International Business & Law | Master


Apply now

 Application Deadline: March 31, 2024

FIBAA Logo AACSB Logo
Short Facts
  • Time model: Full-time ("job-friendly") | English
  • Duration of study: 4 semesters | 120 ECTS
  • Optional double degree from partner universities in Great Britain, Italy, France & Taiwan as well as from the MCI Executive Education
  • Prerequisites: Bachelor or equivalent degree in business or legal studies or studies comprising a prescribed level of relevant ECTS credits
  • Academic Degree: Master of Arts in Business | MA or M.A.
  • Tuition fee: EUR 363,36 / semester plus membership fee for the Austrian Students’ Union (ÖH) for EU and EEA citizens

Before studying

Do you consider business know-how and legal expertise as essential components of a successful career? Do you see digital transformation, diversity and sustainability as key components of a new way of doing business? Do you aspire to an international career with responsibility and want to address the needs of a new generation specifically? Then apply now for the new English master degree program International Business & Law and take advantage of the opportunity to enhance your international employability.

Overview

Lecturer and student checking some documents

Case studies, integrative project assignments, and cross-disciplinary projects form an integral part of the program and provide students with excellent career prospects on the international labor market.

UNIQUE COMBINATION

Learn to use legal opportunities when pursuing a career in international business. The unique combination of international business administration and European business law are at the forefront of this English-language master degree program. Special focus is given to innovative concepts of management, digitalization, sustainability and diversity. In this way, we prepare you for the ever-increasing number of professional fields, which require not only economic, but also legal competencies.

HIGH QUALITY SPECIALIZATIONS

The first year of study provides a solid foundation in the key areas of international management, European business law and digital transformation. The two specializations "HR, Leadership & Diversity" and "Strategic Management & Sustainability" are at the fore of the second year of study. Students additionally have the opportunity to replace one of the two specializations with an individually chosen focal area from another degree program. This allows the IB&L master degree program to be tailored to individual career goals and current job offers in the best possible way.

INTERNATIONALITY

Stays abroad represent an additional opportunity for all students to experience diversity, expand networks, and enrich their CVs. The Study Tour in the third semester enables all students to establish valuable contacts with internationally and/or globally operating companies, regardless of the option of a semester abroad at one of our numerous partner universities. Those students who successfully apply for a double-degree also have the unique opportunity to earn an additional international degree in the UK, Italy, France or Taiwan.

 

Contact
Prof. Dr. Ralf Geymayer | Head of Department & Studies Bachelor's program Management & Law
Prof. Dr. Ralf Geymayer Head of Department & Studies

If you have any questions about the study program, please contact us.

Consultancy situation between MCI staff and future student

Admission

Applications for admission are accepted on a rolling basis. The required documents are to be submitted online. Applicants are welcome to apply for multiple programs of study, as long as a plausible rationale is given. The final decision may be taken by the end of the application procedures.

 

Application
deadline

Interview
Date 1 Nov 12, 2023 Dec 5, 2023
Date 2 Feb 4, 2024 Feb 27, 2024
Date 3 Mar 31, 2024 Apr 23, 2024
Date 4 May 26, 2024 Jun 18, 2024

The program accepts:

Graduates of relevant Bachelor programs. For example: Management & Law, Business Law, Law & Economics, Economics, Business Administration, International Business Administration.
Graduates of other Bachelor or post-secondary programs comprising business and /or legal-related courses (e.g. Marketing, Controlling, Accounting, Project Management, Business Law, etc.) totaling at least 45 ECTS credits.

Recognition of previous qualifications in the master program:
Applications for recognition of examinations or credits obtained through other study programs or previous scientific experience must be submitted to the Head of Department & Studies. A decision will only be taken in cases where the application for admission has been approved and accepted. Recognition of credits or previous experience is only granted for individual classes in the program.

In just two steps to your desired study program at MCI:

Step 1 – Online application: CV & motivation

A complete online application consists of a CV, a letter of motivation, information on educational background, qualifications, professional career, social achievements and academic as well as professional goals. We would like to know why you are applying to study at MCI.

You may apply for more than one degree program at the same time, provided you can conclusively explain your respective motivations in your letter of motivation.

Step 2 – Online admission interview

In the second step, all applicants will be invited to an online admission interview.

