„I had a fantastic time at WHU. I think the program is planned and managed well in terms of accommodation as well as the curriculum. It is a great opportunity to learn about business in Germany and Europe and get a practical perspective of how the history, culture and world events shape the economy there. Meeting people and making friends from universities all around the world was very positive and a fun experience.
The residence was about an 8-minute walk from the building where we had our classes. Upon arrival I enjoyed meeting some of my classmates from other parts of Canada and the United States. WHU had many plans for the duration of our stay which was fun and taught us a lot about the history of the region as well giving us chances to visit many places nearby.“
MBA European Summer Program
Dauer:
2 Wochen
Akademische Stunden:
48
Kontaktstunden in kulturellen Bereichen:
22
Studienort
Vallendar
Sprache
Englisch
Credits
3 US Credits oder 6 ECTS
The Changing Environment for International Business in Europe
Interaktive Kurse und Praxiserfahrung - Europa im Herzen Deutschlands erleben
In enger Zusammenarbeit mit ihren vielzähligen internationalen Partneruniversitäten organisiert die WHU als Alternative zu einem Austauschsemester jedes Jahr ein Sommerprogramm für MBA-Studierende ihrer Partneruniversitäten. Das Programm findet auf dem attraktiven Campus der WHU in Vallendar statt, der sich unmittelbar vor den Toren Koblenz mitten im Rheintal befindet, und bietet eine aufeinander abgestimmte Kombination aus Vorlesungen, Gruppenarbeiten, Firmenbesuchen und kulturellen Aktivitäten. Das politische und wirtschaftliche Umfeld in Europa und dessen Auswirkungen auf die Geschäftsbeziehungen in dieser Region bilden den thematischen Schwerpunkt. Die Kurse sind für MBA-Studierende ausgelegt, die sich in ihrem zweiten Studienjahr befinden und sich für die Bereiche „International Business, Finance, Corporate Strategy“ interessieren.
Das nächste MBA European Summer Program findet im Mai 2026 statt. Teilnehmer können zwischen zwei Sessions wählen:
Session 1: 06. – 20. Mai 2026 oder Session 2: 10. – 22. Mai 2026 statt.
Das zweiwöchige Programm zu "The Changing Environment for International Business in Europe" wird von Prof. Dr. Michael Frenkel geleitet und beinhaltet die folgenden Themen:
- European Trade Integration and the Euro
- Competing in European Markets
- European Aspects of Family Business
- The Business Tax Environment in Europe
- Business Environment and Stratgies of FDI Investors in Central and Eastern Europe
- Entrepreneurship from a European Perspective
- The Relevance of Family Businesses in Europe
- Raising Capital in European Capital Markets
Das Programm wird in englischer Sprache gehalten und umfasst 48 akademische Stunden (entspricht drei Credits) sowie rund 22 Kontaktstunden im kulturellen Bereich (entspricht 2 Credits). In der Regel müssen Studierende, die an einer Partneruniversität der WHU eingeschrieben sind und von dieser nominiert werden, keine Studiengebühren für das Programm zahlen. Weitere Informationen zu den Programmkosten finden Sie in den nachfolgenden Abschnitten.
Herausragende akademische Kompetenz – Experten in Wissenschaft und Praxis
Unsere WHU-Expertinnen und Experten sind aktiv in der Forschung tätig, sodass stets die neuesten relevanten Erkenntnisse für die europäische Geschäftswelt in den Lehrplänen aufgenommen werden können. Zudem wird die herausragende Fakultät der WHU durch weitere international renommierte Fakultätsmitglieder unserer Partneruniversitäten ergänzt sowie durch diverse Vorträge, Praxisfallstudien und Workshops von Fachexpertinnen und -experten.
