International Economics and Management
Master of Science (M.Sc.)
International Economics and Management
Master of Science (M.Sc.)
Overview
In a Nutshell
Internationalization is all around us: in our study content on global markets, multinational companies and international organizations, with our students and guest lecturers from all over the world and through our diverse opportunities to gain international experiences in Paderborn and at one of our more than 70 partner universities abroad.
Since summer semester 2024 international students, regardless of their nationality, have to submit their application via the Uni-Assist Online Portal. For an overview of the required documents, please click here. If you obtained a German University Entrance Degree ("Abitur", i.e. at a German secondary school abroad), the application must be carried out via the Registrar's Office.
Course of Study
What’s this Course about?
Are you interested in how companies and entire economies operate in global markets? Are you fascinated about other cultures and economic areas and can you imagine working in an internationally operating company, research institution or in an international organization? Our Master's program in International Economics and Management – IEM for short – offers you a wide range of opportunities for living internationalization.
Our compulsory modules are taught in English. With regard to the further module selection during your studies, you are free to decide whether you want to fill your study plan only with modules taught in English language or to also include modules taught in German language. But it is not only through the modules taught in English language that you can improve your language skills and gain international experience. In addition, numerous partner universities as well as various cooperations around the world offer you the opportunity to spend a semester abroad, take part in a double-degree program, summer schools or short-term programs. More than one third of our students, thus your fellow students, come from abroad. In a weekly forum, we encourage cross-cultural exchange through social events, excursions, and exciting lectures.
We provide you with the necessary theoretical and methodological knowledge to answer the question of how global markets actually work, what influence they have on organizations and how a company can position itself successfully in these markets. At the same time the study plan offers a high degree of flexibility to enable you to tailor the program to your individual interests by establishing a focus in the fields of economics and management. This opens the door to leading and strategically oriented management positions in internationally operating companies, organizations and research institutions.
Get in touch with us
If you have any questions regarding
- the admission requirements or the content of the study program, please contact the programme advisory service of the M. Sc. International Economics and Management. Mail: msc-iem@campus.uni-paderborn.de
- the application and enrollment, please contact the International Office. Mail: io-info@zv.upb.de
Why studying IEM in Paderborn?
Study Contents
What is the structure of the course?
Your course of study offers lots of flexibility. Only four compulsory modules (of 5 ECTS each) provide you with basic methodological competences including mathematical abilities as well as empirical and econometric methods.
Besides, there are various compulsory elective areas. These include the areas of “Economics” (10 ECTS), “Management” (10 ECTS), "Sustainability" (10 ECTS) and 30 ECTS in the area of “Study Tracks”. This allows students to specialize in one area in depth. Three study tracks are offered: “Data Science in Economics”, “Market Mechanisms” and “Sustainable Economics”. 10 ECTS are acquired in the “General elective module” from all areas of business administration and economicsat at Paderborn University. In addition, there is the compulsory elective area “Individual Study and Research” (10 ECTS), in which students can choose to take an internship or research module (10 ECTS). In all of these areas, you can choose your modules according to your interests and thus create your own profile.
Furthermore, the Master's thesis contributes to your individual profile-building and career goal. You can write your thesis in any field of business administration, management or economics in order to apply your acquired knowledge you have gained during your studies to a scientific problem.
Further information about the study options in M. Sc International Economics and Management
Exemplary Study Plan
The study plan offers you a good orientation about your required and optional modules. However, the chronological order shown here is only an example and may change due to individual focus areas.
Assumed start of studies: winter semester
Focus Areas
The Master’s program “International Economics and Management” covers a wide spectrum of subjects and opens up the possibility of a variety of internationally oriented career paths. In order to make possible profiling within the degree program even more visible to the outside world, there is the option of choosing an informal study track within the master’s program. In order to obtain a study track, it is necessary to complete modules totaling 30 ECTS from the list of available modules corresponding to the chosen specialization as well as to write a study track specific master thesis.
