SME-Management & Entrepreneurship

Course titleSWSECTSTYPE

Accounting & Financial Reporting in SMEs

Semester 1
Academic year 1
Course code KMBB1BBKIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 4
ECTS Credits 4
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students have gained a basic understanding of account-ing and financial reporting, i.e. the reasons for accounting and financial reporting (legal requirements) and their structure, as well as the relationship between accounting and financial reporting. They know about standard ongoing business transactions and how to record them and are familiar with the most relevant items on financial reports, as well as profit and loss statements according to Austrian commercial law with a particular focus on SME scenarios.

Superior module:

Corporate Accounting & Business Mathematics

Module description:

Upon completing this module students possess detailed knowledge of the principles of corporate accounting and understand its application in SMEs. This includes operational accounting (financial accounting and corporate bookkeeping), as well as costs and performance accounting. The module provides a basic overview of the relationships of the individual aspects of corporate accounting and illustrates how to record corporate goods and financial transactions. In addition to general accounting standards, students are familiarized with the legal requirements for financial reporting. Students make informed decisions when recognizing and measuring matters of current and fixed assets, as well as equity and debt capital, and can draw up a profit and loss statement in compliance with balance sheet policies. Examples and case studies are used to highlight aspects particular to SMEs. After completing this module, students are aware of prevailing cost and performance accounting systems and how to apply these in SMEs. They know how to use cost and performance accounting to make informed decisions and to select the most indicated method to deal with to the case at hand. Students study the basic principles of business mathematics. The know the most rele-vant concepts and how to use them to solve problems in business sciences. In this module, students acquire a quantitative toolbox to be used in subsequent modules of the degree program.

Business Mathematics

Semester 1
Academic year 1
Course code KMBB1WMKIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 2
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students are familiar with the principles of business mathematics. They are able to consider problems of business science analytically and work out a suitable problem-solving approach. They are prepared to use mathematical models and quantitative methods in subsequent modules of the degree program.

Superior module:

Corporate Accounting & Business Mathematics

Module description:

Upon completing this module students possess detailed knowledge of the principles of corporate accounting and understand its application in SMEs. This includes operational accounting (financial accounting and corporate bookkeeping), as well as costs and performance accounting. The module provides a basic overview of the relationships of the individual aspects of corporate accounting and illustrates how to record corporate goods and financial transactions. In addition to general accounting standards, students are familiarized with the legal requirements for financial reporting. Students make informed decisions when recognizing and measuring matters of current and fixed assets, as well as equity and debt capital, and can draw up a profit and loss statement in compliance with balance sheet policies. Examples and case studies are used to highlight aspects particular to SMEs. After completing this module, students are aware of prevailing cost and performance accounting systems and how to apply these in SMEs. They know how to use cost and performance accounting to make informed decisions and to select the most indicated method to deal with to the case at hand. Students study the basic principles of business mathematics. The know the most rele-vant concepts and how to use them to solve problems in business sciences. In this module, students acquire a quantitative toolbox to be used in subsequent modules of the degree program.

Cost & Performance Accounting in SMEs

Semester 1
Academic year 1
Course code KMBB1KLKIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 3
ECTS Credits 4
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students are familiar with the most relevant cost and performance accounting systems. They know how to use these in the context of SMEs and to make informed decisions.

Superior module:

Corporate Accounting & Business Mathematics

Module description:

Upon completing this module students possess detailed knowledge of the principles of corporate accounting and understand its application in SMEs. This includes operational accounting (financial accounting and corporate bookkeeping), as well as costs and performance accounting. The module provides a basic overview of the relationships of the individual aspects of corporate accounting and illustrates how to record corporate goods and financial transactions. In addition to general accounting standards, students are familiarized with the legal requirements for financial reporting. Students make informed decisions when recognizing and measuring matters of current and fixed assets, as well as equity and debt capital, and can draw up a profit and loss statement in compliance with balance sheet policies. Examples and case studies are used to highlight aspects particular to SMEs. After completing this module, students are aware of prevailing cost and performance accounting systems and how to apply these in SMEs. They know how to use cost and performance accounting to make informed decisions and to select the most indicated method to deal with to the case at hand. Students study the basic principles of business mathematics. The know the most rele-vant concepts and how to use them to solve problems in business sciences. In this module, students acquire a quantitative toolbox to be used in subsequent modules of the degree program.