Werfen Sie einen Blick auf die Dozentinnen und Dozenten im MBA European Summer Program:
Jun.-Prof. Dr. Lisa Hillmann
Prof. Dr. Sonia Ferencikova
Prof. Dr. Nadine Kammerlander
Prof. Dr. Nic Schaub
Prof. Dr. Jürgen Weigand
Den nächsten Schritt wagen - Erfahren Sie mehr über das Anmeldeverfahren
Bewerben Sie sich jetzt bis zum 01. März 2026, um sich einen von nur 47 Plätzen pro Session zu sichern. Erfahren Sie mehr über den Anmeldeprozess, die Programmgebühren und die darin enthaltenen Leistungen.
In eigenen Worten – Erfahrungen von Programmteilnehmern
Das MBA European Summer Program bietet MBA-Studierenden aus der ganzen Welt die einzigartige Gelegenheit, internationale Lernerfahrungen zu sammeln, die darauf ausgerichtet sind, tiefe Kenntnisse des europäischen Geschäftsumfelds zu erwerben. Durch die Zusammenarbeit mit verschiedenen Bildungseinrichtungen und Unternehmen in ganz Europa konnte ein Programm entwickelt werden, das für die berufliche Zukunft der Teilnehmer von großem Vorteil ist.
Erfahren Sie hier, warum das MBA European Summer Program die optimale Wahl für Sie ist!
Arman Rasekh
University of Toronto
Canada
Megan Santoro
Northwestern University
USA
„Studying at WHU was the best decision I have made during my MBA experience. The program was beautifully coordinated and organized with amazing speakers throughout. From start to finish the hospitality and kindness at WHU was unparalleled. I would recommend the program to any MBA student.“
Nir Zalts
Tel-Aviv University, Coller School of Management
Israel
„This program at WHU exceeded all my expectations! It was a perfect combination of insightful lectures, interactive group work on case studies, enriching company visits and cultural experiences.
It was an experience that has significantly broadened my understanding of international business in Europe, and I gained a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the European market. I also had the honor to met professionals MBA candidates from all around the world, in various industries and backgrounds.
I highly recommend this program to anyone who looking to enhance their global business wisdom and immerse themselves in a dynamic learning environment.
That was by far the best part of my MBA journey!“
It was an experience that has significantly broadened my understanding of international business in Europe, and I gained a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the European market. I also had the honor to met professionals MBA candidates from all around the world, in various industries and backgrounds.
I highly recommend this program to anyone who looking to enhance their global business wisdom and immerse themselves in a dynamic learning environment.
That was by far the best part of my MBA journey!“
Alyssa Van Auker
University of Florida
USA
„When the pandemic made it impossible to study abroad at the end of my undergraduate studies, I did not think I would ever have the opportunity to study abroad again. Fast forward a couple of years and I joined the Master's of International Business program at Florida where I was presented with the opportunity to travel to Germany to attend the Summer MBA program at WHU and I could not be happier with my decision to take it. Spending two weeks at WHU has allowed me to meet and work with students from around the world to share experiences and knowledge that will help me in my career. The blend of classroom work, company visits, and social activities made this an amazing experience that I would recommend to any MBA or MIB student looking to expand their European business knowledge, and explore the continent a bit too.“
Pramod Venkataramanan
National University of Singapore
Singapore
„Participating in WHU's summer exchange program was one of the best decisions of my MBA. This immersive and cross-cultural experience covered diverse topics on European markets and business practices. The knowledgeable faculty greatly enhanced my learning. Vallendar provided a serene escape from my busy work life, allowing me to make friendships with peers from around the globe. The peaceful environment and the opportunity to explore various places in Germany and neighboring countries made the experience truly unforgettable. I highly recommend this short yet enriching program to any MBA or master’s student. Thank you for the opportunity.“
Theo Grimm
Université Laval
Canada
„A great experience in a university with great teachers who are invested and passionate. I met people from all over the world and was able to visit key European places from an economic and historical point of view. Beyond the professional and educational aspects, it was a great human experience that I'd recommend to anyone.“
Ke Joe Zhu
The University of North Carolina
USA
„The WHU Summer Program at WHU - Otto Beisheim School of Management in Germany, was an outstanding experience. Over two weeks, I gained deep insights into European business and economics. The curriculum covered critical topics such as the EU's regulatory environment, family business dynamics, FDI strategies in Central and Eastern Europe, and European capital markets.
