Cologne Business School (CBS) is a private, state-recognized university in Germany offering practice-oriented Bachelor's, Master's, and MBA programs. It provides an international environment with strong industry connections and flexible learning formats.
Cologne Business School (CBS) is a private, state-recognised university of applied sciences founded in 1993 in Cologne, Germany. It offers practice-oriented Bachelor's, Master's, MBA, and preparatory programs in business, social sciences, health, and education across eight locations. CBS combines small class sizes, flexible learning formats, and a network of approximately 1,300 corporate partners to give students direct pathways into competitive careers. The school holds AACSB, IACBE, and FIBAA accreditations and is active in the global UN PRME responsible-management network.
Student life at CBS is shaped by small, diverse cohorts drawn from more than 75 countries. The Rhine-side campus in Cologne provides a vibrant social backdrop, and the city's media, finance, and creative industries open doors for part-time work and internships. CBS runs an active alumni network and career services unit, organising corporate visits, career fairs, and mentoring to help students land their first roles.
Scholarships of up to 25% of tuition are available for outstanding students, particularly via the Prep4University pathway.
CBS is state-recognised in Germany and holds international accreditations from AACSB, IACBE, and FIBAA. It is also accredited by Akkreditierungsrat and Wissenschaftsrat, and is a UN PRME Signatory Member.
Non-EU/EEA students must obtain a national student visa (Type D) before arrival and then convert it to a student residence permit at the local Foreigners’ Authority (Ausländerbehörde). To prove financial self-sufficiency, most applicants open a blocked account (Sperrkonto) holding €11,904 — €992 per month for twelve months — an amount in effect since 2024 and unchanged for 2026. The blocked account caps monthly withdrawals at €992 so the funds last the year.
Non-EU international students may work up to 140 full days or 280 half-days per calendar year without approval from the Federal Employment Agency — an allowance raised from the previous 120/240-day limit under the 2024 skilled-immigration reform. A shift of more than four hours counts as a full day. Student-assistant roles at the university (Hiwi positions) generally fall outside this cap, and hours during semester breaks count toward the same annual allowance.
After completing a degree at a German university, non-EU graduates are entitled to an 18-month residence permit to seek work under the Residence Act, during which any employment is allowed. Separately, the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte), introduced in June 2024, lets qualifying non-EU nationals enter to look for work for up to a year using a points system, with limited part-time work permitted. Recent German graduates qualify for the 18-month post-study permit directly, without the points test.
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
This Bachelor of Science program in Applied Nutritional Sciences (Angewandte Ernährungswissenschaft) combines scientific knowledge with practical application to equip you with the skills for effective nutritional counseling and therapy. You will learn to design, implement, analyze, and reflect on interventions for all age groups, contributing to health maintenance, quality of life, and positive disease management. The curriculum includes modules on food, sustainability, food trends, applied nutritional medicine, and consumer protection, preparing you for roles in interprofessional settings and the digital future of nutrition. The program emphasizes developing both your scientific understanding and practical competencies through projects and interactive seminars. It also covers related fields such as ethics, economics, law, sociology, pedagogy, and psychology of nutrition. The dual nature of the program suggests a strong connection between academic learning and practical experience, potentially involving industry partners. Students are encouraged to take an active role in shaping their healthy future and influencing the health and well-being of others. The curriculum aims to provide a solid foundation for a career focused on improving health outcomes through evidence-based nutritional strategies.
Experience practice-oriented business and management programmes on an international campus in Cologne. At CBS International Business School, you'll be perfectly prepared for the challenges and opportunities of a global economy. With programmes tailored to the latest industry developments, you will grow professionally and personally. Studying at our central Cologne campus means becoming part of a vibrant, international community with students from over 75 nations. You will gain subject-specific knowledge and develop valuable intercultural skills. Practical projects with companies, interactive business simulation games, and guest lectures from industry experts ensure immediate application and expansion of your knowledge. Whether full-time or part-time, CBS offers flexibility to prepare for your professional future while immersing yourself in dynamic campus life. Kick-start your business career with hands-on learning and global perspectives.