Family Firms - Strategy & Sustainability

Semester 1
Academic year 1
Course code KMBB1FSNIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 3
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students know how to apply and critically reflect on the 3-circle model by Tagiuri & Davis (1996). They understand the implications of the multiple-roles dilemma (father/son/co-worker etc.), why SMEs plan ahead for generations to come, as well as why they think along the principles of costs-benefits-strengths-weaknesses of SWOT models. The overarching principle of sustainability can be channeled for the development of new products and strategies. Students comprehend the basic terms, concepts and models of the strategic management of family firms: they can explain the strategic fit between a family firm¿s resources and their socio-economic environments and anticipate the moves of other agents. They understand the tools to assess opportunities and risks of strategic decisions for generic strategic advantages. After completing this course, students know how to apply these tools to optimize the potential of human resources and internal decision structures.

Superior module:

SME Management

Module description:

Upon completion of the course, students understand that in order to manage SMEs successfully and sustainably it is necessary to professionalize internal aspects and open up towards the exterior while appreciating the opportunities and limitations of management activities specific to SMEs. They know that professionalizing the company's operations and building competence (e.g., in the value chain, innovation, distribution and marketing) facilitates success. Students acquire a deep understanding of the structures, processes and areas of activity in SMEs including their different types such as family firms, sole traders and startups. They are able to derive implications for business practice and consider alternative steps, and focus fields. After completing this course, students understand how to assess the opportunities and risks of SMEs not only case-by-case but systematically in the context of the applicable cases, scenarios and individual circumstances.

Microeconomics & Behavioral Economics

Semester 1
Academic year 1
Course code KMBB1MVÖIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 4
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students understand micro and behavior-economic deci-sion theories, which explain how to make prudent and successful decisions in an application-oriented and normative way. Moreover, they develop a balanced ability to analyze strategic interdependencies of SMEs, as well as to practically gauge potential decisions. They use these insights from decision-making theory to interpret market-economic allocations. They understand potential welfare losses due to failing markets or interventions on economic-political grounds and are able to reason the implications and surplus transfer of innovation, productivity gains and induced changes in market structure.

Superior module:

SMEs & their Environment

Module description:

Upon completing this module, students understand that the particularities of SMEs show specifically when these interact with their respective environments; not least due to the currently postulated entrepreneurial responsibility, the socio-economic reasons that motivate their specific value orientation are of increased relevance. This module explains how to analyze the seemingly conflicting interests of profit orientation and liabilities (towards employees, communities and families). Thus, students reflect on the socio-economic positioning of SMEs that cannot solely be considered from an economic perspective: as major competency building, students learn that values and traditions determine entrepreneurial activities. They know that to fully understand an SME, all these factors need to considered and reflected upon. In this module, students learn to apply the analytical concepts, tools and theories which allow them to design the manifold economic and strategic interlaces of SMEs. Using the above, SMEs are able to anticipate reactions to their own actions using the principles of game theory. Economic developments with their macro and regio-economic implications, accordingly, do not merely trigger a passive reaction but can be anticipated and addressed. Such equipped, students are able to analyze the strategic interdependence of economic agents. Students acquire an understanding of micro and behavior-economic decision theories that show how to act prudently and successfully in an application-oriented and normative way. Drawing on these action-theoretical insights, they comprehend how markets work, which processes these entail and how market structures change. In particular when facing internationalization decisions, students recognize potential market entry barriers and options. In terms of SME realities - success and failure of entrepreneurial decisions - the narrative plays a key role. Students understand how to gauge the semiotics of these SME realities and draw valid conclusions.

SME Company Law

Semester 1
Academic year 1
Course code KMBB1KURIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 2
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing the course, students have acquired a thorough understanding of Austrian private and public business law. They possess basic knowledge of business and commercial law, in particular regarding common corporate forms such as partnerships and other prevailing legal entities (GmbH, AG) and have worked with the relevant Austrian legal codes (the UGB, GmbHG and AktG). Students are able to recognize potential issues related to decision making, representation and liability aspects of businesses and are perceptive for practical problems relating to cartel law. Students are familiar with the stipulations of the Austrian trade law and understand the principles of commercial tendering and subsidy laws.

Superior module:

SME Management

Module description:

Upon completion of the course, students understand that in order to manage SMEs successfully and sustainably it is necessary to professionalize internal aspects and open up towards the exterior while appreciating the opportunities and limitations of management activities specific to SMEs. They know that professionalizing the company's operations and building competence (e.g., in the value chain, innovation, distribution and marketing) facilitates success. Students acquire a deep understanding of the structures, processes and areas of activity in SMEs including their different types such as family firms, sole traders and startups. They are able to derive implications for business practice and consider alternative steps, and focus fields. After completing this course, students understand how to assess the opportunities and risks of SMEs not only case-by-case but systematically in the context of the applicable cases, scenarios and individual circumstances.

SME Value Chains

Semester 1
Academic year 1
Course code KMBB1KMWKIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 3
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing the course, students comprehend the structure and efficiency factors of an optimized value chain. They understand the principles of network and supply chain dynamics and know several methods to map supply chains. In particular, they have acquired the ability to adapt such models to the specifics of SMEs and understand the opportunities to reduce costs along the individual processes of the value chain.

