Who benefits from the MBA distance learning course at IU?

Excellent digital teaching: At IU International University, you study more efficiently and successfully using state-of-the-art methods.

The MBA program at IU International University is aimed at professionals who already have a university degree and want to systematically expand their career opportunities in management. It is particularly aimed at professionals from business, technology, IT, or administration seeking leadership or management positions in national and international contexts. The distance learning course is also suitable for graduates from other disciplines with relevant professional experience who want to acquire business management skills and qualify specifically for middle or upper management. Also, individuals who prefer a flexible, digitally supported further education format alongside their professional career benefit from the practice-oriented study concept.

Admission requirements: What do you need to start?

Completed university degree:

• For the 60-ECTS MBA: A Bachelor's degree (minimum 240 ECTS) from a state or state-recognised university, minimum grade of "Satisfactory".
• With 210 ECTS, up to 30 ECTS can be compensated by additional courses or an additional year of relevant work experience (after the first degree).
• With 180 ECTS, access and recognition of additional qualifications are possible on a case-by-case basis. Additional qualifications must be proven accordingly.

Professional experience:

• At least one year of qualified professional experience after completing university (for MBA 60 ECTS, this can be supplemented by additional years of practical experience).
• Under certain conditions, professional experience from a dual study programme can be recognised.

Language skills:

• For the German-language programme: Proof of German language skills at least at B2 level (e.g. TestDaF, DSH, Telc B2, ÖSD B2) if the degree was not obtained in German.
• For the English-language variant: Proof of English language skills (e.g. TOEFL from 80 points, IELTS at least 6, Duolingo English Test from 60%). The certificate should generally not be more than two years old.

Access without a university degree:

• Possible with at least six years of relevant full-time work experience (three of which in a management or expert position) as well as proof through certificates and references.
• Successful completion of a preparation module (written assignment and oral exam) at IU.
• Selected further education courses at level DQR7 (e.g. IHK, HWK) can be a requirement for admission, provided that there is sufficient ECTS recognition.

Recognition of prior learning:

Professional qualifications, certificates, and study achievements from second degree courses (up to 30 ECTS) can be credited and reduce the study time accordingly.

Personal requirements

• Self-motivation and self-organisation to successfully complete the online distance learning course alongside your job.
• Comfortable with digital learning platforms, PC, tablet, or smartphone.
• Willingness to invest several hours per week in study tasks and self-study.
• Interest in business issues and developing management skills.
• Analytical thinking, openness to international and ethical perspectives, and teamwork skills.
• Flexibility and perseverance in self-organised learning situations.

The distance learning course is ideal for you if...

• You already have responsibilities in the company or want to move into a leadership position.
• You work in business-related, technical, IT, or administrative fields and aim for a career advancement.
• You want to develop personally and professionally while completing an internationally recognised management degree.
• You value maximum flexibility in terms of scheduling and learning location.

What contents and skills does the MBA program at IU convey?

In the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at IU International University, you acquire practice-oriented management know-how for leadership positions in national and international companies. The program is designed compactly for 60 ECTS credits, but is also available as a 90-ECTS variant (standard) and can be completed in German or English. You will engage with all essential aspects of modern business management.

• Leadership and Management Skills: The curriculum focuses on leadership, developing leadership personalities, as well as responsible decision-making in an international and intercultural context.
• Business Core Subjects: You will learn and apply the basics of corporate finance, managerial economics, international marketing, and performance management.
• Innovation and Entrepreneurship: You will deal with innovation management, entrepreneurship, and strategies for sustaining successful business models.
• Strategic Management: Modules such as Strategic Management, Business Ethics & Corporate Governance will enable you to approach entrepreneurial challenges strategically and assess them ethically.
• Operations & Information Management: Operational business processes, digitization, and management tools are at the core of modern business leadership.
• Specializations and Electives: You choose individual focal points, e.g. in Digital Insurance, Health Care Management, IT Management, Big Data, or International Marketing.
• Practical Project: Your Capstone Thesis and defence are highly practice-oriented: you work on a specific company problem and present independent solutions.

A strong emphasis is placed on scientific work methods, digital tools, case studies, and reflecting on societal and intercultural aspects. Soft skills such as communication, analytical thinking, and leadership are specifically promoted.

How does the MBA distance learning program at IU work?

The study program is flexibly designed and can be completed entirely online, independent of location, and on a full-time or part-time basis. You can choose between different time models (12, 18, or 24 months) that you can adjust as needed.

• Start of Studies: Begin anytime during the year with no application deadlines. Online enrollment is easily possible.
• Digital Learning Environment: You will use the online campus myCampus, the IU Learn app, and the AI assistant Syntea for learning support. All learning materials are available as e-books, multimedia scripts, and videos at all times.
• Examinations: You can take exams online 24/7 or at numerous examination centres. Examination formats range from traditional exams (some as open-book) to assignments and projects, and presentations.
• Virtual Classes: Interactive online seminars, tutorials, and optional live formats support you in understanding and applying the content.
• Support & Community: Professors, over 1,000 tutors, and study coaches accompany you through the program. The Career Service supports career planning.
• Flexibility: If needed, you can extend your study duration free of charge by up to 12 months.

The final thesis (Capstone Project) integrates the knowledge of all modules and involves a practice-oriented topic with a presentation. Study achievements can be credited from previous studies, further education, or professional experience by arrangement.

What career prospects does the MBA open up?

With the MBA from IU International University, you open up excellent development opportunities in middle and upper management in various industries.

• Leadership Positions: The degree qualifies for strategic and managerial roles in companies – such as Corporate Strategy Manager, department head, or managing director.
• Consulting & Business Consulting: Many graduates work as management consultants, business developers, or change managers in consulting firms and project teams.
• Functional Specializations: Your specialization enables entry into areas such as financial management, marketing, HR, supply chain management, or digitalization projects.
• International Management: Language and interculturally oriented modules prepare for global responsibilities, assignments abroad, and international projects.
• Entrepreneurship and Self-Employment: The MBA teaches how to strategically develop and implement own business ideas – also as a founder or entrepreneur.

The degree is state-recognised, FIBAA-accredited, and internationally highly regarded. The MBA offers executives and specialists access to positions with more responsibility and better salary prospects.

Costs, fees and financing options

The costs for the Master of Business Administration distance learning programme (60 ECTS) vary depending on the chosen time model:

• Full-time (12 months): 729 € per month – total costs approx. 9.547 €
• Part-time I (18 months): 569 € per month – total costs approx. 11.041 €
• Part-time II (24 months): 449 € per month – total costs approx. 11.575 €

Regular discount promotions offer savings on tuition fees. The tuition includes all services such as digital learning materials, access to the online library, personal career coaching and optional live lectures. A non-binding trial month allows you to test the programme for free at the start.

• Financing options: Education funds, private student loans, tax deduction as income-related expenses and various regional funding programmes. IU also accepts individual recognition of prior learning (e.g. from previous studies or further training), which can further reduce costs.

Thanks to the digital learning concept, there are no expenses for textbooks or on-site travel. Semester breaks and extensions (up to 12 months) are available free of charge if you need more time.