Why Pursue a Master’s in Finance in Germany? Key Benefits for International Students
Germany is a popular destination for international students pursuing a master’s in finance. Those looking to gain specialised skills and a broad understanding of the financial landscape choose to study in Germany for various reasons, from the country’s strong economy to its reputation for academic excellence.
Let’s explore some of the main reasons a master’s in finance in Germany is a great option for ambitious international students aiming to develop financial expertise.
What is a master’s in finance?
A master’s in finance is traditionally a one or two-year programme that combines financial theory and practical experience to help students develop a range of advanced skills to manage various challenges in the finance sector. The postgraduate degree offers advanced financial training, analysing key principles and strategies used to navigate the financial markets.
A master’s in finance degree is designed for those looking to advance their skills in specialised areas of finance, including financial analysis and accounting. These skills build a platform to launch a successful career and allow students to access lucrative opportunities in the finance industry.
Why study a master’s in finance in Germany?
There are many reasons international students choose to study finance in Germany, with thousands of students from around the world pursuing master’s in finance degrees throughout the country.
Here are some of the key reasons why a master’s in finance in Germany is so popular:
- Reputation for academic excellence
Germany’s reputation for having one of the best higher education systems in the world makes the country popular among international students. Germany’s investment in education allows the sector to maintain consistent growth, providing high-quality services and experiences for international students.
- Networking and employment opportunities
Many German universities that offer a master’s in finance have strong industry connections with global finance companies, including banks and regulatory bodies. These working relationships provide students with access to internships and opportunities to network with industry professionals.
Exposure through guest lectures and networking events provides students valuable insight into the German and global financial sectors and opportunities for professional growth.
- Global economic powerhouse
Germany has had the largest economy in Europe since 1980, highlighting its economic strength on a global scale. With many financial hubs in Germany, including the major financial centre in Frankfurt, Germany is an obvious choice for finance students looking to maximise their professional outlook.
Studying finance at the heart of Europe’s financial markets gives students access to diverse employment opportunities, including internships. It offers the optimal environment to develop in-demand finance skills and knowledge.
- Emphasis on innovation and research
Germany is known for its investment in innovation and research, which positively affects universities and higher education programmes. The country’s focus on financial research provides greater insight and analysis of the global economic climate and Germany’s strong financial position.
Those pursuing a master’s in finance can access opportunities to engage in applied research within the finance industry and develop research projects that analyse real-world financial challenges.
- English-taught programmes
Most postgraduate finance programmes in Germany are delivered in English, making it accessible to international students with English language skills. Students pursuing a master’s in finance in Germany can also pursue German language courses at their university alongside their degree, offering valuable language skills to enhance students’ career prospects.
Benefits of studying in Germany as an international student
Germany is one of the world’s most popular study destinations, with over 450,000 international students recorded in 2023/24. Every year, international students choose to study in Germany to benefit from its rich employment opportunities, experience its diverse environment and maximise personal growth.
Here are some of the main benefits of studying in Germany as an international student:
- Multicultural environment
One of the major benefits of studying in Germany is the exposure to a diverse student community. With thousands of international students, German universities create a multicultural environment for students to grow their network and share experiences with other international students.
Major German cities, including the capital city Berlin, are melting pots of culture and diversity, with worldwide representation everywhere you look. Berlin’s vibrant, multicultural feel creates a welcoming environment, which is attractive to international students.
- Low cost of living
Those looking to study finance in Germany may also be drawn to the country due to its low cost of living compared to other major European countries, like the UK and Switzerland. This allows international students to live independently and find affordable accommodation to maximise their experience.
- Career benefits
In addition to strong industry connections, many international students choose to study in Germany for career advantages upon graduation. Graduates from the EU/EAA can seek employment in Germany as soon as they graduate without the need to obtain a work permit, while non-EU/EAA students can access the 18-month post-study work visa.
The favourable graduate employment conditions are ideal for students who want to pursue a career abroad after they graduate from a German university.
- Desirable location
Germany’s central European location is another benefit of studying in Germany for international students. Connecting east and west Europe, Germany’s prime location makes it a global travel hub, providing easy access to the rest of the world. Many international students want to travel, and studying in Germany offers opportunities to explore the rest of Europe and take advantage of the country’s state-of-the-art infrastructure and transportation.
Study finance in Germany at BSBI
If Germany sounds like the perfect place for you to pursue a master’s in finance, check out the Berlin School of Business and Innovation (BSBI).
BSBI offers an MSc in Investments and Finance programme, delivered in partnership with the University for the Creative Arts and PPA Business School. Consisting of four terms, with modules including corporate finance, Islamic banking operations and quantitative finance and financial markets, this master’s in finance programme prepares students for a variety of roles within the finance sector.
With multiple enrolment dates, what are you waiting for? Study a master’s in finance in Germany today at BSBI’s Berlin campus. Learn more here.