Superior module:

SME Management

Module description:

Upon completion of the course, students understand that in order to manage SMEs successfully and sustainably it is necessary to professionalize internal aspects and open up towards the exterior while appreciating the opportunities and limitations of management activities specific to SMEs. They know that professionalizing the company's operations and building competence (e.g., in the value chain, innovation, distribution and marketing) facilitates success. Students acquire a deep understanding of the structures, processes and areas of activity in SMEs including their different types such as family firms, sole traders and startups. They are able to derive implications for business practice and consider alternative steps, and focus fields. After completing this course, students understand how to assess the opportunities and risks of SMEs not only case-by-case but systematically in the context of the applicable cases, scenarios and individual circumstances.

SMEs & Entrepreneurship

Semester 1
Academic year 1
Course code KMBB1KMUIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 2
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course students have acquired a deep understanding of the concepts of entrepreneurship and intrapreneurship. They are aware of the key importance of entrepreneurial thinking and acting to enable commercial success in small and medium-sized contexts, especially in contrast to the frequently observed "muddling through". Students understand the relevance of proactive, entrepreneurial behavior to develop new, innovative products and organizational solutions, as well as for opening up new procurement and distribution markets, but also to pursue technology-based start-up ideas or company succession. They recognize resistance, that oppose entrepreneurial thinking and action within and outside the venture and understand how to promote the latter. Students can apply the learning outcomes of this course in the subsequent modules Innovation Lab 1 to 3.

Superior module:

Entrepreneurial Behavior 1

Module description:

Upon completing this module, students comprehend the concept of entrepreneurship. They are familiar with the various perspectives of entrepreneurial behavior, that of the entrepreneur, the venture and the whole economy. Moreover, they understand the relevance of intrapreneurship, i.e. the entrepreneurial, innovative behavior of employees to achieve economic success. They know how to balance the approaches of leading and letting go (succession planning). They understand the importance of proactive, entrepreneurial action as opposed to the frequently observed "muddling through". Students are aware of the influence of the economic narrative on entrepreneurial behavior and the deriving changes. They understand the relevance of the narrator (homo narrans) and their ability to interpret economic success or failure to facilitate behavior changes that impact the business.

SMEs & Internationalization

Semester 1
Academic year 1
Course code KMBB1KUIIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 2
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course students know the various internationalization strategies and can assess them in an application-oriented way. They are, in particular, familiar with specific market entry barriers, existing market structures and human factors; i.e. when drawing up contracts they understand to consider transaction costs ex ante as well as ex post as a decisive factor.

Superior module:

SMEs & their Environment

Module description:

Upon completing this module, students understand that the particularities of SMEs show specifically when these interact with their respective environments; not least due to the currently postulated entrepreneurial responsibility, the socio-economic reasons that motivate their specific value orientation are of increased relevance. This module explains how to analyze the seemingly conflicting interests of profit orientation and liabilities (towards employees, communities and families). Thus, students reflect on the socio-economic positioning of SMEs that cannot solely be considered from an economic perspective: as major competency building, students learn that values and traditions determine entrepreneurial activities. They know that to fully understand an SME, all these factors need to considered and reflected upon. In this module, students learn to apply the analytical concepts, tools and theories which allow them to design the manifold economic and strategic interlaces of SMEs. Using the above, SMEs are able to anticipate reactions to their own actions using the principles of game theory. Economic developments with their macro and regio-economic implications, accordingly, do not merely trigger a passive reaction but can be anticipated and addressed. Such equipped, students are able to analyze the strategic interdependence of economic agents. Students acquire an understanding of micro and behavior-economic decision theories that show how to act prudently and successfully in an application-oriented and normative way. Drawing on these action-theoretical insights, they comprehend how markets work, which processes these entail and how market structures change. In particular when facing internationalization decisions, students recognize potential market entry barriers and options. In terms of SME realities - success and failure of entrepreneurial decisions - the narrative plays a key role. Students understand how to gauge the semiotics of these SME realities and draw valid conclusions.

SMEs - Innovation & Stories

Semester 1
Academic year 1
Course code KMBB1KISIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 3
ECTS Credits 4
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students recognize the impact of the economic narrative on entrepreneurial actions and deriving changes. Entrepreneurs take center stage as the narrator, the homo narrans, to interpret commercial success and failure. Students understand the mechanisms of the narrative economy, which in practice coins the action taken and induces change.

