E-Commerce & Logistics, Master of Science

Who is the Master’s programme in E-Commerce & Logistics suitable for?

The Master’s degree programme in E-Commerce & Logistics at Hochschule Fresenius is aimed at graduates of business-related Bachelor’s programmes who seek advanced qualifications in the fields of e-commerce, online retail, and logistics management. Typical target groups are graduates starting their careers with a first university degree as well as professionals who want to take on management roles in international online retail and logistics companies. The programme is particularly suitable for individuals interested in the interfaces between digital business models, supply chain management, and corporate strategy.

Which admission requirements must you meet?

To be admitted to the Master’s programme in E-Commerce & Logistics, you must provide evidence of the following formal criteria:

• Completed Bachelor’s degree with at least 180 ECTS credits
• At least 60 ECTS credits in the field of economics or business administration
• Proof of English language skills at level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)

Ideally, you have already taken modules in economics, management or economics (VWL) during your Bachelor’s studies. Applications from other academic backgrounds will be considered individually, provided that the economic components can be demonstrated.

You should be able to think analytically and have a strong interest in digital business models, international markets, and logistical processes. Initiative, teamwork skills and openness to intercultural issues are important personal requirements. Initial experience in e-commerce, logistics or project management – for example through internships or student jobs – is advantageous but not mandatory. For the English-language programme, a willingness to actively communicate and work in international teams is expected.

Course Content in Detail: What Will You Learn in the Master’s in E-Commerce & Logistics?

In the Master’s degree programme E-Commerce & Logistics at Hochschule Fresenius, you will acquire comprehensive and specialised knowledge about online retail and modern logistics systems. The programme provides you with solid knowledge of business fundamentals, in-depth expertise in the e-commerce sector, as well as skills in supply chain and logistics management.

• Introduction to E-Commerce and Logistics: Overview of the entire value chain and current industry developments.
• IT Solutions in E-Commerce: Application of industry-specific information systems, e.g. for inventory management, fulfilment, and shipping processes.
• Operations Management: Practical knowledge of warehousing, goods flows, fulfilment, and parcel shipping.
• Portfolio Design and Digital Sales Channels: Development and management of product portfolios as well as managing digital sales channels.
• Strategic Sourcing: Planning and controlling procurement in global e-commerce environments.
• Digital Marketing Management: Integration of online retail and digital marketing strategies to strengthen sales and the supply chain.
• Service Relationships: Targeted management of relationships between retailers, service providers, and end customers.

In the third semester, you have the opportunity to sharpen your profile through an elective module. The options available are:

• Corporate Finance
• Sustainability Management & CSR in a Global Context
• Consumer Behavior & Psychology
• Strategic Marketing & Brand Management

Alternatively, you can complete an internship or choose to study abroad for a semester. Methodological competence is enhanced through case studies, group projects, workshops, excursions, and guest lectures.

Course Structure: How Is the Master’s Programme Organised?

The course is structured as a four-semester full-time on-campus programme in Cologne, comprising a total of 120 ECTS. It is organised according to the MAPS scheme:

• Markets (1st semester): Fundamentals of e-commerce and the logistics industry are taught.
• Application (2nd semester): Focus on IT applications, practical knowledge in operations management, warehousing, fulfilment, and parcel shipping.
• Progress (3rd semester): Expansion through portfolio management, digital sales channels, and strategic sourcing.
• Strengthen (4th semester): Deepening through digital marketing as well as service and customer relationship management. Concludes with the master’s thesis.

In the third semester, you can take elective modules, complete an internship, or spend a semester abroad. The study plan provides a close integration of practical projects and theoretical reflection. Guest lectures, excursions, and workshops with industry experts broaden your practical understanding.

Career Prospects & Employment Opportunities After Graduation

With a Master of Science in E-Commerce & Logistics, you qualify for demanding positions at the interface between online retail and logistics. Typical professional fields include:

• E-commerce retailers and platform operators
• Online marketplaces and global import/export agencies
• IT solution providers for logistics and retail
• Companies in warehousing, fulfilment, global shipping, and data analysis
• Online marketing agencies focusing on SEA/SEO as well as digital channel managers
• Logistics service providers (3PL, 4PL), freight forwarding companies, and parcel services

You can work in management roles at international trading companies or logistics service providers, as well as take on consulting roles, e.g. in the implementation of digital sales systems. The degree also opens up the possibility to pursue doctoral studies.

Study Location: An Overview of the Cologne Campus

The programme takes place at the Hochschule Fresenius campus in Cologne. The campus is located centrally in the MediaPark, in close proximity to numerous media, retail, and logistics companies. In addition to modern seminar rooms, you benefit from excellent technical infrastructure, libraries, coworking spaces, and strong practical relevance through the university-wide network to companies. Workshops, excursions, and networking events with industry representatives are integral parts of the curriculum. The central location enables an optimal combination of study, practical experience, and leisure time in the vibrant city of Cologne.

Costs and Financing Options: What Should You Budget For?

The tuition fees amount to a total of 21,715 Euro for the entire duration of the programme (four semesters). Alternatively, payment in monthly instalments of 880 Euro is possible. In addition, depending on individual needs, costs may arise for learning materials, excursions, and potentially living expenses in Cologne.

You have various options to finance your studies:

• Scholarship programmes from Hochschule Fresenius and external foundations
• BAföG (depending on personal eligibility)
• KfW student loans and other education loans
• Employer funding for part-time further education models
• Installment payment models available via the university

Detailed advice on loans and funding is provided directly by the finance advisory service at Hochschule Fresenius.