International Business at H-BRS:
Where Global Thinking Meets Practical Skills

Step into the world of international markets, dynamic cultures, and extended educational, practical, and study-abroad opportunities. The English-taught International Business program at Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg equips you with the skills, knowledge, and global mindset to thrive in today’s interconnected business landscape.

The programme at a glance

Degree
Bachelor of Science (BSc), 210 ECTS

Standard period of study
7 semesters total (including an extended mobility window for a flexible use of internships or study abroad semester)

Teaching language
English + learning of another foreign language is compulsory within the study program

Begin of the study programme
Each winter semester (mid-September)

Study location
Campus Sankt Augustin (Bonn-Rhein-Sieg Region/Germany)

Fees
No tuition fees; only a regular semester contribution (approx. €330 per semester); Further information about semester contributions can be found at: www.h-brs.de/en/fees.

Available spots
70 per semester

Specifics of the study programme:

• extended study-abroad opportunities
• optional practical semester in Germany or abroad
• strong focus on languages, intercultural skills, and specialized knowledge
• internationally and practice-oriented curriculum
• learning experience in a multicultural community
• affordable education offer at a private university level

Application Requirements

Admission documents 

Prospects must provide evidence of of the following:

• a general school leaving certificate/university entrance qualification (Allgemeine Hochschulreife/Abitur),
• or an entrance qualification for universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulreife),
• or a relevant professional qualification or a qualification acknowledged as equivalent by the competent authorities
• and applicants must demonstrate English proficiency at level B2 CEFR
  - For applicants with a German university entrance qualification: English proficiency at level B2 CEFR is already met.
  - For applicants without an English-language secondary school diploma or academic degree: Proof of English proficiency is required through an accepted English language test.

Recognition of Foreign Educational Certificates (for German Applicants)

• German applicants with foreign educational certificates can apply for recognition of their eligibility to study at universities in Germany.
• Educational qualifications must be recognized as equivalent to a German general or subject-specific university entrance qualification.

Where to Apply for Recognition?

• If you reside in Germany: Apply to the competent authority in your federal state.
• If you do not reside in Germany: Submit your application to the Certificate Recognition Office (Kultusministerium) of the Düsseldorf District Government (Bezirksregierung Düsseldorf).

Detailed information on admission options and a list of accepted English certificate tests are available via our application information website.  

Application deadline

The annual application deadline for the International Business program is July 15th.

Application procedure 

The application for the International Business Study Degree Programme is to be made online via the campus management system "Apollo" of Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg. Before the upload of the application documents, online registration is neccessary via “Hochschulstart”.
Please find more information about the application procedure online via our online application website APOLLO.
Information about the application procedure can be found on the website of the Registrar's Office.

Semester fees

We do not charge any tuition fees for the study programme. Students must pay a regular semester contribution of approx. € 330 only, as . Further information about semester contributions can be found at: www.h-brs.de/en/fees.

Admission restrictions

The admission to the Bachelor’s study programme in International Business is restricted. In restricted bachelor study programmes 7 % of the study places are kept for non-EU applicants.

Curriculum & Programme Structure

The International Business study programme offers a comprehensive education in global business management, preparing students for successful international careers. The program is structured over seven semesters, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience. 

Program Structure
 

• 1st–4th Semester: Foundational Studies
  • The first three/four semesters focus on providing a solid foundation in the following areas: 
  • Fundamentals of Business Administration and Economics
    - Business Administration,
    - International Business Law,
    - Finance and Cost Accounting
    - Mathematics and Statistics
    - Micro- and Macroeconomics
  • Foreign Language and International Competence Studies:
    - Language and Intercultural Communication courses are also integral parts of the first three semesters
    
    These modules in the first four semesters prepare students for advanced topics and practical applications in later semesters.
     

• Semesters 4-5: Specializations
  • Electives courses (future skills development in Digital Balance, Self Management, Resilience, Emotional Intelligence, etc.) 
  • Business Simulation and Applied Interntional Project Management 
  • Starting from the 4th semester, students choose two specializations (18 CP). Students can benefit from the range of major specializations that are offered at Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg University of Applied Sciences and the university partners worldwide. Students choose two specializations from the following options at the Department of Management Sciences:
    • International Management
    • Business-to-Business Marketing
    • International Financial Management
    • Sustainability Management
    • Sales Management
    • + Students can take specialization courses abroad
    • + Students can take further courses from the course portfolio in the Department of Management Sciences (courses are offered in German language only!)
      
       
• Semester 6: Practical or Study Abroad Experience
  • Compulsory internship or study abroad semester allows flexible scheduling: 
    - Students can undertake a 20-week full-time internship in Germany or abroad
    - or spend one semester at one of our 90 partner universities or a university of choice
    
     
• Semester 7: Final Phase and Thesis
  • In the seventh and final semester, the program concludes with the Bachelor's Thesis (12 CP; potentially in collaboration with a company or partner university) and concludes with a thesis defense (colloquium), allowing students to demonstrate their expertise and research findings
  • Complementary modules are also part of the last semester, such as:
    - Business Ethics & CSR Management
    - International Strategic Management

This structure ensures that graduates are well-equipped with the knowledge and future skills necessary to professionally navigate and succeed in the global business environment.

