Who is the Master’s Degree in Philosophy & Economics by Distance Learning Suitable For?

The degree programme is aimed at individuals who want to analyse and actively shape social, economic and ethical issues. It is particularly suitable if you have already completed a business-related first degree and want to expand your skills in the areas of philosophy, economics, management and social change. Typical target groups are professionals from business, consulting, associations, NGOs, as well as from the field of sustainability who wish to take on leadership roles or shape change processes. People from politics, media or the education sector with an interest in interdisciplinary approaches to solutions also benefit from this programme.

Admission Requirements in Detail

The following formal requirements apply for admission to the Master’s programme Philosophy & Economics (M.A.) at Hochschule Fresenius:

• With a suitable first degree: A completed university degree (Bachelor, Diploma or Magister) with at least 180 credit points (CP) is required. The first degree should be relevant to business, humanities or social science subjects.
• With studies and work experience: If your first degree is not directly related, you additionally need at least one year of qualified professional experience in a thematically related field.
• With professional qualification: Applicants without a university degree can be admitted with a completed, preferably thematically appropriate vocational training and at least two years of relevant professional experience as well as a passed aptitude test (for example by means of an essay). A letter of motivation is also required.
• Alternative proof: In individual cases, if credit points or proofs are missing, individual supplementary qualifications may be required (for example through special certificate courses or proof of certain CPs in economics, humanities or social sciences).
• English language skills: For certain modules or international certificates, proof of English language skills at B2 level may be required.
• Numerus clausus (NC): There is no NC. A specific grade point average is not required.
• Start of studies: You can start your studies at any time on the 1st of a month.

Personally, you should have a strong interest in interdisciplinary, social and economic issues. Analytical and critical thinking skills, openness to changing perspectives, flexibility, and the willingness to learn independently in a distance learning programme are advantageous. Initial experience in economic or social work fields is helpful but not mandatory. To successfully complete the programme, a time commitment of about 19 hours per week should be planned.

Study Content in Detail: What Does the Master’s in Philosophy & Economics Teach?

In the distance learning programme Philosophy & Economics (M.A.) at Hochschule Fresenius, you engage with central questions at the intersection of philosophy, economics and society. The curriculum combines analytical, economic and philosophical-ethical thinking with practical management topics. The following core areas are the focus:

• Philosophy and Sociology: You analyse key ideas from philosophy and sociology with regard to social change, questions of justice and cultural participation.
• Academic Working: You develop skills in academic writing, literature research and empirical methods – both in the humanities and economic contexts.
• Political Theories: You deal with current and historical theories on shaping social orders, such as democracy, market economy or global politics in the 21st century.
• Economic and Management Competence: Fundamentals of economics, business administration, management techniques as well as current topics like digital leadership and change management are covered.
• Interdisciplinary Elective Modules: Individual specialisations are possible, e.g. in:
  • Intercultural Psychology
  • Education, Ethics and Sustainability
  • Decision Theories and Behaviour
  • Media in an Interdisciplinary Context
  • “Cultural Turns” in Image and Language
  • Culture(s) – Traditional, Global, Networked
• Competences in Dealing with Change: You learn to identify and manage opportunities and risks of social and economic transformation processes.

After completing the programme, you will be able to holistically analyse economic and social issues from diverse perspectives and develop solutions. You will know different cultural standards, understand processes of globalisation and digital transformation, and acquire key skills in change management as well as in steering sustainable developments.

Course Structure: How is the Distance Learning Programme Organised?

The Philosophy & Economics degree is a consecutive Master’s with 120 ECTS credits and can be completed flexibly in 4, 6 or 8 semesters, i.e. 24 to 48 months. The start date is possible at any time on the 1st of a month. Details of the structure:

• Modular Structure: The course is divided into individual modules and elective areas which you compile yourself and work through at your own pace.
• Digital Learning Environment: You study entirely online via the platform studynet – with digital study magazines (Studymags), teaching videos, e-books, interactive exercises and access to an online library.
• Examinations: Performative assessments such as online exams (partly available 24/7), term papers, presentations via video conference or open-book exams. The number of mandatory in-person sessions is minimised; many exams can be taken fully online.
• Individual Time Management: You can flexibly adjust your learning pace and also extend the standard period of study free of charge by up to 12 months.
• Support: Personal study coaches support you in all organisational and content-related matters. Experienced lecturers are available as contacts for each module.
• Practical Content: Opportunity to further qualify via international certificates from the partner university ASU.

The course is designed as a part-time distance learning programme. You can complete it completely independent of location – a major advantage for working professionals or people with family commitments.

Career Prospects & Job Opportunities: Who Benefits from the Master’s?

Graduates of the distance learning programme Philosophy & Economics (M.A.) have a broad qualification profile that combines analytical thinking, ethical reflection and economic know-how. These competences are in demand:

• Consulting and Change Management: You qualify for roles in change management, especially for accompanying transformation processes in companies, organisations and the public sector.
• Corporate Management and Sustainability Management: Employment fields in sustainability management, CSR departments (Corporate Social Responsibility), strategy development or human resources.
• Governmental and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs): Working on socio-political issues, ethical principle clarification or project work, e.g. in international organisations, foundations or associations.
• Intercultural Management, Media and Education: Areas of work in the media industry, educational institutions, science management, communication or international project management.
• Research and Teaching: The course opens up prospects for roles in research, analytically conceptual project work or an academic career, for example as a basis for a doctorate.

Graduates are sought who look beyond narrow economic or philosophical perspectives and can analyse complex social challenges as well as develop solutions in an international and digital context.