How can I study full- or part-time?
The majority of Executive MPA participants take part in the two-year programme. Because the Executive MPA programme is taught in blocks of two to four days each, it is possible to participate in the programme even if the city you work in is in other parts of Germany or abroad.
There are about 43 days of classes in the Executive MPA programme. Students who study while working and follow the programme over two years should estimate more compulsory attendance time in the first year of the programme to have enough time to prepare the master's thesis in the second year. Some of the blocks include Saturdays, which means that employers must grant a total of about 38-40 days of leave over a period of two years.
Enrolled students can also apply for a study break or a prolongation of studies and complete the programme within three or four years. For further questions on the curriculum and flexibility, reach out to empa[at]hertie-school[dot]org.
Are scholarships available for Executive MPA participants?
Yes. The Hertie School offers several full and partial scholarships for exceptionally talented candidates whose profiles add to the quality and diversity of the student body in the Executive MPA. Many students are also delegated and sponsored by their home institutions, which cover all or part of the costs.
For further information visit the funding page for the Executive MPA.
Applicants should check alternative and/or additional sources to finance their studies early. Tax advisors should also be consulted for more information about tax deductions for professional training expenses. In Germany, tuition fees are tax-deductible as professional training expenses.
What language skills and verifications are required?
As the language of instruction at the Hertie School is English, candidates must be fluent in English.
Candidates who are native speakers do not need to submit English proficiency test results. Non-native speakers who can provide proof of substantial work experience or study in English may not have to provide a language test. Short-term study abroad, au-pair home stays or language school certificates will not be accepted as test replacements.
We accept the following tests and scores for the Executive MPA programme:
TOEFL | PBT 577 | CBT 233 | iBT 90
IELTS | Overall score of 7.0
Cambridge ESOL | CPE (A, B, C) | CAE (A, B)
Duolingo | 115
The Hertie School's TOEFL test school code is 8874. Test results may not be more than five years old.
Employees of the German Federal Government can also hand in an English test of the Federal Language Agency.
Candidates can submit their application for the Executive MPA programme even if their language test is not yet available. However, please note that admission cannot be issued without proof of language skills. We therefore advise all applicants to submit their results as early as possible.
Will I need to speak German to be able to study at the Hertie School?
The Executive MPA is an international programme taught entirely in English. Therefore, knowledge of German is not required.
What academic background do I need?
Applicants must have completed a higher education degree in any discipline – typically, Executive MPA students have a background in business/economics, law, social science or natural sciences.
Applicants must provide proof of at least 240 ECTS that have been acquired during previous studies (if no ECTS credits have been earned, a minimum of 3-4 years of previous academic studies are required). The recognition of credit points earned outside of a study programme is incumbent upon the admission committee.
What professional background do I need?
The Executive MPA programme is aimed at professionals with at least three years of professional experience. Most participants have 5-15 years of work experience (the average is 9 years). We welcome applications from all sectors – public administration, the private sector and the non-profit-sector – as well as professionals who are either preparing a change of sector or are on a sabbatical or parental leave.
What are the living costs in Berlin?
Total costs in Berlin are relatively low compared to other global cities. An estimate of minimum living costs is currently around €800-900 per month. This includes costs for housing (€350), health insurance (€80), transport (€70), and other living costs (€300-400). The sum quoted here is a little higher than average to help not underestimate costs.
Will accommodation be provided?
The Hertie School is located in the centre of Berlin and does not have a campus providing student housing. However, the city of Berlin offers ample opportunity for accommodation at relatively reasonable rates. Please see the student services website on housing for more information. Executive MPA participants who travel to Berlin for the courses will be provided with information on short-term accommodation.
Who can I contact for help with moving to Berlin?
Our International Office and Student Life team (studentlife[at]hertie-school[dot]org) will offer support in administrative issues such as visas, residence permits, health insurance, etc.
Is there a Career Services Centre?
Yes. The Hertie School assists its students in finding appropriate job opportunities during their studies and after graduation (a lifelong service). For more information, click here.
What kind of support system will be available to me after my studies?
Executive MPA graduates will become part of the active Hertie School Alumni Network which helps students maintain contact after they graduate. Alumni are regularly invited to events at the Hertie School as well as events organised exclusively for Executive MPA students and alumni. Together with the alumni representatives, the Hertie School organises an annual alumni retreat for the Executive MPA programme. Executive MPA alumni have also been organising regulars' tables ("Stammtische") in different cities during the past years. Furthermore, staying in touch is made easy with an Executive MPA alumni mailing list in addition to access to a private student and alumni group on LinkedIn.
