English 
Deutsch Who is the dual Master's programme in Digital Transformation Management suitable for?
The dual Master's programme in Digital Transformation Management is aimed at graduates of business and economics courses who want to deepen their knowledge and further develop their skills while working. The target group includes individuals who want to take on management responsibilities in digital transformation processes and are seeking to directly transfer academic knowledge into practical business settings. It particularly appeals to professionals interested in innovation, artificial intelligence, and change management, aiming for a leadership position in the fields of Digital Business, E-Commerce, Tourism, or Health Management. This study model offers flexibility and enables students to combine their studies with practical work in companies regardless of location.
What formal admission requirements must you meet?
To be admitted to the dual Master's programme, you need to have a completed Bachelor's degree in business and economics (at least 6 semesters, 180 ECTS) from a university, university of applied sciences, dual university, or a comparable degree from an accredited German or foreign university. Bachelor's degrees from vocational academies are also accepted. Additionally, you must demonstrate at least 60 ECTS points in modules related to business and economics, including fundamentals of business administration, accounting, management, process management, business informatics, business law, business mathematics, statistics, economics, and academic work. If the ECTS points are insufficient, you can make up for the required competencies through bridging courses.
Another requirement is English proficiency at least at B2 level: Either through a corresponding school certificate (at least seven years of English) or a certificate according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Furthermore, a cooperating training company is required for the practical phase in the company.
You should have a strong interest in digital business models, innovation, and technological developments. Analytical thinking, self-motivation, and the willingness to take on responsibilities and actively shape organizational change processes are essential. Communication skills and openness to interdisciplinary collaboration are important for success in the dual study routine. Experience in applying business and economic methods, as well as basic knowledge in management, IT, or related fields, facilitate entry into the programme.
What content does the dual Master's programme in Business Transformation Management convey?
In the dual Master's programme Business Transformation Management, the focus is on digital transformation and Artificial Intelligence (AI). The programme provides you with solid knowledge in business economics, which is specifically linked to current competencies in digitization, technology, and management. The curriculum is divided into three main areas:
- General Management: Topics such as Digital Transformation, Leadership Skills, Personnel Management, Operational Risk Management, and Legal Management.
- Specialization Courses: Specializations in Innovation and Process Management, Entrepreneurship and Business Development, Artificial Intelligence, Digital Marketing, and IT Management. Also focusing on Change Management and entrepreneurial change processes.
- Individual Elective Modules: You can design your own course of study - for example, with "Global Innovation Management," "Communication Psychology," "Agile Organizational and Customer Management," "Research Project Innovation and Management," "Ethics and Sustainability," or modules from the fields of Tourism and Hotel Management as well as Health Management.
You will develop distinct skills for managing innovation processes, learn to analyze digital business models, and successfully implement change strategies in the company. Additionally, you will acquire competencies in Business Analytics and learn how to implement the use of AI and digital tools across industries.
- Option to specialize in Tourism and Hotel Management or Health Management through industry-specific elective modules and Master's thesis
- Strongly practice-oriented study element - such as the simulation game "Going Global" for simulating international management decisions
- Completion with an internationally recognized Master of Arts degree and 120 ECTS
How is the dual study program organized and structured in terms of process?
The dual study program combines academic theory with professional practice in the company. The program is designed for a 5-semester standard period of study, with three additional semesters free of charge available for any extensions. The organization includes:
- Self-study with specially prepared study booklets as the core of the teaching
- Online formats: Supplementary online lectures, tutorials, and exercises for in-depth study and exchange
- Seminar days in selected modules provide practical relevance and networking opportunities
- Digital learning environment: Online campus, app-based learning, freely allocable learning times
- Individual elective modules: Two elective modules determine your personal focus
- Flexible exam options: Exams can be taken online or at various examination locations in Germany
The program is designed so that you work in parallel in the company and can immediately apply the learned content in everyday practice. At the end, there is the Master's thesis - with a sector-specific focus if desired - including a colloquium. In total, you complete the program with 120 ECTS credits.
What career prospects and fields does the degree open up?
With a Master's in Business Transformation Management, you open up excellent career opportunities in the digital economy and in all industries shaped by digitization. You will be able to take on leadership and specialist tasks related to digital innovation, AI implementation, and Change Management. Possible fields of activity include:
- Digital Transformation Manager - Steering and implementing transformation projects in companies
- Digital Business Manager - Development and implementation of digital business models and strategies
- Data Analyst - Analysis and processing of large amounts of data to support decision-making
- Change Manager - Planning and leading change processes through digital innovations
- Positions in Business Development, Innovation Management, Consulting, Project Management as well as in (online) Marketing, Product Management, E-Commerce, and Controlling
Across industries - whether in industry, commerce, the service sector, healthcare, or tourism - with this degree, you are optimally prepared for future leadership roles. The acquired methodological competence in technology, leadership, and business economics also qualifies you for a doctorate following the program.
At which locations and with what spatial organization do you study?
The program is offered nationwide as a dual distance learning program, allowing you to learn and work mostly independently of location. The headquarters of the university is in Düsseldorf, where seminar days can also take place. Exams can be flexibly taken online or at various examination centers:
- Attend in-person sessions at locations such as Düsseldorf, Essen, Frankfurt am Main, Hanover, Hamburg, Berlin, Munich, Weil am Rhein, Jena, Donaueschingen, and in the Stuttgart area
- Additional exam options in Innsbruck (Austria) as well as worldwide (on request)
- Up to three online exam dates per month
- Individual coordination of practical times in the respective partner company
All learning materials, online events, and learning apps enable maximum flexibility so that you can combine the program with your respective living and working situation.
What costs can you expect and how is the financing done?
The tuition fees for the dual Master's in Business Transformation Management amount to 415 € per month over 5 semesters (12,450 € total). The fees cover all costs for exams, seminars, materials, and support - there are no additional fees.
- In general, the training company covers the tuition fees. The individual training salary is agreed directly with the employer.
- If no company covers the costs, you can benefit from tax advantages, scholarships, or special funding programs for dual students.
- An extension of the study program by up to three semesters is possible free of charge.
The cost structure makes planning the study program straightforward. Please check the individual regulations with your employer early on.
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