Business Analytics & Econometrics – Master of Science University of Cologne

Data analytics, digital innovation and big data are crucial developments for the upcoming challenges in all business and economic areas. This programme offers a unique blend of traditional analytics (e.g. statistics, econometrics, optimisation, simulation) and modern analytical approaches (e.g. machine learning and artificial intelligence using R and Python) and merges these approaches with the teaching of groundbreaking knowledge in the areas of economics, management, and entrepreneurship.

This programme provides you with:

• fundamental analytics and technology skills
• groundbreaking knowledge and the mindset for a successful career in data analytics for business and economics
• vital skills for starting and managing a business in the digital age and resolving complex issues in today’s organisations
• an ability to gather, manage, and analyse (big) data as well as to visualise, present, and use insights gained from the data

Preparing you for future challenges

We believe in the right balance between sound theoretical foundations and practical relevance in a close interaction between the fields of business, analytical methods, and digital technologies.

The programme therefore focuses on:

• modern technologies and digitalisation (e.g. big data, digital innovation, digital transformation, digital business strategy, and digital entrepreneurship)
• the latest tools and methods in data analysis (e.g. machine learning and AI or methods from econometrics as well as Bayesian data analysis)
• tackling challenges arising from digitalisation (e.g. data privacy and security, algorithm ethics)

As a highlight of the curriculum, the Capstone Project brings you together with corporate/public partners to solve real-world business, economic and societal problems. Over a period of one semester, you will work as a team using cutting-edge approaches to data analytics in order to solve these problems, all while interacting within your team and with your partner organisation.

An internationally recognised expert faculty offers courses on business administration, econometrics, and information systems within this programme and will assist you even outside the classes.

During the first year of studies, you will learn the Foundation of Data Analytics, Digitalisation, and Data Analytics. 

During your third semester, you have the option to choose between one of two tracks:

The "Econometrics Track" focuses on advanced statistical and analytical methods to identify and resolve complex economic issues in the private, public, and non-profit sectors. This track places a strong emphasis on combining traditional and modern approaches to data analytics.

The "Business Analytics Track" focuses on applying approaches and methods of data analytics to solving complex business problems with (big) data. This track places a strong emphasis on forming a data-driven digital strategy, building a data-driven business model, engaging in digital entrepreneurship, and founding one’s own start-up company.

Bachelor's GPA of at least 2.5 (German grade)

• at least 30 ECTS in the fields of Business Administration and/or Economics

• at least 24 ECTS in the fields of Statistics and/or Mathematics and/or Information Systems and/or Informatics

or

• at least 48 ECTS in the fields of Statistics and/or Mathematics and/or Information Systems and/or Informatics

Please find detailed requirements here.

The semester contribution amounts to approx. 320 EUR per semester. The fee includes a public transport ticket for regional transport throughout Germany ("Deutschlandsemesterticket").

Scholarships and further financing options

WiSo Career Services

The University of Cologne is a modern university in the heart of Europe. Academic excellence, internationality, and widely varied curricula create a vibrant and inspiring environment for students, scientists, and scholars.

With a population of over one million people, Cologne is the fourth-largest city in Germany and the largest city in the federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia. Located in the heart of Europe on an ancient trade route – the Rhine River – Cologne has been an important trade location since the Middle Ages. Cologne has a booming economic sector that includes commerce, trades, banks, and international corporations. It is one of Europe's most important media hubs and is home to a variety of television and radio broadcasters. Furthermore, Cologne offers many museums, art exhibitions, cinemas, theatres, cultural events, international-level concerts, and, of course, the Cologne Carnival, which is the city's "fifth season".