DID YOU KNOW?
In the CHE University Ranking 2024/25, Munich Business School received outstanding ratings. All of the degree programs examined impressed with their practical teaching, pronounced internationality, close supervision by teaching staff and excellent career opportunities.
A course of study in the field of controlling opens up numerous career opportunities and offers a valuable combination of analytical, strategic and business management skills. Here are six good reasons why studying controlling is worthwhile:
Controlling is the backbone of every successful corporate management. Controllers provide crucial data and analyses that are essential for strategic decisions. They ensure transparency, identify potential savings and help to efficiently achieve corporate goals.
Due to their high level of responsibility and important role in the company, controllers usually enjoy attractive remuneration. In particular, above-average salaries are possible with increasing professional experience or specialization in controlling.
Controlling offers numerous opportunities for specialization and further training. Whether in the area of digitization, performance management or sustainability controlling – additional qualifications can be used to constantly improve your career prospects and adapt them to current market developments.
Graduates of our Controlling program have excellent career prospects. They can work in almost any industry – from medium-sized companies to multinational corporations. In addition, career paths in business consulting or financial management are also open to them.
If you have analytical thinking skills, an affinity for numbers and an interest in economic interrelationships, then controlling is the right place for you. The profession combines strategic planning with operational control and offers an exciting mix of theory and practice.
In times of economic uncertainty, skilled employees in controlling are in particularly high demand. Companies need qualified experts who can optimize cost structures and ensure financial stability – so a degree in controlling is a future-proof choice.
Below you can find out what advantages MBS offers you in Controlling Studies.
In the following, we will briefly explain what is meant by the concepts mentioned in the Bachelor's Program in Controlling.
Concentrations are advanced topics that you can choose within your study program to specialize in specific areas such as marketing, finance or entrepreneurship. In some programs, you can even choose more than one Concentration.
Elective courses give you the opportunity to choose the modules that match your interests and career goals, allowing you to tailor your studies to your individual needs. In many degree programs, you can choose more than one elective course.
A degree program with an international focus prepares you for the challenges and opportunities of global markets through intercultural content, languages and often international experiences such as semesters abroad.
A semester abroad allows you to study at a partner university in a foreign country, gain international experience and improve your language and intercultural skills.
An internship is a practical experience in a company where you apply your theoretical knowledge, gain professional insights and make valuable contacts.
A Master Top-up program enables students with a first university degree to obtain a full Master's degree in a short period of time by completing only the missing modules.
A mentoring program connects you with experienced professionals or alumni who are ready to provide valuable advice, career tips, and personal support.
Studying in English means that some or even all courses and exams are offered in English, which broadens international career opportunities and strengthens language skills.
A pre-Bachelor's program prepares prospective students for a Bachelor's Program by teaching them the basics and improving their language and subject knowledge.
A scholarship is a financial award given to students based on merit, need, or special qualifications to reduce the cost of studying.
The accreditations of all universities are an important indicator of the quality and recognition of their degree programs. Organizations such as the German Council of Science and Humanities, the Ministry of Education and FIBAA, as well as renowned international accreditation institutions such as AMBA and AACSB, examine academic excellence, practical orientation and compliance with global standards. Universities such as Munich Business School are continuously committed to renewing existing accreditations and obtaining new certifications. In the following, we provide an overview of the most important accreditations for your studies in controlling at MBS.
| Munich Business School | Public German Universities | |
|---|---|---|
| State Accreditation | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| FIBAA | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Accreditation by the German Council of Science and Humanities | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| AACSB | ✔️ | ❌ |
| AMBA | ❌ | ❌ |
MORE INFO?
If you would like more information about the rankings and accreditations of Munich Business School, please visit our dedicated page.
Rankings & Accreditations of the MBSStudents at Munich Business School often work with these companies.
210
6 Semesters + Bachelor's thesis
German/English
Full-time Study
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
Integrated
Built-in
February & September
Are you interested in details of the Bachelor Controlling program? This detailed course of studies for the Bachelor International Business at MBS, where you can choose the “International Finance” specialization and thus receive an optimal Financial Management Studies, provides you with the details you need.
Pick 1 out of 6:
Pick 1 out of 6:
Complete your first internship in the lecture-free period between the second and third semester
Pick 1 out of 6:
Feel more connected to the MBS community by actively participating in a variety of extracurricular opportunities.
20 ECTS from the field of international business studies at the partner university
Duration: 10 Weeks
In the International Innovation Management concentration, you will learn to manage innovation processes from the idea to marketing. You focus on customer needs, use market research and current methods such as design thinking. You will research technology trends and implement your own innovation projects in groups.
