The Retail and Consumer Management program equips you with the skills to understand consumers, strategically develop brands, and successfully implement innovative business models. The program focuses on current topics such as consumer insights, brand management, digital commerce, customer experience, retail innovation, and data-driven decision-making.
You’ll learn to analyze markets, identify customer needs, and develop strategies for consumer goods, brand, retail, and service companies. The program combines in-depth management knowledge with hands-on projects, real-world business cases, and close collaboration with companies. Through personalized course selections, you can tailor your focus - for example, in the areas of digitalization, consumer analytics, retail innovation, or customer lifecycle management. Those interested in starting their own business will also find excellent support for developing their own business ideas.
The English-language curriculum and the international learning environment specifically prepare you for specialized and leadership roles in globally active companies. The skills you acquire are relevant not only to the consumer goods and retail industries but also to careers in marketing, sales, business development, strategy, and e-commerce.
As a graduate of the Master’s program in Retail and Consumer Management, you will take on specialized and leadership roles at the intersection of management, marketing, digitalization, and consumer business. Potential fields of work include: brand and product management, consumer insights and market intelligence, digital commerce and e-commerce, customer experience management and CRM, marketing and digital strategy, retail and category management, business development and innovation management, management consulting, and entrepreneurship.
Career opportunities are available at national and international brand and consumer goods companies, retail and e-commerce firms, technology companies, consulting firms, agencies, and startups. The degree also qualifies you for positions of responsibility in sales-, customer-, and market-oriented areas across a wide range of industries.
Courses in the Winter semester
This module addresses retail location decisions, internationalization, real estate aspects, and sustainability. Using case studies and role plays, students analyze international expansion and location strategies.
This module introduces retail and consumer management. Topics include customer value creation, branding strategies, KPIs, design thinking, business model canvas, MVP development, and business planning for informed retail decisions.
This module covers fundamentals of European and German law with a focus on commercial, trademark, civil, tax, and data protection law. Students gain an understanding of legal frameworks relevant to retail decision-making.
This module teaches strategic management concepts in retail. Topics include competitive analysis, innovation strategies, blue ocean thinking, and fundamentals of mergers and acquisitions using international case studies.
Students learn how to plan and implement digital marketing strategies. Topics include integrated online and offline communication, KPIs, campaign optimization, and best practices for data-driven retail marketing.
The course covers new technologies, innovations, and disruptive business models in retail. Students learn about new digital business models and non‑traditional competitors, analyze disruptive and non‑disruptive models, identify ideas, and develop strategies to enhance the customer experience.
The elective modules cover key subject areas of modern retail and consumer management. These include digital commerce and business models, marketing and branding, consumer behavior and market research, data and performance analytics, supply chain and operations, legal and governance issues, sustainability, as well as strategic management and innovation. As part of the “Retail and Consumer Management” master’s program, students must complete one elective.
Courses in the Summer semester
This module focuses on qualitative and quantitative market research and consumer behavior. Students learn research design, online and offline methods, data analysis (e.g. SPSS), and customer journey analysis in retail contexts.
This module covers digital commerce business models. Topics include e-commerce systems, customer experience, web analytics, conversion optimization, AI in retail, and digital touchpoints along the customer journey.
This module focuses on retail branding and brand management. Students learn how to create strong retail brands through physical and digital touchpoints, store atmosphere, assortment, pricing, and promotion.
This module focuses on planning and managing retail supply chains. Topics include network design, warehousing, transportation, omnichannel logistics, and operational retail processes.
This module focuses on sales processes and customer lifecycle management. Topics include sales management, CRM, service management, and the use of big data to predict customer value and behavior.
This module explores new technologies, innovations, and disruptive retail business models. Students analyze digital and non-digital retail concepts, develop strategies, and apply project management methods in practical, international projects.
The elective modules cover key subject areas of modern retail and consumer management. These include digital commerce and business models, marketing and branding, consumer behavior and market research, data and performance analytics, supply chain and operations, legal and governance issues, sustainability, as well as strategic management and innovation. As part of the “Retail and Consumer Management” master’s program, students must complete a total of one required elective course.
