Social Management studies in Germany: Private Universities from €197

How much does a social management degree cost at a private university?

Tuition fees for social management at private universities in Germany range from €197 to €560 per month. Total programme costs range from €9,547 to €20,160. The most affordable options are distance learning programmes; campus-based programmes with mandatory attendance are at the upper end.

Bachelor’s: cost comparison

The dual bachelor’s “Business Administration – Social Management” at IU International University is not listed in the table, as tuition is typically covered by the practice partner.

Master’s: cost comparison

All three master’s programmes are designed for working professionals and can be completed part-time or via distance learning. Entry requirements typically include a first degree in social work, pedagogy or a related field.

Financing your studies

• BAföG: All listed universities are BAföG-eligible. The maximum monthly grant is €992 (as of 2025). International students may qualify under certain conditions.
• Tax deductions: Tuition fees for a second degree (master’s, part-time bachelor’s) are fully deductible as income-related expenses (Werbungskosten) in Germany.
• Employer support: Many social sector employers support their staff’s further education financially or through time off.
• Scholarships: Options include the Deutschlandstipendium (€300/month) and university-specific scholarships.

Is the investment worth it?

Compared to a part-time MBA (often €10,000–30,000), social management programmes are significantly more affordable. At the same time, they enable the move from operational roles to leadership positions – with a typical salary increase of €800–1,500/month. Study costs typically pay for themselves within one to two years of graduation.

How do costs compare internationally?

Social management tuition at German private universities (€9,547–€20,160 total) is significantly lower than comparable programmes in the UK (£9,250/year for domestic students, £15,000–£25,000 for international students) or the US ($20,000–$50,000/year). All German programmes listed here are state-accredited and lead to internationally recognised degrees (Bachelor/Master of Arts).

What study formats are available for social management?

Social management is a typical career-advancement subject – most students are already working in the social sector. Flexible formats dominate:

• Distance learning (7 programmes): The largest selection. Providers include IU, DIPLOMA, SRH Fernhochschule, Fresenius University, APOLLON and Euro-FH. Most exams can be taken online.
• Part-time/blended (3 programmes): FHM University offers both bachelor’s and master’s in block seminars at locations including Berlin, Bielefeld and Cologne.
• Full-time campus (2 programmes): NBS in Hamburg and Dresden University of Applied Sciences offer traditional on-campus programmes.
• Dual studies (1 programme): IU offers a dual bachelor’s combining academic study with a practice partner. Tuition is usually covered by the employer.

Language of instruction: Most social management programmes are taught in German. If you are looking for English-taught programmes, check the IU International University, which offers some related programmes in English. For the programmes listed here, German language proficiency at B2–C1 level is typically required.

What are the entry requirements?

Private universities in Germany do not apply a numerus clausus (NC) for social management. Admission is based on the university’s own selection process, which is typically straightforward.

Bachelor’s: You need a higher education entrance qualification – either the German Abitur, Fachhochschulreife, or an equivalent international qualification recognised in Germany. Several universities (IU, DIPLOMA, FHM) also admit students without a traditional school-leaving certificate if they have relevant professional experience or a vocational qualification (e.g. Meister).

Master’s: A first degree is required – ideally in social work, pedagogy or business administration. FHM and DIPLOMA additionally require one to two years of professional experience.

For international students: Your school-leaving certificate must be recognised in Germany. Check the anabin database for equivalency. Some universities accept WES or uni-assist evaluations. German language proficiency (B2–C1) is required for most programmes.

Accreditation: All programmes listed here are accredited by a recognised agency (e.g. FIBAA, ACQUIN, ZEvA) or system-accredited, and lead to state-recognised degrees (Bachelor/Master of Arts). Private universities in Germany are subject to the same quality standards as public universities.

What career prospects does social management offer?

Social management graduates take on leadership and strategic roles in social institutions – from day-care centre management to executive positions at welfare associations and non-profit organisations. They fill a niche: business competence combined with social science understanding. Typical career paths include:

• Facility management: Day-care centres, youth welfare facilities, care homes, residential groups
• Executive roles at non-profit organisations, welfare associations and charitable foundations
• Quality management: Developing and implementing QM systems in social institutions
• Project management: Planning, funding applications and evaluation of social programmes
• Social entrepreneurship: Founding and leading social enterprises

Demand for management expertise in the social sector is rising: over 2.1 million people work in the industry in Germany, and the Federal Employment Agency lists health and social services among the sectors with the most severe skills shortages.

Salaries vary by employer type (public-sector institutions under TVöD pay more than private carriers), region (Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria highest) and organisation size. Sources: gehalt.de, StepStone Salary Report 2025.

Which private universities offer social management?

Over 10 private universities offer social management as a bachelor’s or master’s programme. Key distinguishing features – complementing the format overview above:

• IU International University: Broadest selection (distance learning, dual, master’s). All exams online, maximum flexibility.
• FHM: Only provider with a master’s in “Counseling and Social Management” – combining counselling competence with leadership qualification.
• DIPLOMA University: Most affordable master’s (€197/month), over 20 study centres across Germany.
• APOLLON University: Focus on health and social economy. Free 4-week trial period.
• NBS Hamburg and Dresden University of Applied Sciences: Only campus-based providers – for those who prefer in-person study.

Additional distance learning providers: SRH Fernhochschule, Fresenius University and Euro-FH.

Frequently asked questions about social management studies

Related programmes at private universities in Germany

Social management is closely related to several other programmes in the social and health sector. Depending on your career goals, these fields may also be worth exploring:

• Social Work – the professional foundation for direct client work and state recognition
• Pedagogy – focus on education, teaching and training
• Childhood Education – specialising in early childhood education and day-care leadership
• Special Education – working with people with disabilities and developmental needs
• Psychology – scientific foundation for counselling and HR development
• Health Management – management focus on the health sector rather than social services