, Value Chain Management, Sustainable Business Models, Research Methodology, Economic…from 10099 € total
from 475 € monthly
Anzeige

Study Advice

Questions on the topic? Use our study advice, we are happy to help.

Say something here...
or post as a guest
Loading comment... The comment will be refreshed after 00:00.