Winter or summer semester
The master’s thesis deepens a self-selected topic in retail or consumer research. Students are supported in topic selection, methodology, academic writing, and presentation of research results.
| 1. Semester | |
|---|---|
| 2. Semester | |
| 3. Semester |
The Master’s in Retail and Consumer Management spans three semesters and combines in-depth management knowledge with practical insights into the international world of consumer goods, brands, and retail.
In the first two semesters, you’ll explore consumer insights, market and consumer research, retail management, innovative business models, and responsible corporate governance. In a practice-oriented Retail and Consumer Project, you’ll apply your knowledge to real-world business challenges.
In the third semester, you will delve deeper into a topic of your choice as part of your master’s thesis and complete your degree with the academic title Master of Arts (M.A.).
You can find more information about the modules in the curriculum and the module handbook.
Note: The study plan shown applies to students beginning their studies in the winter semester.
The degree program is accredited by Stiftung Akkreditierungsrat (ELIAS).
Evidence of the following qualifications has to be provided for admission to the master’s degree course in Retail and Consumer Management (RCM):
It is possible to apply with less than 210 ECTS; however, proof of compensation of the missing 30 ECTS has to be provided no later than the end of the application period by means of:
NOTE: Please note that where documents are submitted to show evidence of practical professional experience or either practical or theoretical achievements worth 30 ECTS – in addition to a bachelor’s degree – the documents must clearly indicate that the 30 ECTS were obtain over and above the bachelor's degree programme. Confirmation can be provided by the university showing that the ECTS/internship were not counted towards the first degree. The duration of the practical professional experience gained outside the first degree should be equivalent to 20 weeks of full-time work. Furthermore, the internship reference must be submitted in officially certified form together with the other application documents. In both cases, we recommend to submit meaningful documents from which the Examination Committee can clearly understand the substantive aspects immediately.
International Retail Management, Strategic Marketing and Innovation Management
Retail Management, Retail Marketing and Retail Controlling
Business IT and Digital Commerce
Artificial Intelligence in Consumer Commerce
Retail Marketing, Human Resources and Organisational Management
Supply Chain Management and Operations
Intercultural Competencies
Marketing, University of Illinois, USA
Entrepreneurship, SENAC, Brasil
Marketing, The American University in Cairo
Letters of admission can be expected at the beginning of February or the beginning of August at the earliest.
Lectures can take place on any day from Monday to Saturday. The times vary from semester to semester. Lectures by international lecturers usually take place as block courses.
Lectures for the Retail and Consumer Management degree program take place exclusively on the Ingolstadt campus. Please take this into account when looking for accommodation.
It is possible to work during the semester. However, lecture times vary from semester to semester and sometimes also take place on Saturdays. You should therefore allow yourself enough flexibility with your employer. Please also bear in mind the high study workload during your studies.
The language certificate must be submitted for full enrollment, i.e. by 12.04. (if applying for the summer semester) or by 29.10. (if applying for the winter semester) at the latest.
The aptitude test consists of uploading further documents within the application portal; there is no physical test/interview or similar. These documents are:
There is currently no cooperation for a double degree for the Retail and Consumer Management course.
Here is an overview of the accepted language tests: Link
One admission requirement is proof of a successful completion of a degree programme at a German university with at least 210 ECTS credit points or an equivalent scope of study in the field of economics, commercial sciences or similar areas or an equivalent German or foreign degree. Whether you meet the eligibility requirements for the desired degree program can only be checked during the application process on the basis of the documents you submit. Unfortunately, it is therefore not possible to say in advance whether or not you meet the requirements for a degree course with your previous education. Admission and application) or in the Study and Examination Regulations (SPO Statutes, § 3 Qualification requirements): Link
Only your Bachelor's degree can be considered to fulfill the qualification requirements for a Master's degree program at THI. Your Master's degree is not relevant.