Superior module:

Entrepreneurial Behavior 1

Module description:

Upon completing this module, students comprehend the concept of entrepreneurship. They are familiar with the various perspectives of entrepreneurial behavior, that of the entrepreneur, the venture and the whole economy. Moreover, they understand the relevance of intrapreneurship, i.e. the entrepreneurial, innovative behavior of employees to achieve economic success. They know how to balance the approaches of leading and letting go (succession planning). They understand the importance of proactive, entrepreneurial action as opposed to the frequently observed "muddling through". Students are aware of the influence of the economic narrative on entrepreneurial behavior and the deriving changes. They understand the relevance of the narrator (homo narrans) and their ability to interpret economic success or failure to facilitate behavior changes that impact the business.

Course titleSWSECTSTYPE

Academic Research & Writing

Semester 2
Academic year 1
Course code KMBB2WASIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 3
ECTS Credits 4
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

After completing this course, students are able to engage in academic research and writing and are familiar with academic learning and working techniques. They know how to source and rate academic literature and how to filter, condense, structure and evaluate information and knowledge on a given topic. They possess the competency to draw up seminar papers and bachelor theses according to academic standards.

Superior module:

Research Methodology

Module description:

Upon completing this module, students are familiar with and capable of applying academic learning and working techniques. They are able to source and evaluate relevant literature on a given topic and know how to filter, condense, structure and evaluate information and knowledge. In this module, students acquire the competency to draw up seminar papers and bachelor theses according to academic standards.

Finance & Capital Budgeting in SMEs

Semester 2
Academic year 1
Course code KMBB2FIKIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 4
ECTS Credits 5
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students are familiar with the principles of financial management. They know how to apply various capital budgeting computation methods and to assess the benefits of an investment opportunity. They know how to differentiate various financing types and judge their relevance in an SME context. Moreover, students understand the basics of entrepreneurial finance.

Superior module:

Financial Management & Management Accounting

Module description:

Upon completing this module, students possess detailed insights into the fundamentals of corporate finance and the tasks of financial management. They are aware of what factors influence capital budgeting decisions and are able to choose and apply the appropriate static and dynamic capital budgeting computation method. They understand the different financing forms along with their properties, advantages and disadvantages. They are able to assess financing forms for their fit to fund a business, and in particular an SME, considering various influencing factors. Students understand the principles of management accounting and can use it as a management tool to plan, steer and control corporate activities. They are familiar with the tasks of a management accountant, the most relevant management accounting tools and the goals and tasks of strategic management accounting. The module provides a special focus on the particularities of management accounting in SMEs.

How to Communicate your Ideas

Semester 2
Academic year 1
Course code KMBB2HCIIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction English
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 3
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students can tailor innovation-related contents to a specific target audience. They understand the relevance of concise and effective communication and know how to make an impact when presenting a new idea. They are able to explain cause-effect relationsships, to phrase nuanced questions and to judge the effectiveness of written and oral texts. They dispose of sophisticated and relevant vocabulary as well as a profound understanding of text types which they use to create compelling texts and short presentations.

Superior module:

How to Communicate 1

Module description:

The HC modules complement the Innovation Labs. They cover the labs` individual stages (ideation, business model creation, financing) and inspire and assist students in their endeavor to optimize their communication skills. Students learn to present their ideas in an assertive yet emphatic manner, to make other see the value in their ideas - in English. In order to support students in professionalizing their language skills, this module provides students with the opportunity to extend and practice their business vocabulary and sharpen their argumentation skills.

Innovation Lab 1

Semester 2
Academic year 1
Course code KMBB2IL1PT
Type PT
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 4
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing the Innovation Lab 1, students possess a deep understanding of the organizational and human-resources related requirements of innovation processes. They have learned how to initiate innovative processes, search for ideas and present these conclusively to a jury, to answer critical questions and to explain entrepreneurial potentials. Students know how to create imaginative and innovative ideas, respecting their individual resources or existing market conditions and to phrase them strategically. They have developed an appetite to do something completely "new". Upon completing this course, students know the techniques and methods for creative thinking and problem-solving processes. They are able to apply the insights gained in Innovation Lab 1 to develop, design and make new ideas ready for the market as well as provide organizational and market innovation. Students understand the ideation process and know how to apply creative problem-solving techniques and methods. They are able to nudge and implement creative processes within as well as outside their own venture following the principles of "creative leadership".

