"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
Duration:
2 Weeks
Academic Program hours:
48
Contact hours of a cultural program
22
Location
Vallendar
Language
English
Credits
3 US Credits or 6 ECTS
The Changing Environment for International Business in Europe
Interactive lectures and discussions – Gaining in-depth learning experiences
The WHU MBA European Summer Program comprises a two-week course on 'The Changing Environment for International Business in Europe' on the attractive campus in Vallendar, located just outside of Koblenz in the valley of the Rhine River. The program is designed for MBA students of WHU's partner schools in their second year who are interested in International Business, Finance, and Corporate Strategy. As an alternative to an exchange semester, the program offers a targeted and compact insight into international business in Europe. It offers a well-balanced combination of lectures, group work, company visits, and cultural experiences.
The next program will take place in May 2026, and students may participate in one of two available sessions:
Session 1: May 06 to May 20, 2026 or Session 2: May 10 to May 22, 2026.
The program, directed by Professor Dr. Michael Frenkel, focuses on the following topics:
- 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
The program is taught in English and comprises 48 academic hours (equivalent to three credits) plus around 22 contact hours of a cultural program (equivalent to two credits). In general, there is no tuition for students enrolled at and nominated by WHU's partner schools (to be confirmed individually). Check if your university is part of our Global Partner Network and find out more about the program costs below.
Faculty Providing academic excellence – WHU’s top-notch international faculty
Our expert faculty is actively engaged in research, allowing us to incorporate the latest relevant findings for the European business world into our curriculum. We also complement our outstanding faculty with relevant international faculty members from our partner schools, as well as lectures, real-life cases, and workshops from top practitioners and subject-matter experts.
Take a look at the faculty profiles of the MBA European Summer Program:
Assistant Professor Lisa Hillmann
Professor Sonia Ferencikova
Professor Nadine Kammerlander
Professor Nic Schaub
Professor Jürgen Weigand
Take the next step – Find out more about registration and payment
Apply by March 1, 2026 to save yourself one of just 47 seats per session. Find out more about the registration process, the program fees and included services.
In their own words – Testimonials from program participants
The MBA European Summer Program offers MBA students from around the world the opportunity to enjoy a tailor-made and in-depth learning experiences in a European business environment. By cooperating with various educational institutions and companies across the continent, we have created a program which greatly benefits the students’ professional futures.
Find out why the MBA European Summer Program is the best choice for you!
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.
"
"
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 –
Quick facts about the program.
Do I need to apply for a visa to join the program?
Some nationalities, such as Americans, Canadians, and Australians, in possession of a valid passport, do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. The passport must not expire before the end of the scheduled trip.
Please contact your local German Consulate or Embassy to determine whether a visa is required. Please note that WHU cannot issue visas. You will find further information via the Federal Foreign Office.
When do I receive the schedule?
Sample schedules are available online and will be updated on a regular basis. Please note that the online schedules are preliminary and subject to change. You will receive the final schedule shortly before the start of the program.
Is there an airport pick-up organized for my arrival?
An airport pick-up is organized for you on the first day of each session from Frankfurt Airport.
Where: Frankfurt Airport, Meeting Point Terminal 1
When: Between 10:00 and 11:00 am
Additionally, an airport drop-off is organized for you in the morning after the end of each session.
Where: Vallendar Mitte
When: At 07:00 am in the morning:
Session I : Thursday, 21st May 2026
Session II: Saturday, 23rd May 2026
Please inform Alyssa Scherer (alyssa.scherer@whu.edu) about your arrival schedule as soon as possible to make sure that you can profit from the airport pick-up. Please note that if you are unable to schedule a flight to arrive in time for the pick-up, or your arrival is delayed, you will be responsible for arranging your own transportation to WHU.
is there a dress code for the program?
The general rule is smart casual for classes and business casual for company visits and events.
Should I bring my laptop?
You will have full access to our computer facilities. However, we strongly recommend that you also bring your own laptop.
When will I get the course material?
Before your arrival, you will be asked to prepare for the program using pre-readings which you will find on our online platform. You will receive the login via email, therefore we ask you to please make sure that you check your email account regularly.
Can I get a refund of the program fee if I drop out?
The deadline for paying the base and tuition fees is March 1, 2025. A refund is not possible.
Get in touch -
We're looking forward to hearing from you!
We are happy to answer all questions you might have about the program in general, or regarding its content or organization. Please also contact us if you wish to get in touch with previous participants in order to gain insight into their experiences.