In this concentration, students learn the basics of market-oriented business management. The focus is on marketing & sales in the digital age. The course covers strategies such as market analysis, brand management and the optimal marketing mix, including market research and sales management. The goal is to secure long-term success on a national and international level.
In the International Finance concentration, students acquire in-depth knowledge in controlling, corporate finance and asset management for the global context. The focus is on modern methods and tools, including investment calculations, financing decisions, foreign trade financing and risk assessment on an international level.
In the International Procurement, Production and Logistics concentration, students learn to efficiently manage global supply chains. The focus is on optimizing the flow of goods and services in times of globalization and digitalization. The aim is to supply end customers on time, cost-effectively and in high quality.
In the International Human Resources Management and Leadership concentration, students acquire in-depth knowledge of strategic human resources management at an international level. The focus is on the role of employees as critical success factors, as well as on topics of leadership and development of employees.
Deepen your accounting knowledge from the first part of the MBS program and learn, for example, about the structure, concept and elements of accounting according to IFRS.
Feel more connected to the MBS community by actively participating in a variety of extracurricular opportunities.
Select from the following languages: Arabic, Russian, French, Chinese, Spanish, German
Pick 1 out of 3
Pick 1 out of 3
Choose a seminar that matches your concentration and prepare yourself optimally for your bachelor thesis.
Further individualize your studies and deepen the areas you are particularly interested in, such as:
At the end of your studies, you will understand the importance of ethical decisions in the business world, which has been addressed in different courses in all semesters. Regardless of the level – company, leader or individual - ethical behavior in the sense of our MBS value act responsible is crucial!
Select from the following languages: Arabic, Russian, French, Chinese, Spanish, German
Duration: 10 Weeks
Last but not least: Writing your Bachelor Thesis.
"I think that anyone who is planning to study Business Studies should consider coming to MBS. You learn in a much more practice-oriented way and are also taught a lot about real processes in companies and the skills you need for them."
Joshua on StudyCHECK
A degree in controlling imparts a wide range of perspectives, skills and knowledge that are important for working in the financial market. Here are some typical course contents:
✓ Risk management: analysis, evaluation and control of risks in a business context.
✓ Financial Management: Analysis and interpretation of financial data, preparation of budgets, cash flow management.
✓ Cost Accounting: Application of cost accounting methods to determine and analyze cost structures.
✓ Corporate Planning and Control: Development of corporate goals, planning of measures to achieve goals, strategic orientation.
✓ Controlling Instruments: Use of controlling instruments such as key figures, balanced scorecard, SWOT analysis.
✓ Process optimization: identification and optimization of business processes to increase efficiency.
✓ IT controlling: use of information technology to support controlling processes, implementation of controlling systems.
✓ Business ethics and compliance: consideration of ethical aspects and legal guidelines in the context of controlling.
✓ Project management: application of project management methods in the context of controlling projects.
✓ Soft skills: development of key competencies such as communication, teamwork and presentation techniques.
Studying controlling opens up numerous career opportunities in various areas of corporate management and financial planning. The combination of analytical skills, business knowledge and strategic thinking makes graduates sought-after specialists. Here are six promising professions that you can pursue after studying controlling:
The classic career path after studying controlling leads to the role of controller. In this position, you analyze key business figures, create reports and support management in the financial management of the company.
As a financial analyst, you evaluate a company's financial position, analyze investments and make recommendations to optimize financial performance. This position is particularly in demand in the banking and investment sectors.
If you have strong analytical and communication skills, you can work as a business consultant with a focus on controlling and finance. In this position, you will advise companies on financial optimization strategies and efficiency improvements.
With the appropriate professional experience and leadership skills, you can advance to a senior position in controlling. As head of controlling, you are responsible for a company's entire financial management and are the central point of contact for senior management and executives.
Digitalization has expanded the role of controlling experts. Data analysts with a focus on finance and controlling use modern analysis tools to evaluate large amounts of data and use the results to develop strategic recommendations for the company.
In this role, the focus is on identifying, evaluating and managing financial and operational risks. Companies rely on risk controllers to protect themselves against economic uncertainties and remain competitive in the long term.
DID YOU KNOW?
To find out more about the professions of Controller, Business Consultant, Data Analyst and other Business Studies professions, visit the following page:
Business Administration Jobs| Prerequisites | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-level positions | about €47.800 per year |
| Mid-career level | about €55.000 - 72.000 |
| Executive level | about €156.500 + |
| Industry | Industry-dependent – e.g. higher in Risk Controlling |
| Location | Higher in metropolitan areas like Munich |
| Experience | In most cases, the more experience, the higher the salary |
| Qualifications | In most cases, the more qualifications, such as a master's degree, the higher the salary |
DID YOU KNOW?