Students who choose the track Data Science in Economics acquire theoretical knowledge of modern statistical and econometric methods and gain hands-on skills and experience in processing, analyzing and visualizing structured or unstructured data. Special emphasis is placed on methods of causal analysis, prediction of economic and financial data, Big Data and Statistical Learning, and the acquisition and application of programming skills in R, Stata, or Python. Students also learn to understand the economic value of data and how to interpret and effectively communicate the results of their analyses.
Data Scientists are highly sought after by companies in all industries as well as public institutions, especially when they combine technical skills with a sound knowledge of statistical principles and economic reasoning. In addition to excellent earning and career opportunities in the private sector, graduates with a specialization in Data Science in Economics have all the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in an empirically oriented field of academia such as an empirical dissertation in economics.
The Market Mechanisms specialization provides in-depth knowledge of the design, analysis, and functioning of markets in an increasingly interconnected and dynamic global economy. Students explore how markets operate under various institutional frameworks and how information asymmetries, strategic behavior, and regulations shape market outcomes.
Particular emphasis is placed on modern microeconomic theory, game-theoretic approaches, and economic modeling, all of which contribute to the development of efficient and fair market mechanisms. Typical areas of application include health care markets, auction design, matching markets (such as labor or housing markets), platform economics, and digital marketplaces.
Graduates of this specialization acquire strong analytical tools to assess existing market structures and outcomes, and to develop new market mechanisms. These skills are highly valued in consulting firms, international organizations, regulatory agencies, and private-sector companies—especially in roles involving the strategic design or regulation of markets.
In an ever-evolving global economy, shaped by challenges such as advancing digital connectivity, increasing scarcity of natural resources, the impacts of climate change, the transition to renewable energies, and demographic shifts, economies face profound transformation processes. Given these dynamics, it is crucial to develop economic policy frameworks and strategies that, through a high degree of adaptability and resilience, ensure the long-term functionality of sustainable markets and institutions.
Students in the Sustainable Economics track learn to integrate sustainability challenges into a consistent economic analysis framework and evaluate alternative solutions. In particular, students explore how methods from behavioral economics can help refine the understanding of cause-and-effect relationships and develop evidence-based solutions.
The Sustainable Economics track opens up diverse career opportunities for students. Graduates apply their acquired skills both in research at universities and research institutions, as well as in economic policy consulting within companies, international organizations, or public institutions.
Rights and Obligations
The Examination Regulation contains everything you need to know about your rights and obligations!
The module catalogue shows you all offered modules sorted by semesters!
Possibilities
Study Abroad
It is important to us that you get to know different cultures and develop your language skills. Decide for yourself which opportunities you would like to take to gain international experience.
Each student has the opportunity to spend a semester abroad. You can choose the perfect place for your exchange semester from around 70 partner universities. Our special focus is the Asian area as well as French and Spanish speaking countries.
You can also gain international experience in Paderborn, even while being at home, so to speak. For example, you can take modules taught in English language. Most of the modules are led by guests from all over the world. You can also take part in a tandem language course or help with the integration of international students. Special highlights, however, are our short-term programs and summer schools. Here, you work in an international team on topics of business and economics for a few days. One example is the International Spring Program with Tohoku University from Japan which has taken place almost every year.
Together with our 9 partner universities in Asia we have established a particularly intensive connection to Asian countries. The core element of our Asian focus is the program in Asian Studies in Business and Economics (ASBE Program). Taking part in this program, you can gain profound knowledge of the Asian economic area, focus on Asian culture and spend half a year at one of our partner universities in China, Korea or Japan.
You study simultaneously at Paderborn University and at Tohoku University in Japan. The first and fourth semesters take place in Paderborn, whereas you complete semesters two and three in Japan. Thus, you can obtain a master’s degree in M. Sc. International Economics and Management (IEM) at Paderborn University as well as the Global Program in Economics and Management (GPEM) at Tohoku University, within the standard study period of four semesters. In preparation for the stay abroad, participation in an intensive Japanese language course is mandatory.