Cologne Business School (CBS) offers a range of Bachelor's and Master's programmes designed to advance your career and prepare you for real-world professional challenges. The school emphasizes a blend of academic excellence and hands-on experience, equipping students with practical skills from the outset. CBS provides flexible study options, including part-time and full-time, to accommodate diverse lifestyles. Students become part of an engaging learning community that combines personal on-campus interaction with digital learning formats. The curriculum is strongly integrated with theory and practice, supported by personal talent coaching, a strong career network, and practical experience opportunities to foster rapid career development.
The dual Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Dental Hygiene and Prevention Management at CBS University of Applied Sciences is designed for individuals who have completed training as dental assistants or dental prophylaxis assistants and wish to advance their expertise in prevention, dental hygiene, and practice management. This program blends online learning, regular on-campus sessions, and practical application. It aims to equip students with in-depth knowledge in specialist areas, leadership skills, and competencies in evidence-based dentistry, communication, and patient coaching. Graduates will be well-prepared for roles in dental practices, dental centers, the dental industry, and educational institutions.
The Master of Science in Global Finance program equips you with the analytical skills and knowledge to understand and navigate national and international financial markets. You will learn to design effective financial strategies, make informed decisions in complex environments, and manage capital flows to drive sustainable growth. The curriculum emphasizes the integration of financial analysis, strategy, and corporate development, preparing you to assess investments and enhance company value within a strategic context. Education at CBS is practical, interactive, and internationally focused, with experienced professors guiding you through real-world business cases and simulations. Studying in Germany, home to Europe's largest economy, provides a strategic advantage for a global finance career.
full fundingOpen to applicants who hold or expect a Master's degree in Computer Science or a related field, with strong coding skills, an interest in large-scale software projects and the ability to write and present in English (no German required). Candidates should be passionate about high-quality academic research, willing to mentor undergraduate students, and have a long-term vision and persistence for deep research. Positions are filled on a rolling basis as suitable candidates are identified.
full fundingOpen to international students of all nationalities with a strong academic background in computer science, data science, or a related field, or a degree in a domain science (such as life sciences, medicine, health, earth observation, or robotics) or interdisciplinary fields (such as geoinformatics or bioinformatics) with a strong data science emphasis. Applicants need a passion for applying state-of-the-art data science techniques to real-world scientific challenges. Selection is based on academic record, research potential, and motivation.
full fundingOpen to applicants who hold a Master's degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering or a related field, with strong knowledge of metallurgy, slip/twinning mechanisms and the mechanical behaviour of metals. Experience with magnesium (Mg) alloys, micro-compression or SEM techniques is an advantage. Candidates need strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary, international environment. The post is a salaried PhD position open to international applicants.
Open to applicants of all nationalities who hold a Master's degree in soil science, geosciences, environmental sciences or a closely related field, are proficient in written and spoken English, and are physically fit for extended fieldwork in tropical regions (Ghana and India). Experience with soil analysis, spectral tools and drone operations is an advantage but not mandatory.
full fundingOpen to international applicants who hold a master's degree in Chemical, Mechanical or Electrical Engineering or a related field with strong academic performance, with experience in electrochemical modelling and simulation, knowledge of PEM and AEM electrolyser technology, skills in automation and data analysis (Python, LabVIEW), and proficiency in German and English.
full fundingFor researchers from abroad — postdoctoral (normally within 4 years of a PhD) or experienced (within 12 years of a PhD) — to carry out a long-term research stay in Germany with a host of their choice. Selection is on academic record and research potential; applications can be submitted at any time.
International students can expect tuition fees to range from approximately €6,000 to €14,000 per academic year, varying by program level (Bachelor's or MBA).
The estimated monthly cost for living in Cologne, covering housing, food, transport, and personal expenses, is between €850 and €1,100.
For programs taught in English, students typically need an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 overall or a TOEFL iBT score of 80.
Yes, Cologne Business School offers scholarships, including the Prep4University Bachelor Scholarship, which can cover up to 25% of tuition fees for outstanding students.
Cologne Business School is a private, state-recognised university holding international accreditations from AACSB, IACBE, and FIBAA.