Previous studies in English are enough. Please upload appropriate proof in the application portal showing that the language of instruction for all lectures and examinations was English. You can find an overview of accepted language certificates here: Link
The lectures are held entirely in English, which is why you must have at least B2 level proficiency in the language. The language certificate for this must be submitted for enrollment, i.e. by 12.04. at the latest (for applications for the summer semester) or by 29.10. (for applications for the winter semester). Here you will find an overview of the accepted language certificates: Link
It is possible to arrive late, but you must still enrol on time (no later than four weeks after the start of the semester). You are responsible for catching up on missed lectures. However, we would like to expressly point out that your obligations associated with your studies remain unaffected by this. This applies in particular to examination deadlines, which are not interrupted by this. Please inform your degree program director (via Moodle) as soon as you know your arrival date.
If you arrive late and can prove that you applied for a visa in time, you may request for an extension of the exam deadlines by the amount of time missed. You can only submit this request once you are here in Germany in person. You can take missed modules (and exams) later together with students of the following year. Your duration of study will be extended as a result.
The application for grace period can be found in the PRIMUSS portal under “Applications and Messages > Select application/form > Others > General Application”.
The application form is empty, i.e. students can explain in detail why they need an extension and the reasons for it. The request and the corresponding supporting documents (confirmation of receipt/application letter from the visa office/embassy and presentation of the visa in the travel application - copy of identity card with arrival stamp in Germany) should be submitted immediately after entry, ideally together with the change of address (change of address from abroad to German address) on the student's portal.
For questions about enrollment, please contact us via the contact form: Link
You can find the link to the timetable by clicking on Timetable at the top of the THI website under Quicklinks. Log in with the user data you received when you enrolled.
If you are an applicant and are interested in a sample timetable from previous semesters, please write to a contact person for the degree program. We will be happy to help you.
Once you have successfully enrolled, you will find your certificate of enrolment in the Primuss Studierenden Portal under "My studies -> Certificates".
Ingolstadt University of Applied Sciences is an on-campus university. Lectures are held in person on campus. Only individual lectures may take place online.
It is not possible to postpone admission to another semester. If you are unable to take up your place, please apply again in the next application period.
Please contact the Admissions Office via the contact form and ask whether the application for enrollment can still be submitted: Link
Please refer to the general FAQs on applying for a master degree and, if applicable, the FAQs on applying for a Master's degree from abroad before contacting us.
Do you have any questions about applications, admission, enrolment, student finance, accommodation or other general topics? If so, please use our contact form and select the relevant topic. This will ensure your enquiry is sent directly to the relevant contact person(s) and can be answered quickly and effectively.
Degree program director Retail and Consumer Management
Project Manager
![[Translate to English:]](/fileadmin/_processed_/image-enhancer/52120/MVM_Header-06.JPG-2400x1600-crop-default-2-243-2971-1671.webp "[Translate to English:]")
Master of Arts (M. A.)
At the core of Marketing, Sales and Media are strategic marketing, brand management, media and sales. The curriculum connects consumer behaviour, digital channels and communication planning. Its specialist profile is shaped by market-oriented management combining creativity with data analysis. The programme combines rigorous analysis with application-oriented subject knowledge.
About the degree program
Master of Science (M. Sc.)
The Master's programme in Digital Procurement and Sustainable Supply Chain Management is a Master of Science in Purchasing to offer you a specialisation in innovation management, cost engineering & value engineering, procurement processes and negotiation techniques, digitalisation, supply chain management and sustainable supplier management in an international environment. Logistics and procurement are at the start of global supply chains.
About the degree program
Master of Science (M. Sc.)
Key areas in Entrepreneurship and Corporate Venturing include entrepreneurship, business model innovation, financing and growth strategy. The programme brings together corporate venturing, market validation and innovation ecosystems. A distinctive feature is new venture creation both within start-ups and established companies.
About the degree program
Master of Arts (M. A.)
The Master’s programme in Business Management at THI Business School is designed for graduates of business-related Bachelor’s degrees who want to advance their management expertise and prepare for leadership responsibilities. The flexible four-semester part-time format reduces weekly class commitments, creating valuable opportunities for internships, working student roles, or professional projects alongside study.