Superior module:

Innovation Lab 1

Module description:

The Innovation Labs 1 to 3 (semester 2 to 4) offer students the space and opportunity to transfer the until then acquired theoretical knowledge into practice. Joining theory and practice allows students to also draw extensively on the practical expertise they have gained in their professional careers in the individual phases of the project. Following the principles of applied education for professional practice and learning by doing, the acquired theoretical knowledge is immediately transferred into practical application. Simultaneously, the framework of this course provides students with the space to learn how to critically reflect, explain and assess alternatives for action in detailed, real-life business scenarios. The Innovation Labs 1 to 3 represent a practical entrepreneurial approach to finding solutions for SME-specific challenges and are divided into three major phases: 1) Ideation: in this phase, students enter "unchartered thinking territory", which is followed up by a strategic feasibility analysis. 2) Business model creation: in this phase, students design a comprehensive business model. 3) Financing: in this phase, students carry out a feasibility analysis to identify potential financing methods. Upon completing these modules, students possess the necessary skills to design all company processes from ideation to product and from order to entrepreneurial profit and to implement them in a business venture. Moreover, they are able to creatively position processes in their own family ventures and establish them against opposition. Drawing on this, they are able to anticipate, enforce and manage development, design and market-ready realizations of new ideas, as well as organizational and market innovation, and know how to evaluate resulting consequences. Upon completing the Innovation Lab 1 module, students possess a deepened understanding of the organizational and individual requirements of innovation processes. They have learned to initiate innovative processes, search for ideas and conclusively present these to a jury, to answer critical questions and explain the entrepreneurial potentials. Students know how to create imaginative and innovative ideas, respecting their individual resources or existing market conditions and to phrase them strategically. They have developed an appetite to do something completely "new". Students know how to apply the insights gained in the Innovation Lab 1 to develop, design and realize market-ready ideas, as well as organization and market innovation. They understand the opportunities and limitations of innovation management and, in particular, are aware of the opportunities and limitations of generating innovative solutions, as well as integrative innovation processes, in the context of small and medium-sized companies. They are familiar with the tools of strategic innovation management and equally understand the key questions of operative innovation management.

Innovation Management

Semester 2
Academic year 1
Course code KMBB2IMGIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 2
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students understand how to work on the processes and methods to develop new innovative products and services from various perspectives individually or in teams. They have acquired a deepened understanding of the organizational and human resources related requirements for innovation processes. They are familiar with the opportunities and limitations of generating innovative solutions, as well as of designing integrative innovation processes. They know the tools of strategic innovation management and are equally aware of the key questions of tactical/operative innovation management. By applying various creativity methods and techniques, students are able to nudge and implement creative processes in business ventures. Accordingly, they can develop and manage new product ideas, as well as anticipate deriving consequences.

Superior module:

Innovation Lab 1

Module description:

The Innovation Labs 1 to 3 (semester 2 to 4) offer students the space and opportunity to transfer the until then acquired theoretical knowledge into practice. Joining theory and practice allows students to also draw extensively on the practical expertise they have gained in their professional careers in the individual phases of the project. Following the principles of applied education for professional practice and learning by doing, the acquired theoretical knowledge is immediately transferred into practical application. Simultaneously, the framework of this course provides students with the space to learn how to critically reflect, explain and assess alternatives for action in detailed, real-life business scenarios. The Innovation Labs 1 to 3 represent a practical entrepreneurial approach to finding solutions for SME-specific challenges and are divided into three major phases: 1) Ideation: in this phase, students enter "unchartered thinking territory", which is followed up by a strategic feasibility analysis. 2) Business model creation: in this phase, students design a comprehensive business model. 3) Financing: in this phase, students carry out a feasibility analysis to identify potential financing methods. Upon completing these modules, students possess the necessary skills to design all company processes from ideation to product and from order to entrepreneurial profit and to implement them in a business venture. Moreover, they are able to creatively position processes in their own family ventures and establish them against opposition. Drawing on this, they are able to anticipate, enforce and manage development, design and market-ready realizations of new ideas, as well as organizational and market innovation, and know how to evaluate resulting consequences. Upon completing the Innovation Lab 1 module, students possess a deepened understanding of the organizational and individual requirements of innovation processes. They have learned to initiate innovative processes, search for ideas and conclusively present these to a jury, to answer critical questions and explain the entrepreneurial potentials. Students know how to create imaginative and innovative ideas, respecting their individual resources or existing market conditions and to phrase them strategically. They have developed an appetite to do something completely "new". Students know how to apply the insights gained in the Innovation Lab 1 to develop, design and realize market-ready ideas, as well as organization and market innovation. They understand the opportunities and limitations of innovation management and, in particular, are aware of the opportunities and limitations of generating innovative solutions, as well as integrative innovation processes, in the context of small and medium-sized companies. They are familiar with the tools of strategic innovation management and equally understand the key questions of operative innovation management.

Management Accounting in SMEs

Semester 2
Academic year 1
Course code KMBB2CIKIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 3
ECTS Credits 4
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing the course, students know how to apply management accounting as a management tool to plan, steer and monitor corporate activities. They understand how to use the most relevant controlling tools in an SME context and can design management accounting activities tailored to SMEs.