The lectures, led by distinguished professors, offered both theoretical knowledge and practical applications. Highlights included understanding the complexities of the EU market, the nuances of CSR in family firms, and the strategic advantages of the CEE region. The program also emphasized the importance of business model innovation, using the St.Gallen Business Model Navigator as a framework.
This program exceeded my expectations, blending academic rigor with practical insights. The expertise of the faculty and the engaging learning environment made this experience transformative. I highly recommend the WHU Summer Program to anyone seeking to enhance their understanding of European business.“
The lectures, led by distinguished professors, offered both theoretical knowledge and practical applications. Highlights included understanding the complexities of the EU market, the nuances of CSR in family firms, and the strategic advantages of the CEE region. The program also emphasized the importance of business model innovation, using the St.Gallen Business Model Navigator as a framework.
This program exceeded my expectations, blending academic rigor with practical insights. The expertise of the faculty and the engaging learning environment made this experience transformative. I highly recommend the WHU Summer Program to anyone seeking to enhance their understanding of European business.“
Andrew Jimenez
University of Michigan
USA
„The short-term study abroad initiative at WHU - Otto Beisheim School of Management has been an incredible experience and exceeded all my expectations. The faculty were not only academically accomplished but also brought valuable industry insights that elevated classroom discussions. Interspersed between lectures were immersive experiences such as meeting with the CEO of a family business and having an insightful visit to the European Central Bank. These opportunities complimented our coursework and deepened our understanding of global business dynamics. Vallendar is such a charming, peaceful town and the perfect setting for study; WHU’s close integration with the town created a welcoming and memorable atmosphere. This program offered much more than academic value - it was a personal and professional milestone that I will always carry with me.“
Frank Walsh
Curtin University
Australia
„The WHU European Summer Program delivers a high-impact, globally relevant learning experience. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed, offering strategic insight into European markets, cross-border investment, and regulatory frameworks—all presented by leading faculty with real-world expertise. What sets this program apart is its ability to foster deep engagement among an international cohort of professionals and students. The dialogue, both in and outside the classroom, consistently challenged assumptions and broadened perspectives. Combined with high-quality company visits and cultural immersion, the experience sharpened my thinking and expanded my global business outlook. It’s a program I’d confidently recommend to anyone looking to elevate their understanding of international business in a European context.
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Jonathan Brennan
Indiana University
USA
„The WHU MBA European Summer program has been nothing short of transformative. We were able to dive deep into topics such as the EU, business competition in European markets, family business European capital markets, and entrepreneurship from a European prospective. Lectures on these topics were delivered at WHU’s beautiful campus located in the quaint German town of Vallendar, set along the picturesque Rhine River valley. These intellectually stimulating lectures were delivered by world class instructors who are experts in their respective fields. Our on-campus learning was complimented by several company visits and cultural activities throughout Germany. Highlights of such activities included visits to the European Central Bank, Allianz Global Investors, and the stately Burg Eltz castle. In order to be an exceptional business leader in the 21st century, it is essential to possess cultural awareness and a global perspective. This program has undoubtably added these elements to my MBA experience, making it even more worthwhile. Lastly, I quite enjoyed the networking opportunities and getting to call this area of Europe home for a few weeks.“
Katie Stahl
University of Tampa
USA
„The WHU MBA European Summer Program in Vallendar has been an incredible experience. I loved getting to visit such a wide range of businesses—from small family-run companies to global giants—and learning how they operate within the EU and beyond. Each visit gave me new insights into different industries and business cultures. Outside of class, exploring cities around the region added so much to the experience. I also really appreciated that each course was taught by a different professor, bringing diverse perspectives from around the world. It’s been a perfect mix of learning, culture, and professional growth.“
Benjamin Hinton
Queensland University of Technology
Australia
„Participating in the European Summer Program at WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management was an unforgettable and enriching experience. I found the program to be exceptionally well-structured, combining academic depth with cultural immersion and professional exposure. From the moment we were welcomed at Frankfurt Airport, the WHU team ensured everything ran smoothly. The opening sessions—including team-building activities and a warm welcome by Prof. Dr. Michael Frenkel—set a collaborative and intellectually engaging tone for the three-week journey.