In this interview, we want to get to know you. We are particularly interested in your motivation to study at MCI as well as your professional and personal goals you want to achieve with the help of your studies.

Within three weeks after the admission interview, we will inform you about the admission decision.

Student selecting a book from a shelf in the library

While studying

MCI study programs stand out due to the quality of their content, relevance to the business world, and their international orientation. The close cooperation with partners from industry and integrative internships enable students to gain practical experience as early as in their Bachelor’s studies. In addition to providing expert knowledge, MCI places great importance on encouraging personal development and the development of social and intercultural competencies.

International Business & Law

The full-time study program is organized in such a way as to make it possible for students to pursue a professional career parallel to their studies and to have the freedom to take care of family responsibilities. The third semester may be completed anywhere in the world at one of MCI’s many partner institutions. This international experience not only broadens the students’ horizons, but also provides them a glimpse of international markets and the opportunity to establish valuable contacts. Moreover, it helps them to hone their cultural, social, as well as linguistic skills. This international focus runs like a thread through the program, which is expressed not least by the numerous lecturers from the international business and university landscape.

Facts

Time model
Full-time study program with job & family friendly time model
Courses on campus from Friday to Saturday (in exceptional cases on Thursday)
+ one online session during the week in the evening hours (in exceptional cases times may change)

Language
English
Academic year
September – February
February – Mid July
Structure
First year: Core studies
Second year: Specializations, Study Tour, international study options and master thesis
Tuition fees
For students from EU & EEA countries: EUR 363,36 / semester plus membership fee to the Austrian Student Union (ÖH). Details & information for students from third countries can be found at admission.

Module Overview

Module Overview

YEAR ONE

The first year of study provides students with a comprehensive foundation in understanding the economic activities and behavior of humans in organizations (HU*MAN). Based on relevant scientific findings, practice-relevant content is discussed on the topics of digitalization (MACHINES), access to and the functioning of markets (MARKETS), scientific research methods (METHOD), strategic management and international corporate governance (MANAGEMENT), international finance and accounting (MONEY), as well as essential legal issues (MAXIMS & MOTIONS).

 

Humans and their behavior are at the center of interest in the social sciences. In this program, the focus of interest is also on people - the development of their competencies, the understanding of their behavior in organizations and their entrepreneurial, and other, economic activities.

 1234
Competencies & Cooperation  3 | 4      
Entrepreneurial & Economic Activity   3 | 4     


Semester Credit Units| ECTS-Credits

To successfully meet the challenges of today's economy, we need to understand the digital transformation of traditional business models. Here, we look at how the legal requirements that arise in an increasingly digital economy can be successfully managed.

 1234
Digital Transformation 3 | 4      
Digital Business Law    3 | 4    

 


Semester Credit Units| ECTS-Credits

From an economic standpoint, we look at global markets and also discuss access to them from a marketing perspective. In particular, we analyze recent developments such as the increasing role of AI and e-commerce, which are increasingly influencing or even replacing classic market transactions.

 1234
Global Economics & Markets  3 | 4      
Digital Marketing    3 | 4     


Semester Credit Units| ECTS-Credits

A scientific study requires precision in the use of research methods. This is supported by means of offering courses on the subject throughout your studies. This provides you the opportunity to continuously expand your competencies in this field and to complete your studies with a methodologically profound master thesis.

 1234
Academic Writing
 3 | 4      
Research Methodology    3 | 4    
Theories, Research & Practice      3 | 4  
Master Thesis       | 22 

 


Semester Credit Units| ECTS-Credits

Achieving economic goals usually requires coordination and control, which we commonly refer to as management activities. During your studies, you will learn about international and strategic management, as well as tools for planning, coordinating and controlling economic activities.

 1234
International Management & Strategies 3 | 4      
Management & Strategy Simulation   3 | 4    


Semester Credit Units| ECTS-Credits

In order to finance economic activities and to be able to account for the use of our financial resources, the topics of accounting, financing and tax law are approached from an international perspective.

 1234
International Finance  3 | 4      
International Accounting    3 | 4     

 


Semester Credit Units| ECTS-Credits

Maxims & Motions refer to established legal principles and their enforcement. You will gain extensive legal knowledge and skills that will help you to better navigate your business through a sea of legal challenges.