Superior module:

Financial Management & Management Accounting

Module description:

Upon completing this module, students possess detailed insights into the fundamentals of corporate finance and the tasks of financial management. They are aware of what factors influence capital budgeting decisions and are able to choose and apply the appropriate static and dynamic capital budgeting computation method. They understand the different financing forms along with their properties, advantages and disadvantages. They are able to assess financing forms for their fit to fund a business, and in particular an SME, considering various influencing factors. Students understand the principles of management accounting and can use it as a management tool to plan, steer and control corporate activities. They are familiar with the tasks of a management accountant, the most relevant management accounting tools and the goals and tasks of strategic management accounting. The module provides a special focus on the particularities of management accounting in SMEs.

Qualitative Methods

Semester 2
Academic year 1
Course code KMBB2QLVIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 3
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing the course, students understand the processes and basic methods of qualitative research. They are able to independently design and execute simple surveys and systematically analyze the collected information. Moreover, they have acquired the competency to rate, systematically process and interpret their findings. Students are familiar with the quality criteria for qualitative research and are able to interpret research contributions accordingly.

Superior module:

Research Methodology

Module description:

Upon completing this module, students are familiar with and capable of applying academic learning and working techniques. They are able to source and evaluate relevant literature on a given topic and know how to filter, condense, structure and evaluate information and knowledge. In this module, students acquire the competency to draw up seminar papers and bachelor theses according to academic standards.

Quantitative Methods

Semester 2
Academic year 1
Course code KMBB2QAVIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 3
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students are familiar with the key application fields, advantages and disadvantages of quantitative research methods and are able to link them logically to research questions. They are capable of designing and evaluating simple quantitative surveys and to systematically process and interpret the findings. Students are familiar with the quality criteria for quantitative research and are able to interpret research contributions accordingly.

Superior module:

Research Methodology

Module description:

Upon completing this module, students are familiar with and capable of applying academic learning and working techniques. They are able to source and evaluate relevant literature on a given topic and know how to filter, condense, structure and evaluate information and knowledge. In this module, students acquire the competency to draw up seminar papers and bachelor theses according to academic standards.

Work Placement

Semester 2
Academic year 1
Course code KMBB2BPRIT
Type IT
Kind Internship (N)
Language of instruction German
SWS 0
ECTS Credits 2
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this module, students are familiar with the corporate and social environment, as well as with processes and organizational structure, of small and medium-sized enterprises. They have acquired the capability to work on complex problems under supervision and to independently execute tasks. They have learned to integrate into teams and collaborate across departments or corporate fields.

Superior module:

Work Placement

Module description:

Upon completing this module, students are familiar with the corporate and social environment, as well as with processes and organizational structure, of small and medium-sized enterprises and have gained professional experience.

Course titleSWSECTSTYPE

Brand Communication & Digitalization

Semester 3
Academic year 2
Course code KMBB3MDTIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 3
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students understand the principle of corporate communication and, in particular, of social media communication; they know how to analyze the potentials and limitations of acquiring new contacts and customers. Students are aware of the individual tools of online and offline communication, as well as with the various user types. They appreciate the relevance of content marketing and storytelling along with their entertaining and inspiring contributions for SMEs, as well as larger corporations. They are capable of measuring the success of social media marketing in a basic way.

Superior module:

Brands & Marketing

Module description:

Upon completing this course, students are capable of explaining the various types and definitions of entrepreneurial marketing. They understand to join entrepreneurial marketing with classic marketing tools such as digital communication, price setting, product management and innovation in order to achieve a comprehensive, responsible perspective. They are capable of recognizing the implications of societal developments e.g., resource bottlenecks or climate crises, on developing product innovations or also the extent to which digitalization changes company communications. Moreover, they are aware of the particularities of start-up companies, SMEs and family-managed businesses and understand the deriving implications for brand management on a company and product level.

Brand Creation & Innovation

Semester 3
Academic year 2
Course code KMBB3MUIIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 3
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students are able to define the brand concept on a product and company level and are capable of evaluating the opportunities and limitations of SMEs and family-managed businesses to position a brand. They are aware of what innovation from a wholistic perspective means and understand the basic principles of a responsible innovation process along with its implications for the brand creation process.

Superior module:

Brands & Marketing

Module description:

Upon completing this course, students are capable of explaining the various types and definitions of entrepreneurial marketing. They understand to join entrepreneurial marketing with classic marketing tools such as digital communication, price setting, product management and innovation in order to achieve a comprehensive, responsible perspective. They are capable of recognizing the implications of societal developments e.g., resource bottlenecks or climate crises, on developing product innovations or also the extent to which digitalization changes company communications. Moreover, they are aware of the particularities of start-up companies, SMEs and family-managed businesses and understand the deriving implications for brand management on a company and product level.

