Sustainable Business Management & Creative Organisation Design

Bachelor of Arts

 

The world is changing: climate change, social inequality and economic crises demand new answers. Companies are faced with the challenge of harmonising economic success with social and ecological responsibility. After all, business is more than just maximising profits - and it can be shaped in a sustainable, creative and future-proof way. A sustainable transformation requires more than just figures and traditional management methods: Sustainable business administration needs creative approaches, interdisciplinary perspectives and the ability to develop new solutions.

This degree programme combines business administration with sustainability management, art and creative methods. After all, companies not only need specialists trained in business administration, but also people who truly rethink economic processes - with innovative strength, artistic openness and a strategic feel for sustainable business models and operating procedures.

That's why we combine our business administration degree programme with sustainability management, transformation topics, artistic methods, philosophy, sociology and ethics: a broad spectrum for excellently trained graduates who want to bring companies into the future.

What makes this degree programme unique is its complexity. For example, we tackle the following questions together with our students from the very first semester:

  • How can business success be combined with responsibility?
  • How can companies become more sustainable and make themselves fit for the future?
  • How can creative methods be used to solve economic, social and ecological challenges?
  • How can art, aesthetics and philosophy help to make companies more sustainable and really make a difference?

Our ‘Sustainable Business Management & Creative Organisation Design’ degree programme provides answers to all these questions. Here, specialised business knowledge, artistic processes and critical reflection intertwine in a meaningful way to create new perspectives for sustainable business.

What's special about it? In our innovative business studies programme, managers and founders from sustainable companies and organisations regularly report on their day-to-day work. They provide first-hand insights into how business management can be organised with purpose, creativity and vision.

Study programme with a practice partner

Sustainability is not simply decided in companies - it is shaped. If you want to promote sustainable management, you need experience in real business contexts. That is why this degree programme combines academic learning directly with practical experience in innovative companies and internationally active organisations.

Attractive partners from business and the non-profit sector offer students the opportunity to become actively involved during their studies. Whether Alnatura, GLOBUS Markthallen Holding, GLS Bank or Fairtrade Deutschland e.V. - the partner companies stand for a modern, sustainable and future-orientated form of business.

Students benefit in several ways thanks to the close integration of theory and practice:

✔ Apply what they have learnt directly in the company
✔ Consolidate study content through real-life experience
✔ Tuition fees can be paid by the partner company
✔ Financial independence - earn money while studying
✔ Gain more than a year of professional experience

Who is this degree programme for?

This degree programme is aimed at anyone who wants to rethink business and actively shape it later in their professional life - and is already looking for an inspiring, practice-oriented learning environment that promotes innovative approaches.

Our Bachelor's degree in ‘Sustainable Business Management & Creative Organisation Design’ is particularly suitable for those who

✔ want to solve economic challenges with unconventional methods and establish / develop new ways of thinking in companies;
✔ see business administration not just as a management discipline, but as a tool for positive change;
✔ want more corporate responsibility for people & planet and do not view economic processes in isolation, but question them in a social and ecological context;
✔ want to help develop sustainable, regenerative business models and operating processes - from CSR strategies to the green economy to the post-growth economy;
✔ want to accompany transformation processes - support companies in their sustainable development;
✔ implement sustainability strategies in practice - ecologically, socially and economically;
✔ not only want to learn theory, but also work practically in projects right from the start;
✔ want to shape the future and understand sustainable corporate management as a success factor and contribute to progress with innovative concepts;

Study ‘Sustainable Business Management & Creative Organisation Design’ at Alanus University now! Bringing sustainability into business, combining business management thinking with creative-artistic methods and designing companies responsibly.

 

Rethink business. Shaping the future. #AlanusBusiness


Note: The Bachelor's degree programme in Sustainable Business Management & Creative Organisation Design integrates the former Bachelor's degree programmes of the Department of Business Administration (Business Administration - Rethinking Business, Sustainable Management and Business, Society, Innovation).

Special features

Sustainable business requires a new way of thinking - now, not tomorrow. That is why this degree programme combines business administration with art, philosophy and social issues. Creative methods and practical art exercises promote perception, innovative strength and social skills - essential for reshaping economic, social and ecological challenges.

The Studium Generale encourages students to view economics in a wider context. Philosophical and cultural content opens up new perspectives and raises awareness of responsible corporate management. After all, if you want to develop sustainable business models, you need to understand economic mechanisms as well as social dynamics.