 1234
Single European Market Law 3 | 4      
Private Law & Enforcement 3 | 4      
Company & Competition Law   3 | 4    
Intellectual Property & Product Liability   3 | 4    


Semester Credit Units| ECTS-Credits

YEAR TWO

In the second year of study, the focus is on the two specializations “Human Resources, Leadership & Diversity” and“Strategic Management & Sustainability”. Students additionally have the opportunity to substitute one of the two specializations with other subject areas at MCI (subject to availability). Such examples are "Digital Business", "Marketing Management" and "Financial Management".

This allows the International Business & Law Master program to be tailored to individual career goals and current job offers in the best possible way.

An optional semester abroad (in the 3rd semester) and the study tour with insights into the practices of large international companies make it possible to gain international experience and networks before completing the master's thesis.

The core contents of this specialization are International Human Resource Management, European Labor Markets, Law & Anti-Discrimination, as well as Ethics and Diversity in an increasingly digital business environment. In the final semester, we make the connection to your future career with content on international leadership and the behavior of people in modern organizations.

 1234
Ethics & Diversity     3 | 4   
International Human Resource Management     3 | 4  
European Labour Law & Non-Discrimination     1,5 | 2   
New Leadership & Organizational Behaviour        3 | 4


Semester Credit Units| ECTS-Credits

In this specialization, we examine the link between strategic management and sustainability, learn to better understand economic sustainability, and discuss various forms of corporate cooperation or combination, while focusing on mergers & acquisitions and their legal requirements. In the final semester, we additionally delve into the topic of compliance and governance.

 1234
Advanced Strategic Management & Sustainability     3 | 4   
Sustainability & Society     3 | 4  
Organizational Transformation     1,5 | 2   
Compliance & Governance        3 | 4


Semester Credit Units| ECTS-Credits

The module "General Management Experience", which is offered to all students, provides  you the opportunity for a practical exchange and experience on an international level. A study tour abroad, which takes place at the end of the 3rd semester, provides the opportunity to establish a network first hand with leading international employers such as Google, Salesforce or Microsoft.

 1234
General Management Experience     4,5 | 6   


Semester Credit Units| ECTS-Credits

Lectures are usually held from Friday to Saturday afternoon (in exceptional cases lectures take place on Thursday). In addition, one online session is scheduled during the week in the evenings (in exceptional cases times may change).

Students have the chance to gain an additional academic degree at one of the following partner universities:

  • Edinburgh Napier University (GB; Master of Science, M.Sc.)
  • Kingston University London (GB; Master of Laws, LL.M.)
  • Università Carlo Cattaneo - LIUC (IT; Laurea Magistrale, Dott. mag.)
  • NEOMA Business School (FR; Master in Management, MiM)
  • National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology (TW; International Master of Business Administration, MBA)

In addition, the Master's programme International Business & Law offers another double degree in cooperation with MCI Executive Education.

Graduates of the program are conferred the academic title of Master of Arts in Business, in short MA or M.A. This is attested by a leaving certificate, the Master diploma, the international diploma supplement, and further documents where relevant. MCI Alumni are entitled to combine their academic degree with the brand “MCI” to provide trust and orientation in an increasingly intransparent international education market. Example: BSc (MCI).
Source: GZ BMWF-52.330/0195-I/6/2013

Cooperation & Career Partners (Selection)

 

  • Dell
  • European Academy of Management
  • LinkedIn
  • Luis Trenker ( Luis T. GmbH/ s. r. l.)
  • Mondelez
  • Oracle
  • Porsche Holding Gesellschaft m. b. H.
  • Vmware

Learning Goals

In order to ensure the transfer of learning and to enable students to develop relevant competencies, MCI has defined clear cross-curricular learning goals. These describe, in detail, the knowledge and skills acquired by our graduates on completion of their studies at MCI.

Three stylized persons in white on a blue circle, arrows between the persons symbolize efficient communication in the professional field

Responsible Leadership

Inspired by the UN Sustainable Development Goals, our graduates demonstrate a commitment to ecologically sustainable, economically responsible, and socially equitable decision-making.

Three white gears on a blue circle symbolize the ability to apply theories and scientific methods to practical problems

Academic Rigor

Our graduates can apply relevant theories and appropriate scientific methods in their field of work.

