Who is the MBA Distance Learning Programme in General Management Suitable For?

The MBA distance learning programme in General Management at AKAD University is aimed at professionals who aspire to leadership positions in companies or organisations or who wish to further qualify themselves specifically for higher management tasks. The course is ideal for specialists and executives with a first university degree (Bachelor, Diploma or equivalent) who want to expand their competencies in generalised business administration topics. Individuals with an international professional background who are interested in intercultural management tasks also benefit from this course. Last but not least, graduates can prepare for a doctorate. The course is particularly suitable for applicants from business, engineering or other disciplines who want to acquire sound management knowledge for a future leadership role.

Admission Requirements at a Glance

• University Degree: A first university degree (e.g. Bachelor or Diploma) with at least 180 ECTS or a comparable international qualification is required.
• Professional Experience: You need relevant, qualified professional experience of at least one year after your first degree.
• Language Skills (for international applicants):
  • Proof of German language skills, e.g. through DSH-2, TestDaF (level 4), Goethe Certificate C1 or a recognised school leaving certificate with university entrance qualification.
• Recognition of Prior Learning: If you already hold a degree such as Dipl.-Kaufmann/-frau, Dipl.-Betriebswirtin or comparable, business-related diploma degrees as well as one year of professional practice, recognition of up to two semesters is possible. Details are available from the AKAD University examination office.

Recommended Personal Qualifications:

• Sound knowledge of academic working methods, especially in independently producing academic texts.
• Advanced English skills to successfully complete English-language modules.
• Basic knowledge of mathematics and statistics.
• Self-motivation, time management and willingness for self-directed learning – key competencies in distance learning.
• Analytical thinking skills, ability to work in a team and interest in business contexts.

Course Content and Structure of the MBA General Management

The MBA distance learning programme "General Management" at AKAD University offers a comprehensive insight into the central business administration disciplines. Its aim is to qualify graduates for demanding leadership and management roles in national and international companies.

• Basic modules: Teaching business and management-related skills, including in the following areas:
  • Marketing Management
  • Corporate Logistics and Supply Chain Management
  • Human Resource Management
  • Cost and Performance Accounting
  • Taxation
• Core modules: Advanced topics with a focus on analytical and strategic skills:
  • Investment and Financing
  • Strategic Management and Controlling
  • Technology Management
  • Organisation and Corporate Development
  • Process Organisation
  • International Management and Intercultural Communication
• Applied subjects & specialisations (electives): Individual focal points can be set, for example:
  • Corporate Governance and Sustainability
  • Global Marketing
  • Financial Management
  • Human Resource Management
  • International Management
• Case study work: Application of theoretical content on practical examples.
• Master’s thesis and colloquium: Scientific final thesis on a chosen focus topic with defence in the colloquium.

The programme comprises a total of 120 ECTS credits.

Course Procedure and Organisation of the Distance Learning

The programme is completed entirely online and is flexibly tailored to individual life situations. The standard period of study is 4 semesters (24 months), with an extension up to 48 months possible. There is the possibility to shorten the programme to 2 to 3 semesters through recognition of prior learning. Exams can be taken online, offering a high degree of independence in terms of location and time.

• Start of studies possible at any time – no fixed enrollment dates
• 100 % online study including online examinations
• Study materials, tutorials and exam registrations via the AKAD Online Campus
• Recognition of prior learning: Relevant prior qualifications (e.g. Diplom-Kaufmann) can be recognised for the first two semesters, thereby reducing study time and costs

Career Perspectives after the MBA General Management

The degree qualifies for demanding management and leadership positions in various industries. Thanks to the interdisciplinary imparting of business, methodological and social skills, numerous career opportunities arise:

• Managing Director: Taking on leadership and strategic responsibilities in companies
• Sales Management: Developing sales strategies and leading sales teams
• Management Consulting: Advising companies on management, strategy and change processes
• Chief Finance Officer (CFO): Responsibility for financial planning and control of a company
• Further fields of activity: Project Management, Marketing, Human Resource Management and international management functions

The MBA degree also enables access to doctoral studies.

Costs, Fees and Financing Options

• Total costs: From approximately €11,400 to €14,000 depending on the chosen payment model and duration of study
• Examples:
  • Stretch model (48 months): from €295 per month, plus a one-off examination fee (€960)
  • Standard model (36 months): from €367 per month, plus a one-off examination fee
  • Sprint model (24 months): from €481 per month, plus a one-off examination fee
• Discounts and a free extension of 3 to 12 months are possible
• Various funding options and tax deductibility of tuition fees can be utilised

The programme can be tested for 4 weeks without obligation.