After an MBS Bachelor's or Master's degree, you can also take up all these professions abroad without any problems.
No, accounting and controlling are not the same thing, although they are related. Accounting, also known as bookkeeping, focuses mainly on recording, documenting and analyzing financial transactions. It includes the preparation of annual financial statements and financial reports. In contrast, controlling refers to the planning, management and monitoring of company processes. It includes strategic aspects such as goal setting, cost management and performance analysis, but goes beyond purely financial accounting by also influencing operational and strategic decision-making processes.
A controlling study program is an educational program that focuses on training students in the planning, management and control of business processes. It offers a comprehensive apprenticeship in Financial Management, Cost Accounting and Strategic Controlling. Students acquire the knowledge and skills to help companies achieve their goals effectively, use resources efficiently, and make well-founded decisions at an operational and strategic level. The study program imparts practical skills that are essential for a career as a controlling expert in various industries.
For a career in controlling, a study in Business Studies or a related course is usually required. Typical degree programs that provide a solid foundation for controlling include Business Studies with a focus on Controlling, Business Information Systems, Corporate Management or Finance. A Bachelor's degree is often sufficient, while some positions may prefer a Master's degree. It is important that the chosen study program covers relevant modules in the field of controlling to ensure a comprehensive apprenticeship in this field.
At Munich Business School, you can study International Business in the Bachelor's and Master's degree programs with corresponding specializations. Munich Business School will also be offering the new Master International Business | Finance program from 2024.
In Financial Management Studies, students acquire sound knowledge of Financial Management, Cost Accounting, Corporate Planning and Control. Students learn to analyze financial data, draw up budgets and apply methods of performance and success evaluation. The study program also teaches skills in using controlling tools and systems. In addition to financial aspects, strategic planning, decision-making and operational management are also covered. Practice-oriented approaches enable students to successfully master complex business management challenges in the field of controlling.
The duration of a Controlling study program can vary depending on the degree chosen. A Bachelor's Program in Controlling usually takes around three to four years. If you are aiming for a Master's degree, you can plan for an additional one to two years of study after completing your Bachelor's degree. The exact duration also depends on the respective study guidelines of the college or university. It is important to note that some students also choose part-time or part-time programs, which can extend the duration of study.
Controlling is a business management term that encompasses various measures and activities aimed at ensuring the planning, management and control of company processes. The aim of controlling is to achieve corporate goals efficiently, make optimum use of resources and ensure profitability. It acts as an instrument for monitoring and controlling operational processes in order to support successful corporate management.
What are the most important tasks of controlling? What are the tasks of the controller?
Download Information Material
In our exclusive and non-binding information material, you can find out everything you need to know about:
Controlling can comprise various sub-areas, such as cost controlling, financial controlling, quality controlling or project controlling. Large companies often have their own controlling department, while in smaller companies these functions can also be performed by other departments.
It is important to emphasize that controlling is not limited to financial aspects, but also includes operational and strategic aspects to enable comprehensive corporate management.
DID YOU KNOW?
The MBS blog offers more information, some interviews and testimonials from alumni who are now working as controllers in large and well-known companies.
E.G.: MBS Alumna Martina Essler Shares Insights Into »Sustainable Product Controlling @ AUDI«
A degree in controlling forms the basis for a successful career in the business management of companies. In order to study this subject successfully, certain prerequisites and personal qualities are of crucial importance. The following lists outline the necessary formal requirements that students should bring with them, as well as the essential qualities and skills that are important for a successful controlling degree.
In Germany, there are a large number of degree courses in controlling or related subjects. Here are some of the most popular courses:
It is important to check the exact curricula and content of the respective universities to ensure that the chosen course covers the desired focus in the area of controlling. In addition, part-time or dual study programs also offer the opportunity to combine theory and practice.
A Business Studies degree with a focus on controlling offers a broader and more comprehensive apprenticeship that takes into account the versatility of business management contexts. Students who choose to study Business Studies not only gain specific expertise in the field of controlling, but also a solid foundation in other business disciplines. This holistic perspective enables graduates to be better able to understand the complex interactions between different business areas.
A Business Studies degree also offers the flexibility to prepare for different career paths. While a specialized controlling degree focuses on the specific techniques and methods of controlling, it may neglect the broader business aspects. A Business Studies degree with a Controlling focus enables students to succeed not only as Controlling specialists, but also in other areas of business management, such as Financial Management, Marketing or Human Resources.