Developing Business Models

Semester 3
Academic year 2
Course code KMBB3EVGIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 1
ECTS Credits 2
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students are familiar with the most relevant cornerstones of creating, assessing and strategically implementing a business model. They are aware of the key factors of company success and failure and are able to analyze and communicate these. They understand the relevance of available human resources and existing networks, as well as the interplay of the producer`s pricing expectations versus the customers` willingness to pay this price. They are capable of deconstructing and analyzing existing or even prevailing business models. They recognize historical models and their assumptions, as well as new attempts to increase the market potentials of SMEs.

Superior module:

Innovation Lab 2

Module description:

The Innovation Labs 1 to 3 (semester 2 to 4) offer students the space and opportunity to transfer the until then acquired theoretical knowledge into practice. Joining theory and practice allows students to also draw extensively on the practical expertise they have gained in their professional careers for the individual phases of the project. Following the principles of applied education for professional practice and learning by doing, the acquired theoretical knowledge is immediately transferred into practical application. Simultaneously, the framework of this course provides students with the space to learn how to critically reflect, explain and assess alternatives for action for detailed, real-life business scenarios. The Innovation Labs 1 to 3 represent a practical entrepreneurial approach to finding solutions for SME-specific challenges and are divided into three major phases: 1) Ideation: in this phase, students enter "unchartered thinking territory", which is followed up by a strategic feasibility analysis. 2) Business model creation: in this phase, students design a comprehensive business model. 3) Financing: in this phase, students carry out a feasibility analysis to identify potential financing methods. Upon completing these modules, students possess the necessary skills to design all company processes from ideation to product and from order to entrepreneurial profit and to implement them in a business venture. Moreover, they are able to creatively position processes in their own family ventures and establish them against opposition. Drawing on this, they are able to anticipate, enforce and manage development, design and market-ready realizations of new ideas as well as organizational and market innovation and know to evaluate resulting consequences. Upon completing the Innovation Lab 2 module, students know how to describe processes and methods for producing professional products and services from various perspectives and how to transform the idea created in Innovation Lab 1 into a sound business proposition. They have created a comprehensive overview of costs and results with a particular focus on the required human resources in form of a classic 3-year plan and are thus capable of assessing potential risks. Students understand how businesses can build longterm relationships with their customers, as well as the relevance of customer satisfaction. Students are aware of the fact that SMEs often need to execute new ideas and ingenious marketing activities on very tight budgets; they understand to think out-of-the-box and surprise with the unexpected in order to outshine competition. Moreover, they know that the internet has changed to common understanding of marketing and how to use it as a marketing, as well as a marketed-oriented e-commerce tool. They are aware of the relationship between entrepreneurial marketing and classic marketing instruments, with a particular focus on pricing decisions and price management. They can explain why it is essential to observe the market for creating a business plan or a strategy. Students also recognize that SME / family-managed business success strongly depends on the cooperation of the various stakeholders (customers, advertising and media agencies, retailers, distribution partners, logistics providers) when positioning themselves on the market.

Digital Transformation

Semester 3
Academic year 2
Course code KMBB3DIGIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 3
ECTS Credits 3
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students are aware of current technological solutions to digitalize value chain processes in SMEs. They have a basic understanding of how to assess these regarding their costs and benefits as well as regarding the technological maturity.

Superior module:

Process Management & Digitalization

Module description:

Upon completing this course, students understand the principles of process management, as well as of quality-oriented process control. Moreover, they are capable of recognizing and documenting business processes and analyze these for optimization potentials. In this module, students also learn to correctly use PC and network technologies. As topics like industry 4.0 and smart factories are becoming increasingly relevant also for SME performance, students acquire a fundamental understanding of the digitalization of value chains in SMEs. Thus prepared, students are able to meet the challenges of digital transformation in SMEs.

Entrepreneurial Marketing

Semester 3
Academic year 2
Course code KMBB3EPMIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 3
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students can explain the various forms and definitions of entrepreneurial marketing. They manage to relate entrepreneurial marketing with classic marketing tools, with a particular focus on pricing decisions and price management. They can elaborate the reasons it is essential to observe the market to create a business plan or strategy. Students also recognize that SME / family-managed business success strongly depends on the cooperation of the various stakeholders (customers, advertising and media agencies, retailers, distribution partners, logistics providers) when positioning themselves in the market.