Learn more about the Double Master Program with Tohoku University.
The forum offers international and German students a platform for communication and exchange. Our members meet regularly for social activities, excursions and interesting discussions and thus get to know each other and different cultures.
Students Report
Nine months in Denmark: Anna-Lena's internship abroad - Part II
Anna-Lena's wish to be able to look back on an instructive and enjoyable time at the end of her internship was definitely fulfilled.
Cinnamon buns, snow and wanderlust in Finland
In eastern Finland, Jessica was inspired by the Northern Lights and fabulous amounts of snow.
Northern lights and hearty waffles in Norway
Svenja tells how the Trondheim Fjord exceeds her expectations.
Enchanted by Colombia's diversity
Johannes reports how he accompanies turtles into the sea and observes whales.
Corona Semester Abroad in South Korea
Between green landscapes and ultra-modern cities, Jason studies.
Internship in New York
Yuri talks about his KPMG internship in New York and his time as a freemover.
Internship
An internship is not compulsory. However, we recommend that our students organise an internship on their own initiative during the lecture-free period, in combination with a semester abroad or during a semester off. This gives you the opportunity to further deepen the contents you have learned in a real company. In addition, you have the opportunity to apply for an Erasmus scholarship for an internship abroad.
Professional Orientation
We complement your academic training with guest lectures from industry professionals, case studies, business simulations, and project work. We also support final theses and seminar papers written in cooperation with companies.
In addition, you can enhance your profile with optional qualifications such as Business English, IT training, SAP and ITIL courses. Furthermore, you have the opportunity to acquire additional qualifications and to become a part of various student initiatives, for example in the areas of marketing, project management or sustainability.
Future Perspectives
After graduation Master ?
Career Opportunities
The Master’s program International Economics and Management prepares you for management positions in international companies and institutions. This means that you will actively analyze and form the strategic positioning of an organization. Knowing how organizations are affected by an international environment and knowing mechanisms of the global market, you can make scientifically sound decisions. Your specific field of application area then depends on your individually chosen study track.
The acquired economic and strategic skills will enable you to develop solutions and strategies for theoretical and practical problems no matter whether in the field of management, research or strategy development. Additionally, by taking modules in English language and getting in touch with other cultures you develop the key competences required for a career at an international level.
- Manager in a multinational firm
- Management consultant, data analyst
- Position in an international organization
- Position in an NGO
- Position in a financial institution or central bank
- Research-oriented career
During the course of your studies, questions about career orientation arise from time to time. In events, practical projects and company visits as well as in the job and career portal, you can get to know possible professions and fields of activity and work out your personal interests and strengths.
Interested in the start-up scene? Then visit us at TecUP! We promote start-ups in Paderborn and will support you on your path to self-employment. We’ll be by your side throughout every stage of the start-up process – completely free of charge and with no obligation! garage33 is our dedicated space for creativity and exchange, networking and working. In addition to tailored coaching, we also offer workshops and events for you to learn the theory and practice of setting up a business in an innovative and creative environment, and to help you formulate, develop and validate your idea.
Want to start a business, but lack the seed capital to do so? We can help you apply for grants and put you in touch with our network of business angels and investors. Or merely looking to get an insight into start-ups, for some inspiration or to network with business founders? Then visit our courses or events, such as CALL FOR IDEAS, apply for a start-up job or simply visit us at garage33 – we look forward to meeting you!
Every year on three days in November, various companies from the region and from all over Germany present themselves at the company contact fair LOOK IN! Find out about numerous companies in company presentations in the foyer of the University of Paderborn or talk to HR staff directly and without obligation. During the fair, you will have the opportunity to take part in a variety of workshops or speed dating sessions with various companies. Through direct contact with the companies, interested parties can secure final theses, internships and working student jobs.
