Digitalization and Innovation M.B.A.

The program is designed for graduates seeking to transition from specialist roles into management responsibilities within digitally driven and innovation-oriented industries.

The program combines innovation management, digital transformation, and emerging technologies such as data analytics, artificial intelligence, IT security, and digital business models. It reflects the complexity of modern business environments where technology and management are increasingly interconnected.

To support this transition into leadership roles, the curriculum integrates strategic and financial thinking, project management, and leadership competencies. Teaching combines academic rigor with applied formats such as case studies, simulations, and interactive learning methods closely linked to real business challenges.

With the M.B.A. in Digitalization and Innovation, you gain:

• an interdisciplinary skill set at the intersection of digitalization, innovation, and management, enabling you to operate in complex, technology-driven business environments
• the ability to initiate, manage, and implement innovation projects in corporate or entrepreneurial contexts
• strong career perspectives in fields such as innovation management, strategic management, consulting, and entrepreneurship
• German language proficiency up to at least B1 level upon graduation, supporting professional integration into the German labour market 

In addition, the program offers you:

• a practice-oriented learning environment combining case studies, simulations, and applied teaching formats
• the development of intercultural competence through international collaboration and diverse study groups
• valuable industry experience through two semesters of integrated internships in industry

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, learning is practice-oriented, interactive, and closely connected to real business environments. Teaching is based on the application of academic knowledge in practical contexts and is supported by industry projects, site visits, and direct engagement with practitioners.

Case studies and real-world business examples are used to translate theory into applied understanding and to develop analytical and problem-solving skills relevant to management roles.

Our faculty members (all holding doctoral degrees) combine academic expertise with professional industry experience, ensuring a strong link between research-based knowledge and business practice.

The program also includes career-focused formats such as career talks, job fairs, seminars, and professional development sessions that support networking and career readiness.

The standard duration of the program is four semesters.

Semester 1–2: Academic + applied learning
The first two semesters focus on practice-oriented learning. Students engage with case studies, laboratory work, excursions, and expert sessions that connect theoretical knowledge with real-world application.

Semester 3–4: Industry experience + Master’s thesis 

The third and fourth semesters are dedicated to an integrated industry phase in a company. During this period, students complete a structured internship and apply their knowledge in a professional working environment while gaining substantial practical experience.

The Master’s thesis is written during the industry phase and is based on a current topic within the host company. The topic is defined in close coordination with a supervising professor.

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

Semester 1 and 2: Academic + applied learning

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

The basic modules build fundamental, interdisciplinary competencies, while the core modules provide in-depth knowledge in key areas of digital transformation, innovation, and modern management.

Basic modules (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 (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: Industry phase and Master’s thesis

The third and fourth semesters are dedicated to an integrated industry phase in a company. Students complete a structured internship (30 ECTS), a practice-oriented Master’s thesis (25 ECTS), and a Scientific Preparation Training (5 ECTS).

Entry into the internship phase requires proof of at least German language level B1.

Master’s thesis

The Master’s thesis applies the methodological and analytical competencies developed throughout the program.

It is written during the internship and addresses a current, practice-relevant topic within the host company. The topic is defined in coordination with the supervising professor.

View detailed program structure

Graduates of this MBA are prepared for management and innovation-oriented roles in digitally transforming industries and organizations.

The program combines business, innovation, and digital competencies with practical industry experience. This enables graduates to contribute to strategic transformation processes across a wide range of industries.

Graduates are particularly qualified for roles that require interdisciplinary thinking, innovation-driven decision-making, and the ability to connect technological developments with business strategy.

Typical career paths include roles such as:

• Innovation Manager
• Product Manager
• Operations Manager
• Business Development Manager
• Digital Transformation Consultant
• Innovation Entrepreneur

The interdisciplinary profile of the program also supports career opportunities in internationally operating companies and innovation-driven organizations.

For an admission in this MBA program, applicants must fulfill the following academic and language requirements.

Academic requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university (e.g. Engineering, Humanities, Social Sciences, Business Administration/Economics, or Computer Science), minimum of 180 ECTS credits or equivalent (depending on the higher education system of the applicant’s home country)
• At least one year of professional work experience 

English language requirements

English proficiency must be demonstrated through one of the following:

• TOEFL iBT: minimum score of 90
• IELTS Academic: minimum score of 6.5

• PTE Academic: minimum score of 60 

   

German language requirements

• Minimum German language level A1 at the time of application
• Accepted certificates include Goethe, telc, ÖSD, or equivalent 

By the beginning of the internship phase, students must demonstrate German language level B1. The required language levels A2 and B1 can be completed during the studies in Hof.

For detailed application information, please refer to the Application Guide.

Applications must be submitted through the online application portal

Application periods

• Winter intake: April 15 – May 31
• Summer intake: November 5 – November 30 

All applications are reviewed by the admissions committee. Admission decisions are issued in June for the winter intake and in December for the summer intake.

For questions regarding the application process, please contact:
admission(at)hof-university.de