Digitalization and Innovation M.B.A.

The modules of the Master’s program are designed to provide a comprehensive skill set that matches the disruptive nature of 21st century markets. They connect innovation management and ideation with digital aspects such as data security, data analytics and digital business models.

To make these learnings applicable on a leadership level, we also share our knowledge and expertise about strategic and financial frameworks, project management and other leadership topics. Our teaching includes various modern methods such as cloud-based simulations, haptic management games and case studies. 

With this Master’s program, you gain

• an interdisciplinary skill set to unleash your creative potential at the intersection of digitalization and management,
• the know-how to initiate practical innovations within a company or your own start-up,
• excellent career perspectives, e.g. in innovation management, strategic management, consulting, or as a founder,
• German language skills of at least level B1 at graduation.

In addition, you benefit from

• an innovative and diverse mix of teaching methods - virtual learning, blended learning, simulations and case studies besides regular lectures,
• development of your intercultural competence,
• valuable work experience gained during the internship semesters.

An overview of the skills to be acquired in each module can be found in the program's skills matrix.

At Hof University Graduate School, all our programs are practice-oriented, interactive and multimedia-based. Teaching is based on application-oriented knowledge and is supported by projects with industry, site visits and interaction with experts. Case studies as well as real-life business examples contribute to profound insights into the theoretical knowledge.

Our professors (all with PhD) and lecturers are experts in their respective fields bringing together solid scientific understanding with valuable professional experience. Thus, the knowledge transfer from business life to the classroom is ensured.

In addition, we have a strong focus on career promoting activities for students (e.g. career talks, job fairs, seminars and trainings). A three-day team-building event is a highlight for our third and fourth semester students. It includes an industrial visit and is a great opportunity for students and professors to meet outside the campus. Through an intensive exchange of ideas and networking, a connection is established beyond the point of graduation.

• The standard period of study is 4 semesters.
• The Master’s program contains 12 modules, 5 ECTS per module (4 basic modules + 8 core modules).

• The first two semesters provide practice orientated theory (case studies, working in labs, excursions, expert meetings…).
• The third and fourth semester is spent working as an intern in a company to gain more practical experience. The Master Thesis has to be written during this time as well.

• After successful completion of the program, Hof University of Applied Sciences awards the academic degree Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.).

Semester 1 and 2:

The Master’s program consists of 12 modules, each worth 5 ECTS, divided into four basic modules and eight core modules.

The basic modules focus on building fundamental, interdisciplinary skills, while the core modules provide in-depth knowledge essential to this specific Master's program.

Basic modules (all mandatory)

• Applied Economics and Intercultural Management
• Strategy, Finance and Entrepreneurship
• German Language 1*
• German Language 2*

* Mandatory with German levels of A1-B1 at the point of admission; different language course levels available depending on the student's German level at the beginning of their studies in Hof

Core modules (all mandatory)

• Innovation Management
• Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, and Internet of Things
• Digital Business Models
• IT-Security
• AI in Coding and Software Engineering
• Project Management
• Leadership and Change Management
• Elective 

Semester 3 and 4: Internship and Master's Thesis

The 3rd and 4th semester are dedicated to an internship (30 ECTS) in a company, a practical Master's Thesis (25 ECTS) and a Scientific Preparation Training (5 ECTS). For entering the internship, all students have to prove at least the German language level B1.
 

Master's Thesis

• Application of the methodological procedures which were obtained and trained during the entire program.
• The thesis should be written during the internship and should cover a current topic of the company.
• Topic selection has to be done in accordance with the supervising professor.
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View detailed program structure

As a graduate, you...

• have excellent career opportunities in the field of management, at a time when flexibility, creativity and innovation are key success factors
• you want to use your creative potential to make an impact in leadership positions,
• have a deep understanding and knowledge of business practices and areas that connect innovation management and ideation with essential digital know-how.

You are ready to work as

• Innovation Manager
• Product Manager
• Operations Manager
• Business Development Associate
• Digital Transformation Consultant
• Startup Founder

For an admission in this Master program, you need to fulfill the following admission criteria:

Academic requirements

• A Bachelor’s degree (e.g. Engineering, Humanities, Social Sciences, Business Administration/Economics or Computer Science) or similar from an accredited university, at least 180 ECTS or equivalent (depending on the home country)
• One year of work experience

Language requirements

• Proficiency in English, proven by either
  • TOEFL minimum 90
  • IELTS 6.5 or above
  • PTE Academic (Pearson) 60 or above
• Basic language skills in German, proven by official test score documents (e.g. Goethe, telc, ÖSD) - minimum level A1 according to the CEFR (The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).

By the beginning of the internship, all students have to prove that they are at a B1 German language level. The German language levels A2 and B1 can be reached during the studies in Hof.

For further information please check our application guide.

All applications must be done via our online application portal.

• The application period for winter intake is between April 15 and May 31.
• The application period for summer intake is between November 05 and November 30.
• An admission committee intensively scrutinizes all applications and decides about final admission. Admission letters will be issued in June for winter intake and December for summer semester intake.

If you have any questions concerning the application process, please contactadmission(at)hof-university.de.