The largest company contact fair in the Ostwestfalen-Lippe region is organised by students for students. So if you want to experience event management first-hand, you can register with LOOK IN! GbR, in which the university groups Wirtschaftsingenieurwesen e.V. and Wirtschaftsinformatik Paderborn e.V. are involved.
PhD
Explicitly research-oriented modules are aimed at students who plan to continue their doctoral studies after their Master’s degree. As one of a few faculties in Germany, we offer you an opportunity to study within a structured doctoral program.
Our research thrives on networking and exchange. Various seminar series and workshops enable our young researchers to get to know the research work of guest researchers from all over the world and to present their own work and ideas and develop them further in discussion.
Every two years, the junior researchers leave the familiar university environment for the Faculty Research 365体育_足球比分网￥投注直播官网, so that space is created for new ideas and lectures, discussions and poster sessions can be supplemented with connecting activities.
The peer mentoring program "Insight!" offers future female graduates the opportunity to exchange ideas about the prospect of a doctorate and to prepare for this. The exchange is accompanied by a PhD graduate who provides tips and strategies for decision-making based on her own experiences. The goal of the program is to offer participants insights into scientific work and to expand their personal and professional skills and development opportunities through the exchange with mentors.
The Faculty of Business Administration and Economics provides students pursuing postgraduate qualifications with support. The team at the Postgraduate Centre will be more than happy to provide you with information and advice.
Life journeys of our students and alumni
Art from Tanzania in Paderborn
Felix, Thorben and Lindsey want to offer street artists from the global south a stage in Europe with their start-up.
As Key Account Manager, look after major customers and further develop marketing strategies
India's studies and working life are accompanied by mathematics.
Dream job: Human Resources Officer at Deutsche Bahn
Through an internship, Jan gets his dream job right after graduation.
From the lecture theatre to the Head of PM
Cafer already worked as Head of PM in a Shopware agency during his studies.
Working abroad: Business knowledge and foreign languages
Anna Sophie applies her Spanish skills in Colombia.
From student council chairman to CEO
Kevin gained leadership experience for the family business in student representation.
Adventure Bundestag
Norina was already involved in numerous initiatives during her studies and now as a staff member in the Bundestag.
From the idea to the start-up-to-be
Lia and Franziska are studying - and preparing to start their own business on the side.
Dream job: Human Resources Manager at WDR
Laura found her career aspiration during her studies and realised it immediately.
More than just a title
The doctorate provides Jennifer with different perspectives and an opportunity to develop herself further.
Get to Know
The right fit?
Are you interested in the major challenges humanity faces and their impact on different organizations? For example, the development and growth of nations, international competition and global supply chains or the comparison of economic, health and educational systems? In order to understand and study such complex topics, you will encounter numerous theories and formal models during your studies. Especially the economic modules in particular are research-oriented. This means it is about testing hypotheses using different research methods such as game theory, experiments or econometrics. You can individually select from a wide range of study specializations. Depending on your study profile, you should have a good analytical and mathematical understanding.
In addition, everything revolves around internationalization. For this reason, you should not be afraid of using English and be interested in getting to know other cultures.
The M. Sc. International Economics and Management is a good fit for you if...
- You are looking for an internationally oriented master’s program in economics offering courses in English language and opportunities to study abroad.
- You would like to develop your individual profile with a freely chosen study track.
- You are interested in fields like internationalization, economics, management or quantitative research methods.
- You possess analytical and mathematical knowledge and would like to develop your analytical ability and econometric skills.
- You are interested in international economic contexts, other cultures and global economic areas.
- You would like to work in an internationally operating company or an international organization.
Study Start and Orientation
Even if it is not your first semester at the University, we would like to make your start as a Master student as easy as possible.
During the first weeks of the lecture period, the Faculty of Business Administration and Economics will welcome you and inform you how studying with us works. Additionally, the individual study program coordinators and student representatives will offer you a welcome program and show you around the campus, organize social events and help you to create your personal study plan. The first week is the best opportunity to get to know the university, the study process and your peers.
