The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Strategic Marketing Management is a 100% English-taught programme designed for graduates who want to become marketing leaders in an international business environment. The programme develops expertise in strategic marketing, digital marketing, consumer behaviour, market research, branding, public relations, and leadership.

Students gain practical experience through consulting projects, a comprehensive market research project, an integrated international semester, workshops, and a compulsory internship. The curriculum combines academic theory with real-world business applications, preparing graduates for leadership positions in multinational companies and innovative startups.

Key Reasons to Choose this Programme

• 100% English-taught Master's programme
• Master of Arts (M.A.) qualification
• AACSB-accredited business school
• One compulsory integrated semester abroad
• Optional Double Degree with an international partner university
• 12-week compulsory internship
• Practical consulting and market research projects
• Workshops and company excursions
• Access to more than 190 international partner universities
• Fast Track option allowing graduation in 3 semesters (90 ECTS) for eligible students.

Programme Structure / Subjects Offered

The curriculum combines strategic marketing knowledge with practical business applications.

Core Subjects

• Marketing Strategies
• Marketing Planning
• Digital Marketing
• E-Marketing & E-Commerce
• Consumer Behaviour
• Market Research
• Public Relations
• Leadership Skills
• Relationship Marketing
• Communication Management
• Sales Management
• International Marketing
• Brand Management

Practical Components

• Extensive market research project
• Consulting projects
• Company workshops
• Industry excursions
• 12-week compulsory internship
• Integrated semester abroad
• Master's thesis.

Disciplines / Specialisations Offered

Students develop expertise in areas including:

• Strategic Marketing
• Digital Marketing
• Brand Management
• Consumer Behaviour
• Market Research
• Public Relations
• Relationship Marketing
• Sales Management
• Marketing Communications
• Content Marketing
• E-Commerce
• International Marketing.

Programme Highlights

• 100% English-taught Master's programme
• AACSB-accredited business school
• Fast Track completion option in 3 semesters
• One compulsory international semester abroad
• Optional Double Degree with an international partner university
• 12-week compulsory internship
• Practice-oriented market research project
• Workshops, company excursions, and consulting projects
• More than 190 international partner universities
• Strong links with marketing professionals and international employers.

Career Outcomes

Graduates are prepared for leadership roles across international marketing, communications, and brand management, including:

• Brand Manager
• Marketing Manager
• Digital Marketing Manager
• Content Marketing Specialist
• Product Manager
• Market Research Analyst
• Communications Consultant
• Marketing Consultant
• Public Relations Manager
• Customer Relationship Manager
• E-Commerce Manager
• Marketing Strategy Consultant
• Business Development Manager

Visa Requirements

International students from outside the EU/EEA generally require a German National Student Visa.

Typical requirements include:

• Valid passport
• Official ISM admission letter
• Proof of sufficient financial resources (such as a blocked account)
• Valid health insurance
• Academic certificates and transcripts
• Proof of English language proficiency
• Completed visa application forms
• Proof of accommodation (if requested)
• Visa application fee

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• The programme is delivered 100% in English and focuses on strategic marketing, digital marketing, leadership, and international business.
• Students complete the first two semesters at ISM, followed by a compulsory semester abroad at one of ISM's partner universities, before completing a practice-oriented Master's thesis in the final semester.
• A 12-week compulsory internship and an extensive market research project are integral parts of the curriculum.
• The programme offers a Fast Track option (90 ECTS) for eligible students with 210 ECTS from previous studies or those who meet alternative eligibility requirements through professional experience or a Pre-Master pathway.
• Students may pursue an optional Double Degree with selected international partner universities.
• The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect current developments in strategic marketing, digital marketing, e-commerce, consumer behaviour, public relations, branding, sales management, and market research, ensuring graduates are prepared for leadership careers in the global marketing industry.