Master's in Finance HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management

This curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of finance, combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience to prepare them for careers in the financial industry.

Core Courses:

• Finance & Accounting: Advanced Corporate Finance, Financial Accounting, Management Accounting
• Quantitative Methods: Financial Mathematics, Statistics, Econometrics
• Economics: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics
• Law & Ethics: Business Law, Ethics in Finance
• Leadership & Strategy: Strategic Management, Leadership Development​

Elective Courses:

• Corporate Valuation
• Mergers & Acquisitions
• Private Equity & Venture Capital
• Financial Markets & Institutions
• Risk Management
• Financial Modelling​

Practical Components:

• Case studies
• Company projects
• Internships (optional)
• Master’s thesis​

The Master’s in Finance is an intensive programme designed to equip students with advanced financial expertise and strong strategic decision-making skills. It is taught entirely in English and takes place on site in Leipzig, combining academic excellence with practical application.

The programme can be completed in two formats: a fast-track option in 15 months (90 ECTS) or an advanced track lasting 21–24 months (120 ECTS), offering additional flexibility and international exposure.

Programme structure:

Welcome Weeks The programme begins with dynamic Welcome Weeks, featuring activities such as a BBQ, dragon boat tour, and city-wide team rally. These experiences help students build connections and immerse themselves in the HHL community.

Finance Prep Optional blended learning modules allow students to refresh their knowledge in key areas such as accounting, business modelling, mathematics, and statistics.

Essentials Core courses cover management fundamentals, soft skills, and finance basics, including economics, problem-solving, negotiation, financial analysis, coding, and econometrics.

Finance Deep Dives Students tailor their expertise by selecting three specialised courses, such as corporate valuation, financing, alternative investments, capital markets, or reporting.

Case Study Seminar In this capstone seminar, students apply their knowledge to real-world financial cases and present their results to industry experts from firms such as EQT, Barclays, and BNP Paribas.

Master’s Thesis Students complete an independent research project, contributing to current topics in finance, with the potential for publication in academic journals.

The advanced track includes an integrated study abroad term at one of HHL’s 140+ partner universities, as well as at least one internship, with the option to complete up to three internships. This extended format is ideal for students seeking deeper practical experience and international exposure.

The programme prepares graduates for careers in investment banking, private equity, consulting, and financial management. Many courses are delivered in collaboration with leading companies, ensuring hands-on learning. In addition, students benefit from close personal support from faculty, providing individual guidance throughout their studies and during the Master’s thesis.

Internships are not mandatory in the fast-track version of HHL’s Master’s in Finance programme. However, students have the option to complete a voluntary internship before starting their Master’s thesis.

In the advanced track, one mandatory internship is included during the second year of studies. In addition, students have the opportunity to complete up to three internships in total, allowing for extensive practical experience.

• Bachelor’s degree in any field of study (ideally Business or STEM) with above average grades and at least 180 ECTS
• Above average academic performance during both high school (Abitur) and Bachelor's degree
• A competitive admission test score (HHL Entry Test or GMAT or GRE)
• Very good English skills (see below)
• Three or more months of relevant work experience by the programme’s start date

312 EUR

Compared to other major German cities, the cost of living in Leipzig is relatively affordable. Students should budget approximately 800 to 1,000 EUR per month, which covers rent, food, local transportation, health insurance, and personal expenses. Rent in particular is quite reasonable, making Leipzig an attractive and budget-friendly place to study.

Part-time jobs are possible alongside your studies, but since the programme is academically demanding, we recommend keeping work hours to a minimum.

HHL offers several early bird discounts and a variety of scholarships to support students in financing their studies.

HHL offers a highly active and personalised Career Service that supports students throughout their entire career journey. Services include CV and cover letter checks, one-on-one career coaching, and tailored guidance to help students define and achieve their professional goals. The Career Service also facilitates valuable connections with HHL alumni, top-tier companies, and recruiters through regular networking opportunities and career events on campus.

HHL students have a variety of housing options in Leipzig. Many choose to live in student dormitories managed by the "Studentenwerk Leipzig", which offer affordable and conveniently located rooms. Others prefer shared apartments ("WGs"), which are very popular among students and provide a great way to connect with fellow students. For those seeking more privacy, small private apartments are also widely available throughout the city. Leipzig’s housing market is generally student-friendly, with a good balance of quality and cost.