In our online course we will explain to you how the study process looks like. With the help of learning videos, you will learn how to plan your semester, where you can find information on your study plan and the modules and also what examination regulations you need to know.
Related Studies
Not quite right for you? One of our other study programs might be a better fit!
Campus life
In addition to study-related content, Paderborn University offers you a lot more: for those eager to learn, for those seeking exchange and for all those who want to think outside the box. Learn and improve your language skills at the Center for Language Studies and brush up on your software skills with the courses offered by doIT. The servicecenter-medien offers special media workstations where you can let off steam creatively, and the university sports program ranges from American football to Zumba. Get involved with the university radio station L'UniCo or the university newspaper universal and become part of one of the many project groups or initiatives.
Culture
A regular theater program at our Studionbühne, slams and readings, Big Band and university choir are just a few examples of our diverse cultural offerings. A special highlight is our AStA summer festival: up to 15,000 people make the pilgrimage every year to what is probably Germany's largest outdoor campus festival and enjoy the summer party atmosphere with numerous local student bands as well as well-known headliners on various stages.
Campus
Almost all of Uni Paderborn's buildings are located on campus. There are green meadows to relax in and plenty of places to eat and drink: Mensa Academica and Mensa Forum, the Grill|Café and Café Bona Vista. Everything is within easy walking distance. Our library is also centrally located and is a great place to study thanks to its good opening hours.
Accommodation
Living in accomodations close to campus is possible: The Studierendenwerk Paderborn offers you places in halls of residence directly on campus or in the immediate vicinity. But you will also find what you are looking for on the usual accommodation portals: Both in the immediate vicinity of the university and city center, as well as in the individual Paderborn districts.
Costs and financing
Everyday student life offers you plenty of opportunities to work alongside your studies. However, BAf?G or a scholarship are also options that you can use to cover your costs.
Advisory services
We have the right contact point for every concern. For example, our advisory and service facilities are available to answer your questions about academic work, career orientation and goal setting, funding opportunities and many other concerns.
Our university is an open-minded university that also takes a clear stance on gender and diversity. We have been actively promoting equal opportunities and a gender- and family-friendly work and study culture for many years. This includes support for a better balance between studying and family life as well as support for students with health impairments.
Any questions?
Chat with us
The right contact for every concern
The Central Student Advisory Service (ZSB)
E-Mail: zsb@upb.de
Phone:05251/60-2007
You are in the right place with the following concerns
We support prospective students in their choice of studies and in their decision to study. In addition, we advise students in all phases of their studies, especially in phases of reorientation.
Academic Advisors M. Sc. International Economics and Management
E-Mail: msc-iem@campus.uni-paderborn.de
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- Does the degree programme suit me and my professional expectations?
- Which modules are offered and what do I deal with in the modules?
- How is the study programme organised?
- How are the modules, events and examinations organised?
- What focal points can I set in my studies?
- How can I organise my course of study individually?
- Do I meet the admission requirements?
- How can I apply?
Studienbüro Wirtschaftswissenschaften
E-Mail: studium@wiwi.upb.de
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- Which degree programme in the field of economics suits me?
- Which modules are offered in the programme?
- How can I plan my course of study appropriately?
- How is the programme organised?
- What is the orientation phase like?
- What additional courses are offered in the field of study of economics?
- Do I meet the admission requirements?
- How are the examination regulations to be understood?
Programme Coordination M. Sc. International Economics and Management
E-Mail: msc-iem@upb.de
You are in the right place with the following concerns
-
Problems with the degree programme (insufficient range of modules, ambiguities in the examination regulations, etc.)
-
Suggestions for improvement of the study programme
The person responsible for the programme is Prof. Dr. Daniel Baumgarten.