Sustainability is not just a claim, but the basis of this innovative degree programme - in terms of content, methodology and also in everyday university life. Alanus University has been recognised as a Fairtrade University since 2018 and is committed to climate protection and fair economic structures. Students are actively committed to social and ecological responsibility - whether through Fridays for Future, sustainable projects or close cooperation with companies that take change seriously.

Application & Admission

At Alanus University, business expertise meets creative and sustainable design for the future. In a familiar environment with small year groups, there is room for individual learning and interdisciplinary exchange. As the number of study places is limited, it is advisable to apply early.

Applications are made using the application form. After receipt of the documents, feedback will be given promptly.

The following documents are required for the application (accepted file formats: PDF, JPG, PNG)
✔ Curriculum vitae
✔ Current certificate

The following additional documents are required for enrolment (accepted file formats: PDF, JPG, PNG):

✔ Certified copy of the higher education entrance qualification (general higher education entrance qualification, subject-restricted higher education entrance qualification or entrance qualification for universities of applied sciences)
(Copies of the last two certificates can be submitted before graduation. Officially certified German translations of foreign certificates are required).
✔ Application photo for the student ID card (format: square)
✔ Electronic notification of student health insurance by the statutory health insurance company (can be submitted later)
(In the case of private or foreign health insurance, a digital exemption from the statutory insurance obligation is required).
✔ Proof of German language skills (TestDaF level 4 or equivalent), if applicable

 

Admission requirements

Admission to the degree programme is possible if one of the following requirements is met:

✔ General higher education entrance qualification or subject-restricted higher education entrance qualification
✔ Advanced technical college entrance qualification (or equivalent qualification) in conjunction with an entrance examination at Alanus University
✔ At least two years of commercial vocational training and three years of subsequent employment in the commercial sector
✔ At least two years of vocational training and three years of employment in the non-commercial sector in conjunction with an entrance examination
✔ Advanced vocational training (master craftsman, technician, business administrator)

If the final certificate is not yet available, the application can be made with the last available certificate.

#AlanusBusiness - Shaping a sustainable future.

Apply now and become part of a new generation of business creators!

Information events online and on campus

#AlanusBusiness is people business! Studying means more than just acquiring knowledge - it's about exchange, inspiration and the right environment to develop yourself and realise new ideas. If you would like to experience Alanus University and the degree programme in advance, you are welcome to attend seminars, get to know lecturers and students and ask questions directly.

An overview of our taster days and other events can be found in the events calendar.

Studying with a practice partner

How can business theory and sustainable business practice be optimally combined? By students actively working in companies during their studies. During the lecture-free period, students have the opportunity to gain valuable work experience - practical, future-orientated and directly related to sustainable management.

Similar to a dual study programme, the knowledge acquired is directly applied and further developed. An additional advantage: the programme is free of charge, as the partner company pays the tuition fees.

Alanus University supports students in their search for a suitable company - whether through existing collaborations or by assisting them in approaching new companies that want to play an active role in shaping the sustainable economy.

Contact for companies & students
Lilli Andrade (contact person for strategic partnerships)
02222 93211630 (Wednesday to Friday)
lilli.andrade@alanus.edu

Here you will find a current overview of the practice partner companies.

Shaping the future together - we look forward to exchanging ideas!

Funding

Studying with a practice partner
Studying with a partner company is free of charge.

 

BAföG
The degree programme "Sustainable Business Management & Creative Organisation Design" can be funded by BAföG.

 

Deutschlandstipendium
Alanus University also awards special scholarships like the Deutschlandstipendium.

 

Further funding options
Our financial counselling service can advise you on further scholarships and funding options!

Semester abroad

A semester abroad opens up new perspectives - professionally, culturally and personally. The Bachelor's degree programme ‘Sustainable Business Management & Creative Organisation Design’ is designed in such a way that one semester (e.g. the 3rd semester) can be completed at a partner university abroad. Alanus University cooperates with universities worldwide, including in South America, Scandinavia and Egypt.

Thanks to these co-operations, you can plan your studies financially: there are no additional tuition fees during the semester abroad.

Further information is available from the International Office.

Valuations

 

Voices of graduates

Paula Kühne:
“I like the interdisciplinary programme at Alanus University: you have the opportunity to learn and exchange ideas in other areas beyond your own subject - that's a great enrichment. I particularly like the Studium Generale subjects and the art modules. The degree programme is not only a subject-related learning experience, but also a personal one.”

