Study Without Borders, Grow Worldwide

Internationality as a lived reality at the department of Business & Management

Thinking Globally, Acting Locally – Gaining In-Depth International Perspectives

At the Department of Business & Management, internationality is more than just part of the curriculum – it shapes the entire study experience. In an age where markets, societies, and challenges no longer recognize borders, we offer our students the space to think outside the box – while developing intercultural competence, global networks, and new approaches to thinking.

This is no coincidence, but a lived commitment: "Through internationality, we generate know-how, reputation, and added value for our clients," states the MCI mission – and we make this tangible for our students. Whether through mandatory stays abroad, high-level international events, or exciting excursions: for us, internationality is not an option – it is part of our identity.

International Studies: From Innsbruck to the World

For over two decades now, the International Studies program has been at the heart of our global orientation. What began in 2005 with just a few options has evolved into a diverse and customizable international module for both bachelor's and master's students.

Our students can choose from:

• A full semester at one of our many partner universities
• A customized two-week program in countries such as Canada, Brazil, South Africa, or China
• Compact one-week stays in Europe, combined with a program at MCI
• Double degree programs in France, Italy, or the Czech Republic (Master’s in International Business & Management), and in Finland or the UK (Bachelor’s in Business & Management)
• Independently organized semesters abroad as a freemover
• Or participation in our online module – now a high-quality alternative for those unable to travel

Once again, our bachelor’s and master’s students have embraced the diverse opportunities offered by International Studies. International experience is a fixed component of their academic journey.

This clearly demonstrates: internationality is not a one-off experience – it’s an integral part of our study model and actively embraced by our students.

Global Order in Transition – Experiencing International Politics Up Close

The event “Global Order in Transition” underscored how current and relevant international discourse is within our programs. Hosted in April 2025 at MCI by Professor Bernd Kirschner and program director Professor Michael Razen, the event brought together students from the part-time bachelor's in Business & Management and the master's in International Business & Management with internationally renowned experts.

Under the moderation of Professor Kirschner, the high-caliber panel discussion offered deep insights into global power shifts, economic interdependencies, and security policy risks. Notable names like Prof. Dr. Belachew Gebrewold, Dr. Jeremy Stöhs, Prof. Dr. Wei Manske-Wang, MMag. Diana Materi, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Evgenia Filippova-Karlusch delivered stimulating ideas and lively debates.

Also present was Prof. h.c. Dr. Franz Fischler, who delivered a keynote on Europe's role in a changing world. For our students, it was a valuable opportunity to experience international politics firsthand – and to engage critically and reflectively with decision-makers on equal footing.

Business & Management in Amsterdam – Learning with Perspective

This semester, our full-time students from the English-language BA in Business & Management dove deep into international business during a four-day excursion to Amsterdam, led by program director Professor Thomas Stöckl and Florian Blösl.

As part of the course “Selected Topics in Business Practice,” the itinerary included visits to companies like Red Bull Netherlands, Oracle, Heineken, Assent, De Nederlandsche Bank, and the European Space Agency (ESA). Topics such as sustainability, brand management, digitalization, and global trade strategies were not only discussed but brought to life through direct dialogue with industry experts.

In addition to business highlights, students also had time to enjoy cultural activities and discover the unique charm of the Dutch capital.

Internationality that Connects – A Lifelong Network

Whether part-time or full-time, in German or English – internationality runs through the entire academic offering of the Department of Business & Management. Our primary goal is not only to teach intercultural competence but to make it a lived experience – through direct contact with people, markets, and perspectives from around the world.

This fosters not just academic excellence, but also personal growth, global outlooks, and a network that extends far beyond graduation. Those who study with us become part of an international community – open-minded, diverse, and future-oriented.