Academic Advisors M. Sc. International Economics and Management
E-Mail: msc-iem@campus.uni-paderborn.de
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- Does the degree programme suit me and my professional expectations?
- Which modules are offered and what do I deal with in the modules?
- How is the study programme organised?
- How are the modules, events and examinations organised?
- What focal points can I set in my studies?
- How can I organise my course of study individually?
- Do I meet the admission requirements?
- How can I apply?
Studienbüro of the Faculty of Business Administration and Economics (Credit Point Recognition)
E-Mail: studium@wiwi.upb.de
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- Who is the right person to contact if I would like to have achievements from abroad, from another university or from another degree programme at the University of Paderborn recognised?
- Is my degree equivalent to that of the University of Paderborn?
- How can I check in advance whether I fulfil all admission requirements?
- What options do I have if I do not meet the admission requirements?
International Office
E-Mail: io-info@zv.uni-paderborn.de
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- How do I apply as an international student? Which prerequisites do I have to bring?
- What opportunities do I have to go abroad during my studies?
- Where can I get information about studying abroad (application deadlines and procedures, internships, scholarships)?
Internationalisation Office of the Faculty of Business Administration and Economics
E-Mail: international@campus.upb.de
Phone:05251/60-1696
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- What opportunities are there for internationalisation in the field of business studies?
- How can achievements from abroad be integrated into my study plan?
- How do I receive credit for my studies abroad?
- Where can I find more information about international programmes?
Student Council for Economics and Business Studies
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- What is the study programme about?
- What does the daily study routine look like? What does a weekly schedule look like?
- How do students like their studies?
- What social activities and opportunities are there besides studying?
- What do students recommend?
Registrar’s Office
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- Information and advice on application, admission and enrolment matters
- Processing of applications for change of degree programme, change of subject, leave of absence, exmatriculation, secondary enrolment
- Registration for the qualifying examination
- Health insurance matters
- Re-registration matters
Academic Advisors M. Sc. International Economics and Management
E-Mail: msc-iem@campus.uni-paderborn.de
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- Does the degree programme suit me and my professional expectations?
- Which modules are offered and what do I deal with in the modules?
- How is the study programme organised?
- How are the modules, events and examinations organised?
- What focal points can I set in my studies?
- How can I organise my course of study individually?
- Do I meet the admission requirements?
- How can I apply?
Uni-Assist
You are in the right place with the following concerns
Please apply for this program, regardless of your nationality, via the Uni-Assist Online Portal, if you don't have a German University Entrance Qualification.
Bildungsinl?nder*innen
You are in the right place with the following concerns
If you don't have the German citizenship, but have received your university entrance qualification from a German school inside or outside of Germany (= Bildungsinl?nder*innen), apply for the program directly at the online portal PAUL of the admissions office. (Please initially supply a grade of 4,0; follow further instructions by email after registration in the online system.)
Examination Office
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- Counselling on examination-related questions of the study programme
- Processing of admissions and registrations for examinations with limited repeatability
- Processing withdrawals from examinations due to illness
- Recording examination results
- Administration of study performance accounts, certificates of grades and module assignments
- Transfers to the current version of the examination regulations
- Issuing certificates, diplomas, diploma supplements and transcripts of records
- Issuing duplicates and certificates to internal and external university administrative offices
- Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)
Examination Board of the Faculty of Business Administration and Economics
E-Mail: pruefungsausschuss@wiwi.upb.de
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- Formal recognition of examination achievements
- Rebooking of examinations (additional modules)
- Subsequent registration for examinations or admission to modules
- Application for placement in a higher semester
- Objection to examinations
Service Centre for Studying with Disabilities
E-Mail: s-m-b@upb.de
Phone:05251/60-5498
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- Advice on all questions related to studying
- Procurement and rental of aids
- Barrier-free campus tours
- Provision of information on the barrier-free campus
- Advice on compensating for disadvantages
FamilienServiceBüro
You are in the right place with the following concerns
We support you in balancing your studies and family life.