English 
Deutsch Who is the Bachelor's Degree in Applied Data Science & Business Analytics aimed at?
The Bachelor's degree in Applied Data Science & Business Analytics is aimed at school leavers with a university entrance qualification (Abitur) or an equivalent school leaving certificate who have an interest in a combination of business, statistics, and IT technologies. It is particularly intended for applicants who think analytically, enjoy mathematics and working with digital data, and aspire to an international career path at the intersection of Data Science, Business Analytics, and digitalisation. The programme is suitable for German- and English-speaking school graduates who are looking for a career-oriented, English-language on-campus degree with practical and international components.
What formal admission requirements apply for entry?
To be admitted, you must meet the following criteria:
- General university entrance qualification (Abitur), technical college entrance qualification or an equivalent recognised foreign university entrance qualification
- Proof of English language skills at least at level B2 (e.g. through TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge Certificate, or an equivalent certificate)
- Application documents: complete CV, copy of ID card or passport, current certificate/Transcript of Records
- Successful participation in the ISM online application procedure including a selection interview which assesses motivation, ability and personal characteristics
You should have strong analytical thinking skills and enjoy solving complex problems. Mathematical understanding and initial experience with spreadsheets or programming tools will ease your start. Important are self-motivation, willingness to learn, teamwork skills, as well as an interest in economic issues and digital trends. Since the programme is delivered entirely in English, very good English skills and a willingness for intercultural exchange are essential. Practical experience in handling data, first programming skills or a strong connection to current technology and digitalisation topics are advantageous but not mandatory.
Which study contents does the Bachelor Applied Data Science & Business Analytics convey?
In the Bachelor programme Applied Data Science & Business Analytics at the International School of Management (ISM), you acquire comprehensive expertise that connects the fields of business, information technology, and statistics. The course is structured in an interdisciplinary way and imparts skills that are crucial for data-based decision-making in companies.
- Fundamentals of Business Administration and Mathematics: Introductory courses in accounting, marketing, management, economic and corporate mathematics, as well as economics, provide a solid foundation for understanding business contexts.
- Data Analysis & Statistics: You learn methods of data preparation, statistical procedures, and data visualisation to analyse large data volumes in a structured manner.
- Programming & Tools: Development of practical skills in handling programming languages (e.g. Python, R) and data analytics tools to process data efficiently.
- Big Data & Databases: Imparting knowledge about modern technologies, database management, and the application of big data concepts.
- Business Analytics & Digital Transformation: Analysis and use of data to optimise business processes and develop digital business strategies.
- Core Competencies: Training in project management, teamwork, problem-solving, research, and communication, complemented by negotiation and presentation techniques.
- Internationality & Foreign Languages: The studies are conducted 100% in English. Additionally, you can choose another foreign language such as German, French, Italian, or Spanish.
- Specialisation Options: Elective courses such as market analytics, specific programming tools, or advanced data science allow for individual profile building.
An obligatory practical semester abroad as well as several mandatory internships prepare you specifically for the international requirements in the professional field.
How is the course structure organised in the Bachelor Applied Data Science & Business Analytics?
The degree is offered as a full-time on-campus programme and has a standard duration of 6 semesters, with 7 semesters in the Global Track (including a second semester abroad). The curriculum is modular and consists of a mix of compulsory and elective modules, practical phases, and integrative events.
- Language of instruction: English for all courses
- Start of studies: Possible each winter semester (September) and summer semester (March)
- Integrated semester abroad: Compulsory in the 4th semester, optionally a second semester abroad in the 7th semester (Global Track)
- Practical experience: A total of at least 20 weeks of mandatory internships, of which at least 10 weeks must be abroad, complemented by workshops and company excursions
- Double degree (optional): Possibility to additionally obtain a degree at an Australian partner university
- Elective modules: Individual focus areas through subjects such as market analytics, advanced programming, or tools
- Bachelor thesis: Final thesis in the 6th or 7th semester
The daily study routine is characterised by small learning groups, close supervision, and practical teaching by lecturers from industry.
What career opportunities does the study in Data Science and Business Analytics offer you?
Graduates of the programme are in demand in many industries due to the versatile combination of data analysis, business expertise, and technological practice. The increasing importance of data-driven decisions opens up numerous attractive professional fields:
- Data Scientist or Data Analyst: Analysis of large data volumes to identify trends and derive recommendations for action
- Business Analyst: Interface function between IT and specialist departments with a focus on data-driven process optimisation
- IT Consultant for Data Science and Analytics: Advising companies on digitalisation and the use of AI technologies
- Business Intelligence Analyst: Building and using data-driven information systems for operational decisions
- Project management in IT and digitalisation projects
Due to the international orientation and the English-language studies, you are employable both in the German and global markets. Further studies such as a Master‘s degree, for example in Business Intelligence & Data Science, are also available to you.
Where does the on-campus study take place and how is it spatially organised?
The programme is offered at four locations of the International School of Management (ISM). You can choose between:
- Dortmund: Largest campus in the technology park, excellent connections and modern infrastructure
- Frankfurt am Main: Central location in the Sachsenhausen financial district, international environment
- Munich: Central location, close to the main train station and companies of the Bavarian economy
- Hamburg: Modern environment in HafenCity, close to Speicherstadt and the Hamburg business community
The teaching and learning environment is characterised by small groups, personal support, and modern equipped lecture halls. The organisation of the studies is entirely on a face-to-face basis.
How high are the tuition fees and what financing options are available?
The tuition fees for the Bachelor Applied Data Science & Business Analytics at ISM amount to €5,970 per semester. For six semesters, this results in a total amount of €35,820 for the entire programme. Additional costs may arise from semesters abroad, study materials, and living expenses.
- Instalment payment: The fees can be paid in monthly or semester instalments.
- Scholarships: ISM awards various scholarships to high-achieving or particularly committed students.
- Discounts: Discounts are possible for early contract signing, for example when signing by 15 March or 15 December for the following semester.
- Funding options: Support via BAföG, education loans, or external funding programmes is possible (assessment depending on individual cases).
Due to the international focus, individual support, and close cooperation with practical partners, the programme offers an attractive overall package for entering a future-proof profession.
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