Anne Hacker; Revenue Managerin, The HEINEKEN Company; Alumni International Business & Law

To study at the MCI was one of my best decisions – not only because of the most stunning views of the surrounding mountains but also because of the lifelong friendships, good organization and the great network of lecturers. For my current position, I still profit from the “beyond your own nose” approach I was taught at the MCI along with the multicultural experience I gained there.

Anne Hacker; Revenue Managerin, The HEINEKEN Company; Alumni International Business & Law

Carolin Proft; Key Account Managerin, Swarm Analytics GmbH; Alumni International Business & Law

From Innsbruck, via Brussels, to Berlin: Equipped with a toolbox of strong problem-solving competences, excellent communication and critical thinking skills and an international legal and economic background, the MCI prepared me in a perfect way me for my career representing businesses on the political stage. Studying at the top – with the top – leaves me today with a sustainable business network, deep friendships, and memories of the best view of the mountains you can ever have.

Carolin Proft; Key Account Managerin, Swarm Analytics GmbH; Alumni International Business & Law

Dominick Huber; Tax & Legal Associate, Airbnb Dublin; Alumni International Business & Law

The time I spent at the MCI was a truly transformative experience, which gave me an excellent foundation to build upon when entering the workforce. I enjoyed how the program balanced theory and practice and that my classmates came from all over the world, which led to very interesting discussions. As a bonus, the views of the snow-capped Alps from the MCI classrooms are spectacular.

Dominick Huber; Tax & Legal Associate, Airbnb Dublin; Alumni International Business & Law

Amina Abl; Specialist Learning & Transformation, thyssenkrupp Presta AG; Alumni International Business & Law

Studying at the MCI not only challenges you; it changes you. Looking back at my time studying, it was an incredibly enriching and exciting journey, which I shared with great colleagues from all over the world and with inspiring lecturers coming from a variety of industries and in a university mindset that is incomparable with any other. The MCI not only opens some doors for your career pathway, but rather many, and it equips you with every tool needed for all the great opportunities that await you beyond your studies.

Amina Abl; Specialist Learning & Transformation, thyssenkrupp Presta AG; Alumni International Business & Law

Maximilian Seemüller; Consultant M&A, Deloitte Consulting GmbH; Alumni International Business & Law

Motivated students and teachers providing profound business insights was the best combination to develop a successful mind-set. Adding small and interactive classes, paired with a semester abroad in the US, I can say that the MCI prepared me in the best possible way for my current career.

Maximilian Seemüller; Consultant M&A, Deloitte Consulting GmbH; Alumni International Business & Law

Univ.- Prof. Dr. Florian Bauer; Professor in Strategy, Entrepreneurship & Innovation at Lancaster University Management School; External Lecturer International Business & Law

In my position as a professor at Lancaster University Management School and external lecturer at MCI, I am particularly interested in the close interaction of research, practice and teaching. This is crucial to enable students to abstract, understand and ultimately solve practical problems.

Univ.- Prof. Dr. Florian Bauer; Professor in Strategy, Entrepreneurship & Innovation at Lancaster University Management School; External Lecturer International Business & Law

Mag. Elgar Schnegg MBA; Managing Director Austria at Teva ratiopharm; External Lecturer International Business & Law

Being a managing director for our Austrian organization of a multinational company, I am looking at our marketing and branding strategy in strong alignment with the overall company strategy, addressing various stakeholder expectations as well as embedding this strategy into the international strategy of our worldwide organization. This is the mindset and the excitement I am trying to convey to my students thus giving them a valuable tool set for any future career in marketing and branding with intercultural aspects.

Mag. Elgar Schnegg MBA; Managing Director Austria at Teva ratiopharm; External Lecturer International Business & Law

Research & Development

At the Entrepreneurial School®, providing a consistent link between science and practice has top priority. Therefore, we provide our students plenty of opportunity to put their newly acquired knowledge to practice, even during their studies. The collaboration with companies and organizations of different sizes and sectors forms one of the cornerstones of the MCI concept. Such cooperative work does not only benefit our students, but also, ­to a large extent our partners.

Active involvement in R & D projects forms an integral part of the study program. This enables students – while still at university – to develop solutions for the future while building up contacts with companies from a variety of sectors.