Joseph Nörling:
“What fascinates me about the Business Administration Bachelor's programme at Alanus University is the combination of business content with philosophy and art. This interdisciplinary approach not only gives you a new perspective on business, but also helps you to mature personally and as a person. I can recommend the degree programme to anyone who wants to discuss economic topics controversially and is interested in a comprehensive education of their personality.”

Florian Spathelf:
“I would recommend studying at Alanus University to anyone who sees a future in business, but not in the conventional, but in the creative, alternative and above all innovative area of a company.”

Kira Meise:
"A composition of business administration basics, art, philosophy and business practice. If you want, you can add a pinch of anthroposophy. Rounded off by the individual, critical and creative fellow students, the result is a wonderful study concept that focuses on education rather than memorisation."

Career prospects

After studying business administration at Alanus University, a wide range of career paths open up - whether in a company, in consulting or in your own start-up. Those who have already gained valuable experience during the practical phases and have proven themselves in the partner company can be taken on directly.

Possible fields of activity range from sustainable management, marketing and social innovation to project and transformation management, finance, HR or sustainable corporate development. A career in the non-profit sector, in social enterprises or in creative industries of the future is also possible.

Many graduates also use the degree programme as a springboard for starting their own business - be it in the field of social entrepreneurship, green economy or innovative business models with social added value.

Those who wish to gain further academic qualifications can continue with a Master's degree at Alanus University or another university in Germany or abroad and specialise further in sustainable, creative and transformative business design.

Special features

Sustainable business requires a new way of thinking - now, not tomorrow. That is why this degree programme combines business administration with art, philosophy and social issues. Creative methods and practical art exercises promote perception, innovative strength and social skills - essential for reshaping economic, social and ecological challenges.

The Studium Generale encourages students to view economics in a wider context. Philosophical and cultural content opens up new perspectives and raises awareness of responsible corporate management. After all, if you want to develop sustainable business models, you need to understand economic mechanisms as well as social dynamics.

Sustainability is not just a claim, but the basis of this innovative degree programme - in terms of content, methodology and also in everyday university life. Alanus University has been recognised as a Fairtrade University since 2018 and is committed to climate protection and fair economic structures. Students are actively committed to social and ecological responsibility - whether through Fridays for Future, sustainable projects or close cooperation with companies that take change seriously.

Application & Admission

At Alanus University, business expertise meets creative and sustainable design for the future. In a familiar environment with small year groups, there is room for individual learning and interdisciplinary exchange. As the number of study places is limited, it is advisable to apply early.

Applications are made using the application form. After receipt of the documents, feedback will be given promptly.

The following documents are required for the application (accepted file formats: PDF, JPG, PNG)
✔ Curriculum vitae
✔ Current certificate

The following additional documents are required for enrolment (accepted file formats: PDF, JPG, PNG):

✔ Certified copy of the higher education entrance qualification (general higher education entrance qualification, subject-restricted higher education entrance qualification or entrance qualification for universities of applied sciences)
(Copies of the last two certificates can be submitted before graduation. Officially certified German translations of foreign certificates are required).
✔ Application photo for the student ID card (format: square)
✔ Electronic notification of student health insurance by the statutory health insurance company (can be submitted later)
(In the case of private or foreign health insurance, a digital exemption from the statutory insurance obligation is required).
✔ Proof of German language skills (TestDaF level 4 or equivalent), if applicable

 

Admission requirements

Admission to the degree programme is possible if one of the following requirements is met:

✔ General higher education entrance qualification or subject-restricted higher education entrance qualification
✔ Advanced technical college entrance qualification (or equivalent qualification) in conjunction with an entrance examination at Alanus University
✔ At least two years of commercial vocational training and three years of subsequent employment in the commercial sector
✔ At least two years of vocational training and three years of employment in the non-commercial sector in conjunction with an entrance examination
✔ Advanced vocational training (master craftsman, technician, business administrator)

If the final certificate is not yet available, the application can be made with the last available certificate.

#AlanusBusiness - Shaping a sustainable future.

Apply now and become part of a new generation of business creators!

Information events online and on campus

#AlanusBusiness is people business! Studying means more than just acquiring knowledge - it's about exchange, inspiration and the right environment to develop yourself and realise new ideas. If you would like to experience Alanus University and the degree programme in advance, you are welcome to attend seminars, get to know lecturers and students and ask questions directly.