In addition, the combination of Business Studies and Controlling provides a solid basis for management positions. Managers and executives in the corporate environment often need to have a comprehensive understanding of the overall business situation in order to make well-founded decisions. A Business Studies degree with a focus on controlling provides both the necessary technical knowledge in controlling as well as the strategic and analytical skills required for a successful management level.
Munich Business School not only offers you a degree in Business Studies, but also focuses on international business. This provides you with the perfect prerequisite for practicing your chosen profession anywhere in the world after graduation. The Bachelor International Business at MBS offers many highlights such as semesters abroad, business projects, internships, networking opportunities and much more. At Munich Business School, you can expect small study groups, dedicated teachers and award-winning programs. But more importantly, we value you as a person. Here, you are not an anonymous member, but the driving force that motivates us every morning. We take time to listen to your concerns and offer you a tailor-made study experience thanks to our status as a small, private university. Our lecturers have extensive practical experience and teach you skills that really count. In addition to in-depth business knowledge, we also promote values and skills that will give you an understanding of sustainability and social responsibility as a future controller and prepare you perfectly for a wide range of professions.
MBS offers many advantages that are only possible thanks to its status as a private University of Applied Sciences. You will benefit from the following advantages during your studies at MBS:
Small class sizes & further educational opportunities such as the Pre-Bachelor Program
Professors with Experience in Business & Specialists as Guest Lecturers
Finance and Economics in an International Context
Broad Business Studies & specialized Knowledge through focal points
Worldwide Career Opportunities through International Studies
A controlling degree is a business administration course that aims to qualify students in the areas of planning, management and control of business processes. The typical course of study in controlling can vary depending on the university and degree program, but basic elements are usually included.
At the end of the course, students usually receive a Bachelor's degree, e.g. "Bachelor of Science" (B.Sc.) or "Bachelor of Arts" (B.A.), depending on the specific course guidelines. For a more in-depth qualification or an academic career, graduates can also pursue a subsequent Master's degree, such as a Master of Science (M.Sc.) or Master of Arts (M.A.).
Application
In order to qualify for admission to the business administration and bachelor studies at Munich Business School, you must first meet certain requirements regarding previous schooling and language skills. MBS offers several application rounds and recommends that you submit your application early as the number of places is limited.
There are three admission pathways to the Bachelor’s program at Munich Business School:
Munich Business School also offers a Pre-Bachelor program in International Business as the ideal preparation for bachelor’s-level study.
English Proficiency
Applicants for the Bilingual Track must proof their English language skills by passing one of the following language tests:
Note: If the test is also used to apply for a visa, please check the requirements of the respective embassy in advance.
Test results can only be accepted if achieved within the last two years. If you are unable to obtain your test results before handing in your MBS application, please advise us of your planned test date.
The English proficiency test can be waived by applicants having completed their schooling in English (i.e. US High School Diploma, IB Diploma).
English Proficiency
If you apply for the English Track, you must proof your English language skills by passing one of the following language tests:
Note: If the test is also used to apply for a visa, please check the requirements of the respective embassy in advance.
Test results can only be accepted if achieved within the last two years. If you are unable to obtain your test results before handing in your MBS application, please advise us of your planned test date.
The English proficiency test can be waived by applicants having completed their schooling in English (i.e. US High School Diploma, IB Diploma).
You would like to change university and continue your studies at Munich Business School? We offer Bachelor students the possibility of a transfer to the 2nd or 3rd semester. Previous knowledge in the fields of business administration and management, business law, accounting, mathematics and economics is required. Equivalent study and examination achievements, which have been acquired in an economics program in the basic studies, are counted towards the first two semesters of the bachelor's program at MBS up to a total of 60 ECTS.
Pre-Check of your academic achievements
For a non-binding pre-check of your academic achievements, please submit your curriculum vitae, an official grade confirmation as well as the official module descriptions of the courses you have already completed (with details on ECTS number per course, learning content, number of hours, type of final achievement and learning outcomes). The administrative fee for the Pre-Check is 60 euros. In case of a subsequent application to MBS, the application fee is waived.
Admission requirements
Application deadlines for transfer students
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact our student advisory service.
Application Documents
Online Application
Application Fee
Please transfer the application fee of 60 Euro to:
Munich Business School GmbH
Account 1020132229
Deutsche Kreditbank (Bank Code 120 300 00)
BIC: BYLADEM1001
IBAN: DE23120300001020132229
or via PayPal: paypal@munich-business-school.de
Application Rounds
Upon receipt of the application fee, the Admission Office checks your documents and invites you to a personal interview. You will receive your feedback within three days. Since the number of study places is limited, we recommend an early application. Your application is possible up to one year in advance. You will then submit your school leaving certificate and proof of English language skills by the start of your studies at the latest.