Focus of research:

  • Strategy, Mergers & Acquisitions
  • European Union (Business) Law & Ethics
  • Digital Law & Ethics
  • Effects of Asymmetric Information
SMA Research Lab

The main idea of SMA Research Lab is to gain a deeper understanding of the Strategy, Mergers & Acquisition phenomenon. Thus, SMA Research Lab tries to deliver a high-class contribution to the scientific community with publications, conferences and speeches. In these research activities “top students” from MCI Management Center Innsbruck, Innsbruck University and other partner institutions, are challenged and developed.

 

EU VALUES & DIGITALIZATION

Named after the founding father of the EU, in 2019 the European Commission established a Jean Monnet Chair on EU values and digitalization at MCI (this Chair succeeds the Chair on Ethics established in 2016). In teaching and research, this chair deals with current issues at the interface of EU law, EU values and ethics. In addition, it undertakes numerous activities such as lectures at international conferences and schools. Information on the comprehensive activities can be found at  https://jeanmonnet.mci.edu 

 

After studying

Studying at MCI is an investment in a successful future. Through close cooperation with industry and the practical orientation of all courses, MCI graduates are in particularly high demand on the job market and have several job offers even before graduation

Professional Opportunities

  • Tax Advisory and Auditing, Business Consultancy
  • Banking & Finance
  • Marketing & Account Management
  • Strategy & Leadership
  • Human Resources
  • Business Law
  • Research & Higher Education
  • Supply Chain & Process Management
  • Public Administration & Interest Groups

MCI Alumni & Friends

MCI Alumni & Friends provides a dynamic service platform promoting contacts, image, professional careers, and personal development of MCI and its graduates. We are delighted with all the graduates who choose to stay in touch even long after completion of their studies, and allowing us to be a part of their various careers:

Success Stories

This could also be interesting for you

A number of applicants interested in this degree program have also expressed interest in the following master's program.

It is possible to apply for more than one degree program at the same time if you present your motives in a meaningful explanation.

Questions and Answers

Yes, it is possible and it is even recommended that you apply before obtaining your Bachelor’s Degree certificate in order to secure one of the limited places in your desired course of study. Please include the most recent transcript of records in your application. Should your application be successful, the Bachelor’s certificate is to be submitted by the start of your studies.

Multiple applications are welcome as long as a plausible reason is provided in your cover letter. If you are admitted to two or more study programs, you are required to inform us of your final decision by the conclusion of the application procedures.

Students of this study program have the choice within their curriculum, but also as part of their extracurricular activities, to choose between modules, specializations, additional courses, electives, etc. Additionally, the semester abroad at one of our numerous partner universities as well as projects and final papers, enable our students to make their study program a truly unique experience.    

 

The admission interview is held online and can therefore also be completed from abroad.

For citizens of the following countries, the tuition fee is 363 euros per semester plus a fee for compulsory membership to the Austrian National Union of Students:

  • EU citizens,
  • EEA and Swiss citizens, and
  • non-EU citizens who, according to § 2 of the University of Applied Sciences Studies Act, are subject to § 1 of the Regulation on Eligible Groups of Persons (see Federal Law Gazette II No. 340/2013, in its current version).

For students of non-EU countries not considered eligible according to above regulations, the tuition fee is as follows:

  • Bachelor’s courses: 6,250 euros / semester plus compulsory Austrian National Union of Students membership fee
  • Master’s courses: 6,250 euros / semester plus compulsory Austrian National Union of Students membership fee

Your application documents regarding nationality will be assessed in detail as part of your admission procedure. Scholarships are available for applicants from non-EU countries and can be applied for as part of your online application.

Attendance is mandatory in all classes. If you miss 25% of a course or more, this will have an effect on your final grade.

Exemption from mandatory attendance may be granted if a valid reason is given (e.g. sickness, visit to authorities or other personal reasons). Please submit your written request including relevant proof to the department for approval.

The part-time (or job-friendly) model of organization, to a certain degree, enables students to work and gain practical experience while they study.

Seminars and lectures take place on Friday and Saturday from 09:00 am to 04:45 pm (in exceptional cases lectures take place on Thursday). Additionally, one extra online session per week is held in the evening (usually on Tuesdays). This teaching schedule allows students to continue with their professional activities during their studies or gain practical experience in the field.