Strategic Management and Consulting, Master of Science

Who is the Master’s in Strategic Management and Consulting suitable for?

The Master’s degree programme Strategic Management and Consulting at CBS University of Applied Sciences is aimed at graduates who are interested in the development and implementation of corporate strategies and who specifically aspire to a career in management consulting, corporate management, or strategic consulting. The English-language on-campus programme offers you a thorough, practice-oriented education at the interface of management, innovation, and digitalisation. It is particularly addressed to bachelor graduates from business-related subjects or similar fields of study who wish to deepen their knowledge in strategic management and consulting – both nationally and internationally.

Admission requirements for the Master’s in Strategic Management and Consulting

• First completed university degree: A bachelor’s degree or equivalent academic qualification is required – usually in a business, management-related, or a related subject area.
• English language proficiency: Since the programme is taught entirely in English, you must provide proof of your English skills – for example through recognised language certificates (TOEFL, IELTS) or proof that your first degree was completed in English.
• Personal selection procedure: There is no numerus clausus (NC) and no waiting periods. Instead, an individual selection procedure takes place, which usually includes a digital applicant interview (assessment interview).
• Online application: The application is submitted online. After reviewing your documents, you may be invited to an interview.
• Application deadlines: The application deadline is open throughout the year. Early application is recommended for the start of the winter semester.

Personal prerequisites and requirements

• Analytical thinking: You should enjoy analysing business models, markets, and data and be able to think strategically.
• Openness to international and digital topics: Since the programme is offered in English and with an international market perspective, interest in global topics and new technologies is important.
• Communication and teamwork skills: Successful consultants frequently work in teams and interact with decision-makers from companies.
• Commitment and initiative: The practical orientation of the course requires you to actively contribute, for example in projects, case studies, or company collaborations.
• Fundamentals in economics: Basic knowledge of business administration, economics, or management is advantageous – missing prior knowledge can, depending on the individual case, be compensated by bridging courses.

What Awaits You in the Master’s Programme Strategic Management and Consulting?

In the four-semester master’s programme Strategic Management and Consulting at CBS University of Applied Sciences in Cologne, you will acquire advanced management skills to support companies in developing and implementing business strategies. The programme is conducted entirely in English and comprises 120 ECTS credits.

Programme Content in Detail

The programme combines economic theory with practical projects. You will gain knowledge in strategic corporate management, digitalisation, sustainable business practices, as well as modern consulting methods.

• Economic Fundamentals: Business Economics, Corporate Governance, Value Based Management
• Strategy and Innovation: Strategic Analysis & Management, Innovation Management & Digital Transformation, Strategic Renewal & Digital Business Models
• Data Analysis and Digitalisation: Data Science, Business Intelligence, Industry 4.0 & System Engineering
• Management and Responsibility: Corporate Social Responsibility, Sustainable Supply Chain Management, Environmental Impact Management and Marketing
• Consulting Skills: Consulting Techniques, Evidence-Based Problem Solving (CaseLab), Strategic Investment Decision & Risk Management
• Practical Projects and Application: Business Project, Business Simulation Game, Venture Lab, Integrative Case Studies
• Electives: Business Elective, Interdisciplinary Elective (for individual specialisation)
• Personal Competence Development: Assessment Center Bootcamp, Language & Communication Skills, Event Management (TED Talk Seminar)
• Internationality & Practice: Internship or Study Abroad
• Graduation: Master Thesis, supported by the Master Thesis Tutorial

The focus lies on linking theory, data-based analyses and real business challenges.

Course Structure: How the Master’s Programme is Organised

The course is modular and lasts four semesters:

• 1st Semester: Fundamentals of Economics, Strategic Analysis, Innovation, Data Competence and Consulting Skills
• 2nd Semester: Specialisation in Sustainability, Responsible Corporate Management, Practical Application through Business Project as well as Elective Modules
• 3rd Semester: Practice-oriented projects such as Business Simulation Game, Venture Lab as well as further specialisations and preparation for the thesis
• 4th Semester: Focus on Master Thesis (18 ECTS) and Practical Experience (Internship or Study Abroad, 10 ECTS)

The curriculum is complemented by accompanying seminars (e.g. Event Management), boot camps, and the option to set individual priorities through elective modules.

Career Opportunities and Professional Prospects

With a Master of Science degree in Strategic Management and Consulting, you qualify for a wide range of positions both in Germany and abroad. Graduates are particularly sought after in the following professional fields:

• Strategic Consultant: Development and implementation of long-term corporate strategies
• Business Development Manager: Identification of new business areas and development of growth markets
• Management Consultant: Optimisation of business processes and organisational structures
• Strategic Planner: Analysis of market and company data, management of transformation processes

Typical sectors of employment include management consultancies, start-ups, the IT sector, banking, technology companies, logistics, chemical and pharmaceutical industries as well as all international corporations requiring strategic expertise. Self-employment or a position in corporate management are also feasible.

Location: Cologne – Campus with a Network

The programme is offered at the Cologne Campus of CBS University of Applied Sciences. Here you study at a modern university location in the centre of the Rhineland economic region and benefit from a large network of over 1,300 corporate partners and diverse practical opportunities. Campus life combines personal interaction, modern infrastructure and digital teaching formats.

Costs and Financing of the Master’s Programme

The tuition fees for the master’s programme Strategic Management and Consulting are:

• Per semester: 5,970 €
• Total cost for four semesters: 23,880 €

Various funding options are available, e.g. BAföG, scholarships and financing cooperation with practical partners in dual or part-time study programmes. CBS offers advice on individual financing.