Study Programme Curriculum & Module Catalogue

Please find the detailed course descriptions of each module in the course syllabus and an overview of the curriculum on our website "International Business Curriculum and Module Catalogue". 

International Focus

The International Business Bachelor’s program is designed to prepare students for the global business environment. It equips graduates with the skills needed for careers in multinational companies, international organizations, and globally active enterprises.  The international focus of the program is reflected in the following areas:

• Multicultural Learning Environment
  Study alongside international students and benefit from an intercultural exchange.
   
• Integrated Study Abroad
  Gain global experience through a semester abroad at one of our partner universities. 
   
• International Curriculum
  Courses cover global business strategies, intercultural management, and international economics.
   
• Foreign Languages
  Improve your language skills with courses in English and further foreign languages.
   
• Practical Experience
  Optional internships abroad help students build an international career network.
   

Extended Mobility Window in 5.-7. Semester

One of the highlights of the program is the compulsory mobility window, which allows students to gain valuable international experience. Students can complete study-abroad semesters within the extended mobility window in the 5th and 7th semesters. The study-abroad semester can be undertaken at one of our partner universities or at non-partner institutions. 

To further develop students' international and professional skills, the 6th semester typically includes an internship abroad or a study-abroad semester (30 ECTS). If the study-abroad semester is completed in the 5th or 7th semester, the coursework replaces the equivalent semester’s coursework at Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg. If completed in the 6th semester, it replaces the internship.

In total, students can spend up to three semesters gaining practical and/or study-abroad experience.
 

Double Degree Option

A double degree option is possible at some of our international partner universities abroad, in selected cases. 

Partner Universities Abroad

Our extensive network of partner institutions includes universities across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas, offering students a diverse and enriching academic experience. We offer a wide range of partner universities in the following countries:

• Australia                                 
• Austria
• Bulgaria
• Canada
• China
• Croatia
• Czech Republic
• Finland
• France
• Ghana
• Great Britain
• Ireland
• Italy
• Jordan
• Latvia
• The Netherlands
• South Korea
• Spain
• Uruguay
• USA

For more information about our international partnerships and available exchange opportunities, please visit https://www.h-brs.de/en/io/international-partnerships.

Practical Approach 

Practical Components and Applications

The International Business program is designed to provide students with a highly practical and hands-on learning experience. The curriculum integrates real-world applications through various methods, including

• case studies,
• practical projects,
• business simulations,
• group work projects, 
• project management tasks,  
• and the practical semester.

These elements ensure that students develop the necessary skills to thrive in today’s dynamic business environment.
 

The Internship Semester

A key feature of the program is the internship semester, which plays an essential role in bridging the gap between academic learning and practical experience. During this duration on a minimum of 20 weeks in full-time, students have the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world business settings, gaining valuable insights into the workings of international companies and industries.
 

Lecturers from Academia, Research and Practice

Moreover, the seminar content is designed to be highly practice-oriented. Professors and lecturers from academic backgrounds, research, and, most importantly, industry bring their wealth of experience into the classroom. This blend of academic expertise and practical know-how ensures that students receive an education that is both academically rigorous and professionally relevant, equipping them for successful careers in international business.

Career Prospects

Professional Career Paths

The Bachelor‘s degree in International Business (BSc) provides a strong foundation for students‘ future careers. With a broad-based education, graduates will be equipped to handle diverse international business tasks and responsibilities.

The programme enables them to analyze real-world challenges and take on managerial roles independently. In today’s globalized economy, businesses seek qualified, experienced professionals, and the career and salary prospects are promising. Our graduates are well-prepared to meet these demands across various industries, including:

• Logistics
• Human Resource Management
• Consulting
• Management Accounting and Control
• Finance
• Business Informatics
• Auditing
• Marketing (B2B and B2C)

Further Academic Master Studies 

The Bachelor's degree in International Business, with 210 ECTS credits, qualifies graduates for further Master's studies at a university of their choice. Building on the bachelor‘s degree programme in International Business (BSc), our University also offers advanced master‘s degree programmes in Marketing (MSc), Controlling and Management (MSc), or Innovation and Information Management (MSc).

Campus Life

The Bonn-Rhein-Sieg Region

Located in North Rhine-Westphalia, the Bonn-Rhein-Sieg region offers a perfect mix of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and modern infrastructure. The city of Bonn, former capital of West Germany, is rich in history and culture, while the picturesque Rhine River and Siebengebirge mountains offer plenty of outdoor activities. With proximity to major cities like Cologne and Düsseldorf, students enjoy access to vibrant professional, cultural, and recreational opportunities, making it an ideal place for both study and leisure.

Additionally, the region is a hub for business and innovation, with a strong presence of international companies, research institutions, and startups. This provides students with excellent opportunities for internships, networking, and career development. Whether you're looking for cultural experiences, nature, or professional prospects, the Bonn-Rhein-Sieg region offers the perfect environment for both academic and personal growth.

The Campus

The campus of Bonn-Rhein-Sieg University offers modern facilities, including well-equipped lecture halls, research labs, and collaborative spaces. Set in a scenic, green environment, it provides a peaceful atmosphere for studying and socializing. Located close to the vibrant cities of Bonn, Cologne, and Düsseldorf, the campus offers students excellent networking opportunities and access to cultural and professional experiences. The combination of cutting-edge infrastructure and a supportive academic community makes it an ideal place for personal and academic growth.