The academic content was world-class. Each module, from The European Union and Its Business Implications to Entrepreneurship and Innovation from a European Perspective, was taught by leading experts who connected theory with real-world European business trends. The review sessions and study periods allowed for meaningful reflection and interaction. What truly elevated the experience were the company visits—to the European Central Bank, Deutsche Bank, and a local manufacturing family business. These site visits offered invaluable insights into how major European institutions and companies operate in a dynamic global environment.
Outside the classroom, WHU curated a series of cultural and social activities that allowed us to bond as a cohort and explore the beauty of the Rhineland. Highlights included a boat trip to Koblenz, a cocktail night at the ‘Gecko’ bar - an underground bar in the old town and a tour of the magnificent Burg Eltz Castle. There was also ample free time to individually explore all that the local area, Germany and nearby countries have to offer – all, a short bus or train ride away.
I return to Australia with new friendships, deeper business knowledge, and a broader perspective on European markets. I would wholeheartedly recommend the WHU European Summer Program to any student looking to expand their global horizons in a truly inspiring setting. Thanks again to the fantastic team at WHU, I can truly understand why they are ranked as one of the leading Business Schools in Europe!“
The academic content was world-class. Each module, from The European Union and Its Business Implications to Entrepreneurship and Innovation from a European Perspective, was taught by leading experts who connected theory with real-world European business trends. The review sessions and study periods allowed for meaningful reflection and interaction. What truly elevated the experience were the company visits—to the European Central Bank, Deutsche Bank, and a local manufacturing family business. These site visits offered invaluable insights into how major European institutions and companies operate in a dynamic global environment.
Outside the classroom, WHU curated a series of cultural and social activities that allowed us to bond as a cohort and explore the beauty of the Rhineland. Highlights included a boat trip to Koblenz, a cocktail night at the ‘Gecko’ bar - an underground bar in the old town and a tour of the magnificent Burg Eltz Castle. There was also ample free time to individually explore all that the local area, Germany and nearby countries have to offer – all, a short bus or train ride away.
I return to Australia with new friendships, deeper business knowledge, and a broader perspective on European markets. I would wholeheartedly recommend the WHU European Summer Program to any student looking to expand their global horizons in a truly inspiring setting. Thanks again to the fantastic team at WHU, I can truly understand why they are ranked as one of the leading Business Schools in Europe!“
Nate Plank
University of Pittsburgh
USA
„WHU knows how to administer a business education for the 21st century.
Each lecturer was phenomenal. Each case study was unique and relevant. The study group structure was reflective of the working world. Even the makeup of my cohort reflected the makeup of my own workplace in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Doing something different each day certainly highlights the relativity of time and one's appreciation for a given set of experiences.
The opportunity I have taken and utilized to create and maintain authentic, powerful relationships with people from vastly different regions of the world is something I will never forget. I will repeat here what I told Michael Frenkel during a casual a conversation after class one day, "This is already the best class I have taken in my MBA." That statement was true then and it is still true today.
This program has taught me that each culture and economic union has its strengths and flaws, it has also reaffirmed my belief that the true beauty of life exists not in a dichotomy of black and white, but a spectrum that incorporates between that black and white not only hues of gray, but also the powerful and surreal force of color.“
Each lecturer was phenomenal. Each case study was unique and relevant. The study group structure was reflective of the working world. Even the makeup of my cohort reflected the makeup of my own workplace in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Doing something different each day certainly highlights the relativity of time and one's appreciation for a given set of experiences.
