FAQ

Who is this degree program suitable for?

This program is designed for individuals interested in strategic business development, new business models, and economic change processes. It is particularly well-suited for those who are actively involved in developing businesses and wish to assume specialist or leadership roles in the future.

What is business development?

Business development is about identifying and securing new growth opportunities for companies. When the focus is on growth in the core business (with existing products, markets, and business models), there is some overlap with tasks in the “Sales” department. Business development in the narrower sense focuses on growth through new products, new markets, and new business models.

What is the difference between business development and sales?

Sales focuses primarily on selling existing products and services. Business Development takes a longer-term perspective and identifies new growth opportunities. However, there is significant overlap when it comes to expanding the existing core business.

What does a business developer do?

Business development responsibilities depend on a company’s growth strategy. Generally speaking, there are three distinct roles:

• Market Developer: identifies new customer groups, regions, or distribution channels and works closely with the sales team.
• Pioneer: develops new business areas, products, or business models, analyzes markets, and tests solutions with customers.
• Generalist: bridges existing day-to-day operations with new growth initiatives.

Business developers work in junior, senior, or executive positions, such as Head of Business Development. They may also hold staff positions supporting executive management.

What roles are there in business development?

In practice, three basic types can be distinguished:

• Market Developer: taps into new target groups, regions, or distribution channels.
• Pioneers: develop new products, business areas, and business models.
• Generalists: integrate existing business with new growth initiatives.

What is the goal of the program?

You will learn to analyze economic, technological, and social developments and use them to formulate growth strategies. In the process, you will develop new business opportunities and lay the groundwork for their successful implementation within the company.

What kind of course content can I expect during my studies?

The program combines business development with strategic management, marketing, brand management, organization, leadership, controlling, and finance. Other topics include digitalization, sustainability, and market and customer analysis.

Are there elective options in the program?

Yes, you can choose between two specializations:

• Marketing & Brand Management (BrandLab)
• Organization & Leadership

This allows you to tailor your skill set to your interests and career goals.

Is this degree program suitable for a leadership position?

Yes, the program equips students with strategic, organizational, and interpersonal skills that are essential for leadership roles. Many graduates take on leadership responsibilities, for example, in business development, marketing and sales, HR management, or supply chain management.

What career opportunities does this degree program offer?

Possible positions include junior or senior business developer, head of business development, or staff member in a corporate development department. Roles in strategic management or consulting are also possible.

After I graduate, will I be able to work in other fields as well?

Yes. Thanks to the interdisciplinary curriculum, career paths are also available in marketing and sales, human resources, controlling, supply chain management, project management, and quality management.

Is the program practical?

Yes, case studies, business projects, and real-world assignments are firmly integrated into the program. This allows you to apply the knowledge you’ve gained to specific challenges in the business world.

Is this degree program suitable for working professionals?

Yes, the master's program is designed to be consistently work-friendly. Classes are held primarily in the late afternoon and evening and combine online instruction with in-person sessions that can be easily scheduled.

What is the balance between online and in-person instruction?

Each semester begins with an on-campus orientation week. On Wednesdays and Thursdays, classes are held online from 4:50 p.m. to 8:10 p.m. On Fridays, classes are held from 1:30 p.m. to 8:10 p.m.—twice a month online and twice on campus. There are no classes on the weekends.

How long does the degree program take?

The Master's program in Business Development & Management lasts 4 semesters and is worth 120 ECTS credits. Upon successful completion, you will receive the academic degree "Master of Arts in Business" (MA).

What requirements do I need to meet?

The prerequisite is a relevant bachelor’s or diploma degree—or an equivalent degree—from a recognized institution of higher education. Whether your prior studies meet the requirements will be assessed during the admissions process.

How much does it cost to attend university?

Tuition is €363.36 per semester, plus the ÖH fee.

How do I apply?

Applications are submitted online via the CU Carinthia University of Applied Sciences website. After submitting the required documents, applicants will go through a structured admissions process that includes a personal interview.