Scholarships
MBS offers partial scholarships to committed prospective students. In order to apply for one of the limited scholarships, please submit a personal statement with your application for a study place. In this statement you convincingly justify your interest in the scholarship program. You can find further information at Scholarships and Financing.
MBS offers application rounds on a monthly basis. You pick one round for your application.
The next application deadlines for a program start in 2025:
Round November: application deadline 15.11. with personal interview in Nov/Dec
Round December: Application deadline 15.12. with personal interview in Dec/Jan
Round January: Application deadline 15.01. with personal interview in Jan/Feb
Round February: Application deadline 15.02. with personal interview in Feb/March – Early Bird Deadline Discount!
Round March: Application deadline 15.03. with personal interview in March/April
The personal interview (approx. 45 minutes) consists of three parts:
You will receive the results of the interview within one week. If you are accepted, the Admission Office will send you your personal study contract. The place of study is then reserved for three weeks. To secure your place of study, you return your signed contract to MBS by e-mail or mail and make a deposit.
Upon acceptance of the study place, you will be required to pay an enrollment fee of 690 Euro (for international students: 1,490 Euro) and a deposit of 1,990 Euro. The latter is offset against the payment installment of your semester fee.
If you are a Non-EU national, you are required to apply for a student visa in order to start your studies in Germany. To obtain a visa invitation letter from Munich Business School, please take the following steps:
1. Hand in your signed study contract and a copy of your passport details page.
2. Transfer the one-time enrollment fee and the deposit of 1,990 Euro. The deposit will be deducted from the first semester tuition installment.
Munich Business School offers attractive scholarships. These are 10 - 50% for the 1st and 2nd Bachelor semester. The application for one of the scholarships is made together with the application for a study place. Further information can be found under "Scholarships and financing".
The program is also aimed at pre-bachelor students.
The International Business Bachelor program at MBS is not only much more than just learning specialist knowledge, but also a forward-looking program. If you want to look at international business in a holistic context, then you've come to the right place. During your Bachelor of Arts in International Business, our lecturers will support you in becoming a responsible business person who not only has professional competence, but also essential soft skills, a broad cultural understanding and a strong personality.
We firmly believe that success will only be achieved by those who see international business and management in a holistic context, taking into account social developments, political, historical and global contexts.
Our Bachelor in International Business is characterized by its compact structure. It comprises six to seven semesters of study and concludes with a Bachelor's thesis. During your studies, you will complete at least three internships both in Germany and abroad and spend one or two semesters abroad to put your theoretical knowledge into practice and expand your international network.
You can study this program either bilingually in the Bilingual Track (70% German/30% English) or completely in English in the English Track (100% English) to prepare you for global challenges.
The studies at MBS focus on the international market. A large part of the course content is taught in English and MBS students come from all over the world.
Internationality is also expressed through the semester abroad. Students spend the last semester at one of our more than 60 partner universities around the world.
Students work on a business project for a real company. In doing so, they apply the theoretical knowledge gained during their studies in practical applications.
The Munich Business School in Numbers
There are a variety of professions and career opportunities in the field of controlling, as controlling plays a central role in corporate management. The following professions can be found in companies of different sizes and in various industries, such as financial services, manufacturing, retail, healthcare or consulting. The exact title and tasks may vary depending on the company. Here are some professions that can be performed in the field of controlling:
| Controller | Responsible for planning, controlling and monitoring company processes, financial analyses and budgeting. |
|---|---|
| Financial Analyst | Analyzes financial data, prepares reports, forecasts and recommendations for financial decision-making. |
| Cost Accountant | Specialized in cost accounting, determination of production costs and support in pricing. |
| Risk Manager | Identification, evaluation and management of risks in the company in order to minimize financial losses. |
| Business Intelligence Analyst | Analyzes company data to identify trends, patterns and support strategic decisions. |
| Treasury Manager | Responsible for liquidity management, financing and capital procurement. |
| Internal Auditor | Review and monitor internal business processes to ensure compliance with company policies and standards. |
| Controlling Manager | Management and coordination of the controlling department, strategic orientation of controlling in the company. |
| Project Controller | Specialized in the management and monitoring of projects, including cost management and budget control. |
| Controller in Business Consultancy | Advising companies on controlling issues, implementing effective controlling structures and processes. |