About the degree programThe Retail and Consumer Management program equips you with the skills to understand consumers, strategically develop brands, and successfully implement innovative business models. The program focuses on current topics such as consumer insights, brand management, digital commerce, customer experience, retail innovation, and data-driven decision-making.
You’ll learn to analyze markets, identify customer needs, and develop strategies for consumer goods, brand, retail, and service companies. The program combines in-depth management knowledge with hands-on projects, real-world business cases, and close collaboration with companies. Through personalized course selections, you can tailor your focus - for example, in the areas of digitalization, consumer analytics, retail innovation, or customer lifecycle management. Those interested in starting their own business will also find excellent support for developing their own business ideas.
The English-language curriculum and the international learning environment specifically prepare you for specialized and leadership roles in globally active companies. The skills you acquire are relevant not only to the consumer goods and retail industries but also to careers in marketing, sales, business development, strategy, and e-commerce.
As a graduate of the Master’s program in Retail and Consumer Management, you will take on specialized and leadership roles at the intersection of management, marketing, digitalization, and consumer business. Potential fields of work include: brand and product management, consumer insights and market intelligence, digital commerce and e-commerce, customer experience management and CRM, marketing and digital strategy, retail and category management, business development and innovation management, management consulting, and entrepreneurship.
Career opportunities are available at national and international brand and consumer goods companies, retail and e-commerce firms, technology companies, consulting firms, agencies, and startups. The degree also qualifies you for positions of responsibility in sales-, customer-, and market-oriented areas across a wide range of industries.
Courses in the Winter semester
This module addresses retail location decisions, internationalization, real estate aspects, and sustainability. Using case studies and role plays, students analyze international expansion and location strategies.
This module introduces retail and consumer management. Topics include customer value creation, branding strategies, KPIs, design thinking, business model canvas, MVP development, and business planning for informed retail decisions.
This module covers fundamentals of European and German law with a focus on commercial, trademark, civil, tax, and data protection law. Students gain an understanding of legal frameworks relevant to retail decision-making.
This module teaches strategic management concepts in retail. Topics include competitive analysis, innovation strategies, blue ocean thinking, and fundamentals of mergers and acquisitions using international case studies.
Students learn how to plan and implement digital marketing strategies. Topics include integrated online and offline communication, KPIs, campaign optimization, and best practices for data-driven retail marketing.
The course covers new technologies, innovations, and disruptive business models in retail. Students learn about new digital business models and non‑traditional competitors, analyze disruptive and non‑disruptive models, identify ideas, and develop strategies to enhance the customer experience.
The elective modules cover key subject areas of modern retail and consumer management. These include digital commerce and business models, marketing and branding, consumer behavior and market research, data and performance analytics, supply chain and operations, legal and governance issues, sustainability, as well as strategic management and innovation. As part of the “Retail and Consumer Management” master’s program, students must complete one elective.
Courses in the Summer semester
This module focuses on qualitative and quantitative market research and consumer behavior. Students learn research design, online and offline methods, data analysis (e.g. SPSS), and customer journey analysis in retail contexts.
This module covers digital commerce business models. Topics include e-commerce systems, customer experience, web analytics, conversion optimization, AI in retail, and digital touchpoints along the customer journey.
This module focuses on retail branding and brand management. Students learn how to create strong retail brands through physical and digital touchpoints, store atmosphere, assortment, pricing, and promotion.
This module focuses on planning and managing retail supply chains. Topics include network design, warehousing, transportation, omnichannel logistics, and operational retail processes.
This module focuses on sales processes and customer lifecycle management. Topics include sales management, CRM, service management, and the use of big data to predict customer value and behavior.
This module explores new technologies, innovations, and disruptive retail business models. Students analyze digital and non-digital retail concepts, develop strategies, and apply project management methods in practical, international projects.