An overview of our taster days and other events can be found in the events calendar.

Studying with a practice partner

How can business theory and sustainable business practice be optimally combined? By students actively working in companies during their studies. During the lecture-free period, students have the opportunity to gain valuable work experience - practical, future-orientated and directly related to sustainable management.

Similar to a dual study programme, the knowledge acquired is directly applied and further developed. An additional advantage: the programme is free of charge, as the partner company pays the tuition fees.

Alanus University supports students in their search for a suitable company - whether through existing collaborations or by assisting them in approaching new companies that want to play an active role in shaping the sustainable economy.

Contact for companies & students
Lilli Andrade (contact person for strategic partnerships)
02222 93211630 (Wednesday to Friday)
lilli.andrade@alanus.edu

Here you will find a current overview of the practice partner companies.

Shaping the future together - we look forward to exchanging ideas!

Funding

Studying with a practice partner
Studying with a partner company is free of charge.

 

BAföG
The degree programme "Sustainable Business Management & Creative Organisation Design" can be funded by BAföG.

 

Deutschlandstipendium
Alanus University also awards special scholarships like the Deutschlandstipendium.

 

Further funding options
Our financial counselling service can advise you on further scholarships and funding options!

Semester abroad

A semester abroad opens up new perspectives - professionally, culturally and personally. The Bachelor's degree programme ‘Sustainable Business Management & Creative Organisation Design’ is designed in such a way that one semester (e.g. the 3rd semester) can be completed at a partner university abroad. Alanus University cooperates with universities worldwide, including in South America, Scandinavia and Egypt.

Thanks to these co-operations, you can plan your studies financially: there are no additional tuition fees during the semester abroad.

Further information is available from the International Office.

Valuations

 

Voices of graduates

Paula Kühne:
“I like the interdisciplinary programme at Alanus University: you have the opportunity to learn and exchange ideas in other areas beyond your own subject - that's a great enrichment. I particularly like the Studium Generale subjects and the art modules. The degree programme is not only a subject-related learning experience, but also a personal one.”

Joseph Nörling:
“What fascinates me about the Business Administration Bachelor's programme at Alanus University is the combination of business content with philosophy and art. This interdisciplinary approach not only gives you a new perspective on business, but also helps you to mature personally and as a person. I can recommend the degree programme to anyone who wants to discuss economic topics controversially and is interested in a comprehensive education of their personality.”

Florian Spathelf:
“I would recommend studying at Alanus University to anyone who sees a future in business, but not in the conventional, but in the creative, alternative and above all innovative area of a company.”

Kira Meise:
"A composition of business administration basics, art, philosophy and business practice. If you want, you can add a pinch of anthroposophy. Rounded off by the individual, critical and creative fellow students, the result is a wonderful study concept that focuses on education rather than memorisation."

Career prospects

After studying business administration at Alanus University, a wide range of career paths open up - whether in a company, in consulting or in your own start-up. Those who have already gained valuable experience during the practical phases and have proven themselves in the partner company can be taken on directly.

Possible fields of activity range from sustainable management, marketing and social innovation to project and transformation management, finance, HR or sustainable corporate development. A career in the non-profit sector, in social enterprises or in creative industries of the future is also possible.

Many graduates also use the degree programme as a springboard for starting their own business - be it in the field of social entrepreneurship, green economy or innovative business models with social added value.

Those who wish to gain further academic qualifications can continue with a Master's degree at Alanus University or another university in Germany or abroad and specialise further in sustainable, creative and transformative business design.

Das Wichtigste im Überblick

The most important facts

Degree
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
State-recognised

Duration of study
6 semesters (3 years)

Start of studies
Autumn semester (September)

Tuition fees
For monthly payment: € 490, for semesterly payment: € 2,880.

Application
Apply now!

Contact
Faculty of Business
wirtschaft@alanus.edu
+49 2222 9321-1600
Contact form

Find out more & get advice now!

Information events

Individual counselling

Studenten des Fachbereichs Wirtschaft der Alanus Hochschule am Campus 2
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Studierende des Fachbereichs Wirtschaft der Alanus Hochschule beim Lernen in der Mensa
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Gruppe Studierender des Studiengangs Nachhaltige BWL & Kreative Unternehmensgestaltung der Alanus Hochschule