Bachelor's of International Business and Communication

Why study International Business and Communication?

The Bachelor's programme in International Business and Communication (IBC) offers a balanced mix of business fundamentals, internationally oriented content and practice-oriented modules. These contents are complemented by intercultural skills and a strong linguistic focus. This unique combination makes this programme particularly attractive. 
The following unique features distinguish it:

  • Focus on language and communication:
    Unlike many other business administration programmes – such as International Management – this programme places a much stronger emphasis on the acquisition and application of foreign languages. Students deepen their knowledge of two languages and develop skills for professional corporate communication at an international level.
  • Linking business and culture:
    The programme combines business knowledge with intercultural skills, which are promoted through modules such as regional studies and intercultural communication. This ensures that graduates are optimally prepared for the challenges of an increasingly globalised economy.
  • Innovative and diverse content:
    The course content is tailored to the current and future requirements of the international economy. With a special focus on digitalisation and international cooperation, the programme offers access to innovative fields of activity in offline and online contexts.

This programme is particularly aimed at students with an affinity for languages who wish to combine a sound business education with a strong linguistic and intercultural focus.

Structure and content of the programme

Foundation phase (semesters 1–3):
In the first three semesters, students acquire comprehensive knowledge of business administration, economics, accounting, business law and business informatics. In-depth modules such as human resources and organisation, marketing and controlling promote entrepreneurial thinking. The curriculum is supplemented by a focus on business English, intercultural communication and regional studies. In addition, students can choose between French and Spanish as a further foreign language, with a focus on business conversation and cultural aspects.

International focus (semester 4):
This semester is taught entirely in English, together with students from the International Management programme. The content covers international business topics such as international management, global marketing and cross-cultural management and communication. Students gain practical experience in a project with real-world business relevance in an international context.

Semester abroad (semester 5):
Students spend the fifth semester at one of the many partner universities worldwide. The modules are freely selectable, but must contain business administration content and be taken at a higher level at the host university. This enables students to develop their individual profiles, for example in the field of international economic relations. The credits earned are fully recognised, so there is no delay in the course of study.

Practical phase and bachelor's thesis (semester 6):
In the final semester, students complete a practical semester, which can optionally take place abroad. This allows them to deepen their language skills and gain valuable work experience in an international environment. With their final bachelor's thesis, students demonstrate that they are able to work independently and scientifically on an economics-related topic.

This programme combines theoretical foundations with international practical experience and provides optimal preparation for a career in a global environment.

 

Career prospects

Graduates of the International Business and Communication programme have a diverse skill set that can be applied in numerous professional fields. Here are some specific prospects and career opportunities:

1. Professional fields in international companies

  • Marketing and communication: Development and implementation of international marketing strategies; content creation in multiple languages; communication management.
  • Human resources (HR): Recruiting international talent, promoting intercultural cooperation and developing global employee strategies.
  • International sales and export management: Building and maintaining customer relationships in different countries, analysing international markets.
  • Project management: Managing and coordinating international projects with intercultural teams.

2. Work in public institutions and NGOs

  • Diplomacy and foreign policy: Support for bilateral relations, creation of communication strategies in an international context.
  • Development cooperation: Management of projects in emerging countries, promotion of intercultural understanding.
  • Cultural work: Organisation and promotion of cultural exchange programmes.