FAQ
M.A. Global Management & Governance
1. What is the difference between a consecutive Master and an MBA?
The course contents of a consecutive Master are based on the specialist and methodological knowledge acquired in the first degree in Business Administration or Economics, which is then developed in more detail. An MBA is aimed at university graduates from other disciplines (engineers, lawyers, doctors, etc.) who have assumed managerial tasks in the course of their careers or plan to do so, for which they require the necessary business know-how. An MBA can also be interesting for professionals with a business background who would like practically oriented training after working for many years.
2. What degree can I acquire?
The course of study ends with the international Master of Arts (M.A.) degree.
3. Is the degree internationally recognised?
Yes. The HSBA awards the internationally recognised Master of Arts (M.A.) degree. The degree entitles the graduate to start studying for a doctorate, provided that she or he has acquired 300 credit points, including the Bachelor degree. 120 credits are given for the Master degree course in Global Management & Governance.
4. What are the advantages of studying for a Master degree at the HSBA while working full-time?
Until now it has been very difficult to take a consecutive Master programme in Business Administration while working full-time. This way of studying offers the unique opportunity of increasing one’s professional and academic qualifications while continuing to to develop one's career and to receive a salary.
5. How long is the duration of the study programme?
The Master programme lasts 30 months. The Master thesis is prepared in the last 6 months.
6. What is the language of tuition?
Tuition - and all examinations – are in English.The applicant must therefore prove her or his ability to follow a study programme in English (90 points on the standard TOEFL test).
7. What is the learning environment like at the HSBA?
Each year consists of a group of students not exceeding 24 participants. This means that tuition is on a seminar basis and ensures that learning and working are intensive. The bright and modern surroundings are on the Handelskammer City Campus, right in the centre of Hamburg.
8. Is the quality of the study programme at the HSBA comparable with that of a course at a university?
Yes. As an officially recognised university, the HSBA offers an academically oriented and internationally focused study programme with a high level of practical relevance.
9. When does the study programme start?
The course begins on October 1st every year.
10. When must I apply?
The deadline for applications is May 31st for beginning in October of the same year. However, applications for the following year are accepted after May 31st. Since the number of places is limited, it is advisable to apply early.
11. How should I apply?
By submitting to the HSBA a written application, certificates, letter of recommendation, TOEFL certificate and, if relevant, proof of work experience. If the necessary formal admission requirements are fulfilled, the applicant is invited to an interview.
12. What exactly is a letter of recommendation?
Together with the other application documents, the applicant must submit a letter of recommendation in which a suitable third party recommends the applicant for the study programme, with reference to personal and/or professional aptitude. Suitable referees are all persons who can assess the applicant personally or professionally (e.g. current or previous employer, a lecturer or professor from the first degree course, superior at an honorary activity, etc.).
13. How much are the tuition fees?
Tuition fees for the whole programme are €37,500. Fees are due for payment every semester (€7,500). In addition, there is a registration fee of € 1,500, which, however, is then deducted from the fee paid for the first semester.
The HSBA offers a range of funding opportunities (see 14.).
14. How can the study programme be financed?
The HSBA student support fund gives student grants annually in order to support particularly talented applicants who deserve the opportunity. It supports students by giving them reduction on their tution fees (maximum 50%).
Partial payment of tuition fees by the emplover can be agreed. In case a student receives a 25 % discount on the tuition fees from the HSBA, and the employer covers another 25 % of the tuition fees,a monthly fee of 625 Euro remains.
Scholarship program
15. How can I find a suitable employer?
First you should talk to your current employer about the possibility to pursue the part-time study programme with their support. We are happy to provide you with information material for this purpose.
16. What are the admission requirements?
The admission requirements are: a first university degree in Business Administration or Economics with the grade ‘good’ (2.5 or better) from German higher education institutions, or equivalent; proof of the applicant’s ability to study in English (90 points on the TOEFL test); a letter of recommendation for the course; and successful completion of the HSBA selection procedure. A study contract is also concluded with the HSBA. TOEFL information
17. Can I apply if the grade of my first university degree is worse than 2.5?
Yes, if the applicant has sufficient qualified professional experience. Each year of proven qualified professional experience can raise the existing grade by 0.2.
18. When does tuition take place at the HSBA?
Tuition (comprising 900 contact hours) takes place at extended weekends and during regular working weeks.
19. How much work is expected of students before and after the actual tuition?
Approximately one third of the students’ workload consists of contact teaching hours and about two thirds of preparatory and follow-up work and studying on one’s own. The course is scheduled in such a way that students can complete it by using part of their annual holiday. However, studying while working full-time places great demands on students with regard to motivation and organising themselves.
20. What examinations are there during the study programme?
For each module there is a module examination, which is held during the studies. The types of examination are laid down in the examination regulations in the curriculum and are explained in more detail in the module descriptions. Sub-examinations are usually held in the modules.
21. What is meant by 'mentoring'?
The ‘Versammlung eines Ehrbaren Kaufmanns zu Hamburg’ (VEEK) supports and accompanies students in the course Global Management & Governance on their way to becoming decision-makers in business. The development of the student’s personality is promoted through personal attention and advice given by members of VEEK.
For more detailed information, see here.
22. Whom should I ask if I have further questions?
If you have further questions about the study programme, please contact our Service Office via +49 (0)40 36138-711 or -712.
For personal advice, please contact Mr Alexander Freier: via +49 (040) 36 138 - 743 or Alexander.Freier@hsba.de.