The elective modules cover key subject areas of modern retail and consumer management. These include digital commerce and business models, marketing and branding, consumer behavior and market research, data and performance analytics, supply chain and operations, legal and governance issues, sustainability, as well as strategic management and innovation. As part of the “Retail and Consumer Management” master’s program, students must complete a total of one required elective course.
Winter or summer semester
The master’s thesis deepens a self-selected topic in retail or consumer research. Students are supported in topic selection, methodology, academic writing, and presentation of research results.
| 1. Semester | |
|---|---|
| 2. Semester | |
| 3. Semester |
The Master’s in Retail and Consumer Management spans three semesters and combines in-depth management knowledge with practical insights into the international world of consumer goods, brands, and retail.
In the first two semesters, you’ll explore consumer insights, market and consumer research, retail management, innovative business models, and responsible corporate governance. In a practice-oriented Retail and Consumer Project, you’ll apply your knowledge to real-world business challenges.
In the third semester, you will delve deeper into a topic of your choice as part of your master’s thesis and complete your degree with the academic title Master of Arts (M.A.).
You can find more information about the modules in the curriculum and the module handbook.
Note: The study plan shown applies to students beginning their studies in the winter semester.
The degree program is accredited by Stiftung Akkreditierungsrat (ELIAS).
Evidence of the following qualifications has to be provided for admission to the master’s degree course in Retail and Consumer Management (RCM):
It is possible to apply with less than 210 ECTS; however, proof of compensation of the missing 30 ECTS has to be provided no later than the end of the application period by means of:
NOTE: Please note that where documents are submitted to show evidence of practical professional experience or either practical or theoretical achievements worth 30 ECTS – in addition to a bachelor’s degree – the documents must clearly indicate that the 30 ECTS were obtain over and above the bachelor's degree programme. Confirmation can be provided by the university showing that the ECTS/internship were not counted towards the first degree. The duration of the practical professional experience gained outside the first degree should be equivalent to 20 weeks of full-time work. Furthermore, the internship reference must be submitted in officially certified form together with the other application documents. In both cases, we recommend to submit meaningful documents from which the Examination Committee can clearly understand the substantive aspects immediately.
International Retail Management, Strategic Marketing and Innovation Management
Retail Management, Retail Marketing and Retail Controlling
Business IT and Digital Commerce
Artificial Intelligence in Consumer Commerce
Retail Marketing, Human Resources and Organisational Management
Supply Chain Management and Operations
Intercultural Competencies
Marketing, University of Illinois, USA
Entrepreneurship, SENAC, Brasil
Marketing, The American University in Cairo
Letters of admission can be expected at the beginning of February or the beginning of August at the earliest.
Lectures can take place on any day from Monday to Saturday. The times vary from semester to semester. Lectures by international lecturers usually take place as block courses.
Lectures for the Retail and Consumer Management degree program take place exclusively on the Ingolstadt campus. Please take this into account when looking for accommodation.
It is possible to work during the semester. However, lecture times vary from semester to semester and sometimes also take place on Saturdays. You should therefore allow yourself enough flexibility with your employer. Please also bear in mind the high study workload during your studies.
The language certificate must be submitted for full enrollment, i.e. by 12.04. (if applying for the summer semester) or by 29.10. (if applying for the winter semester) at the latest.
The aptitude test consists of uploading further documents within the application portal; there is no physical test/interview or similar. These documents are:
There is currently no cooperation for a double degree for the Retail and Consumer Management course.
Here is an overview of the accepted language tests: Link
One admission requirement is proof of a successful completion of a degree programme at a German university with at least 210 ECTS credit points or an equivalent scope of study in the field of economics, commercial sciences or similar areas or an equivalent German or foreign degree. Whether you meet the eligibility requirements for the desired degree program can only be checked during the application process on the basis of the documents you submit. Unfortunately, it is therefore not possible to say in advance whether or not you meet the requirements for a degree course with your previous education. Admission and application) or in the Study and Examination Regulations (SPO Statutes, § 3 Qualification requirements): Link
Only your Bachelor's degree can be considered to fulfill the qualification requirements for a Master's degree program at THI. Your Master's degree is not relevant.