The opportunity I have taken and utilized to create and maintain authentic, powerful relationships with people from vastly different regions of the world is something I will never forget. I will repeat here what I told Michael Frenkel during a casual a conversation after class one day, "This is already the best class I have taken in my MBA." That statement was true then and it is still true today.
This program has taught me that each culture and economic union has its strengths and flaws, it has also reaffirmed my belief that the true beauty of life exists not in a dichotomy of black and white, but a spectrum that incorporates between that black and white not only hues of gray, but also the powerful and surreal force of color.“
Frequently Asked Questions –
Zum MBA European Summer Program
Muss ich zur Teilnahme an dem Programm ein Visum beantragen?
Einige Staatsbürger, wie beispielsweise aus den USA, Kanada und Australien, die im Besitz eines gültigen Reisepasses sind, benötigen kein Visum für Aufenthalte von bis zu 90 Tagen. Der Reisepass darf jedoch nicht vor dem Ende der geplanten Reise ablaufen.
Bitte wenden Sie sich an Ihr örtliches deutsches Konsulat oder Ihre Botschaft um festzustellen, ob ein Visum erforderlich ist. Bitte beachten Sie, dass die WHU keine Visa ausstellen kann. Weitere Informationen zum Thema Visum erhalten Sie über das Auswärtige Amt.
Wann erhalte ich den genauen Programmplan?
Muster-Stundenpläne sind jederzeit online verfügbar und werden regelmäßig aktualisiert. Bitte beachten Sie, dass es sich dabei um vorläufige Angaben handelt und Änderungen vorbehalten sind. Den endgültigen Zeitplan erhalten Sie kurz vor Beginn des Programms.
Gibt es einen Abhol-Service am Flughafen?
Am ersten Tag des Programms wird ein Flughafentransfer vom Flughafen Frankfurt direkt an die WHU organisiert.
Wo: Flughafen Frankfurt, Treffpunkt Terminal 1
Wann: Zwischen 10:00 Uhr und 11:00 Uhr morgens
Zusätzlich wird nach dem Ende des Programms ein Airport Drop-Off organisiert.
Wo: Vallendar Mitte
Wann: Um 07:00 Uhr morgens:
Session I : Donnerstag, 21. Mai 2026
Session II: Samstag, 23. Mai 2026
Bitte informieren Sie Alyssa Scherer (alyssa.scherer@whu.edu) so bald wie möglich über Ihre Ankunft, damit Sie von dem Abhol-Service am Flughafen profitieren können.
Gibt es eine Kleiderordnung für das Programm?
Die allgemeine Regel lautet: „Smart Casual“ für den Unterricht und „Business Casual“ für Firmenbesuche und Veranstaltungen.
Soll ich meinen eigenen Laptop mitbringen?
Sie werden vollen Zugang zu unseren Computerräumen haben. Dennoch bitten wir Sie darum, zusätzlich Ihren eigenen Laptop mitzubringen.
Wann erhalte ich das Kursmaterial?
Vor Ihrer Ankunft werden Sie gebeten, sich mit verschiedenen Lektüren auf das Programm vorzubereiten. Diese werden Ihnen auf unserer Online-Plattform zur Verfügung gestellt. Den Login erhalten Sie per E-Mail. Achten Sie daher bitte darauf, dass Sie Ihr E-Mail-Konto regelmäßig überprüfen.
Kann ich eine Rückerstattung der Anmeldegebühr einfordern, wenn ich mich wieder abmelde?
Nach Ablauf der Bewerbungsfrist am 1. März 2025 werden die Online-Zahlungen überprüft. Anschließend ist eine Rückerstattung der Programmgebühr nicht mehr möglich.
Kontaktieren Sie uns –
Wir freuen uns auf Ihre Nachricht!
Gerne beantworten wir Ihre Fragen zum Programm, dem Ablauf und Inhalt sowie zu organisatorischen Themen. Sprechen Sie uns darüber hinaus gerne an, wenn Sie Kontakt zu ehemaligen Teilnehmern wünschen, die Ihnen Einblicke in ihre Erfahrungen geben können.
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