Previous studies in English are enough. Please upload appropriate proof in the application portal showing that the language of instruction for all lectures and examinations was English. You can find an overview of accepted language certificates here: Link
The lectures are held entirely in English, which is why you must have at least B2 level proficiency in the language. The language certificate for this must be submitted for enrollment, i.e. by 12.04. at the latest (for applications for the summer semester) or by 29.10. (for applications for the winter semester). Here you will find an overview of the accepted language certificates: Link
It is possible to arrive late, but you must still enrol on time (no later than four weeks after the start of the semester). You are responsible for catching up on missed lectures. However, we would like to expressly point out that your obligations associated with your studies remain unaffected by this. This applies in particular to examination deadlines, which are not interrupted by this. Please inform your degree program director (via Moodle) as soon as you know your arrival date.
If you arrive late and can prove that you applied for a visa in time, you may request for an extension of the exam deadlines by the amount of time missed. You can only submit this request once you are here in Germany in person. You can take missed modules (and exams) later together with students of the following year. Your duration of study will be extended as a result.
The application for grace period can be found in the PRIMUSS portal under “Applications and Messages > Select application/form > Others > General Application”.
The application form is empty, i.e. students can explain in detail why they need an extension and the reasons for it. The request and the corresponding supporting documents (confirmation of receipt/application letter from the visa office/embassy and presentation of the visa in the travel application - copy of identity card with arrival stamp in Germany) should be submitted immediately after entry, ideally together with the change of address (change of address from abroad to German address) on the student's portal.
For questions about enrollment, please contact us via the contact form: Link
You can find the link to the timetable by clicking on Timetable at the top of the THI website under Quicklinks. Log in with the user data you received when you enrolled.
If you are an applicant and are interested in a sample timetable from previous semesters, please write to a contact person for the degree program. We will be happy to help you.
Once you have successfully enrolled, you will find your certificate of enrolment in the Primuss Studierenden Portal under "My studies -> Certificates".
Ingolstadt University of Applied Sciences is an on-campus university. Lectures are held in person on campus. Only individual lectures may take place online.
It is not possible to postpone admission to another semester. If you are unable to take up your place, please apply again in the next application period.
Please contact the Admissions Office via the contact form and ask whether the application for enrollment can still be submitted: Link
Please refer to the general FAQs on applying for a master degree and, if applicable, the FAQs on applying for a Master's degree from abroad before contacting us.
Do you have any questions about applications, admission, enrolment, student finance, accommodation or other general topics? If so, please use our contact form and select the relevant topic. This will ensure your enquiry is sent directly to the relevant contact person(s) and can be answered quickly and effectively.
Degree program director Retail and Consumer Management
Project Manager
Master of Arts (M. A.)
At the core of Marketing, Sales and Media are strategic marketing, brand management, media and sales. The curriculum connects consumer behaviour, digital channels and communication planning. Its specialist profile is shaped by market-oriented management combining creativity with data analysis. The programme combines rigorous analysis with application-oriented subject knowledge.
About the degree program
Master of Science (M. Sc.)
The Master's programme in Digital Procurement and Sustainable Supply Chain Management is a Master of Science in Purchasing to offer you a specialisation in innovation management, cost engineering & value engineering, procurement processes and negotiation techniques, digitalisation, supply chain management and sustainable supplier management in an international environment. Logistics and procurement are at the start of global supply chains.
About the degree program
Master of Science (M. Sc.)
Key areas in Entrepreneurship and Corporate Venturing include entrepreneurship, business model innovation, financing and growth strategy. The programme brings together corporate venturing, market validation and innovation ecosystems. A distinctive feature is new venture creation both within start-ups and established companies.
About the degree program
Master of Arts (M. A.)
The Master’s programme in Business Management at THI Business School is designed for graduates of business-related Bachelor’s degrees who want to advance their management expertise and prepare for leadership responsibilities. The flexible four-semester part-time format reduces weekly class commitments, creating valuable opportunities for internships, working student roles, or professional projects alongside study.
About the degree program