Superior module:

Innovation Lab 2

Module description:

The Innovation Labs 1 to 3 (semester 2 to 4) offer students the space and opportunity to transfer the until then acquired theoretical knowledge into practice. Joining theory and practice allows students to also draw extensively on the practical expertise they have gained in their professional careers for the individual phases of the project. Following the principles of applied education for professional practice and learning by doing, the acquired theoretical knowledge is immediately transferred into practical application. Simultaneously, the framework of this course provides students with the space to learn how to critically reflect, explain and assess alternatives for action for detailed, real-life business scenarios. The Innovation Labs 1 to 3 represent a practical entrepreneurial approach to finding solutions for SME-specific challenges and are divided into three major phases: 1) Ideation: in this phase, students enter "unchartered thinking territory", which is followed up by a strategic feasibility analysis. 2) Business model creation: in this phase, students design a comprehensive business model. 3) Financing: in this phase, students carry out a feasibility analysis to identify potential financing methods. Upon completing these modules, students possess the necessary skills to design all company processes from ideation to product and from order to entrepreneurial profit and to implement them in a business venture. Moreover, they are able to creatively position processes in their own family ventures and establish them against opposition. Drawing on this, they are able to anticipate, enforce and manage development, design and market-ready realizations of new ideas as well as organizational and market innovation and know to evaluate resulting consequences. Upon completing the Innovation Lab 2 module, students know how to describe processes and methods for producing professional products and services from various perspectives and how to transform the idea created in Innovation Lab 1 into a sound business proposition. They have created a comprehensive overview of costs and results with a particular focus on the required human resources in form of a classic 3-year plan and are thus capable of assessing potential risks. Students understand how businesses can build longterm relationships with their customers, as well as the relevance of customer satisfaction. Students are aware of the fact that SMEs often need to execute new ideas and ingenious marketing activities on very tight budgets; they understand to think out-of-the-box and surprise with the unexpected in order to outshine competition. Moreover, they know that the internet has changed to common understanding of marketing and how to use it as a marketing, as well as a marketed-oriented e-commerce tool. They are aware of the relationship between entrepreneurial marketing and classic marketing instruments, with a particular focus on pricing decisions and price management. They can explain why it is essential to observe the market for creating a business plan or a strategy. Students also recognize that SME / family-managed business success strongly depends on the cooperation of the various stakeholders (customers, advertising and media agencies, retailers, distribution partners, logistics providers) when positioning themselves on the market.

Fundamental PC Skills

Semester 3
Academic year 2
Course code KMBB3GPKIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 3
ECTS Credits 3
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students possess basic skills in PC technology and know how to use standard software such as MS Excel and MS PowerPoint.

Superior module:

Process Management & Digitalization

Module description:

Upon completing this course, students understand the principles of process management, as well as of quality-oriented process control. Moreover, they are capable of recognizing and documenting business processes and analyze these for optimization potentials. In this module, students also learn to correctly use PC and network technologies. As topics like industry 4.0 and smart factories are becoming increasingly relevant also for SME performance, students acquire a fundamental understanding of the digitalization of value chains in SMEs. Thus prepared, students are able to meet the challenges of digital transformation in SMEs.

How to Communicate Your Business Ideas

Semester 3
Academic year 2
Course code KMBB3HCBIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction English
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 3
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students are able to convey all aspects that relate to designing and implementing a business model. They understand the impact of corporate strategies and visions and how to phrase these to provide anchor points for (potential) stakeholders. Students are aware of the implications of cross-cultural collaboration, negotiation and recruiting activities. They have acquired the vocabulary as well as an understanding of how to comprehensively prepare for negotiations and know how the language can be used effectively to achieve their goals.

Superior module:

How to Communicate 2

Module description:

The HC modules complement the Innovation Labs. They cover the labs` individual stages (ideation, business model creation, financing) and inspire and assist students in their endeavor to optimize their communication skills. Students learn to present their ideas in an assertive yet emphatic manner, to make other see the value in their ideas - in English. In order to support students in professionalizing their language skills, this module provides students with the opportunity to extend and practice their business vocabulary and sharpen their argumentation skills.

Innovation Lab 2

Semester 3
Academic year 2
Course code KMBB3IL2PT
Type PT
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 4
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students are capable of explaining the processes and methods to produce professional products and services from various perspectives and to translate the idea generated in Innovation Lab 1 into a sound business proposition. They have created a comprehensive overview of costs and results with a particular focus on the required human resources in form of a classic 3-year plan and are thus capable of assessing potential risks. They are able to assess the extent of potential internal or external financing. Should the business model be oriented towards an exit strategy, students are capable of specifying a projected market value including a selling price.

Superior module:

Innovation Lab 2

Module description:

The Innovation Labs 1 to 3 (semester 2 to 4) offer students the space and opportunity to transfer the until then acquired theoretical knowledge into practice. Joining theory and practice allows students to also draw extensively on the practical expertise they have gained in their professional careers for the individual phases of the project. Following the principles of applied education for professional practice and learning by doing, the acquired theoretical knowledge is immediately transferred into practical application. Simultaneously, the framework of this course provides students with the space to learn how to critically reflect, explain and assess alternatives for action for detailed, real-life business scenarios. The Innovation Labs 1 to 3 represent a practical entrepreneurial approach to finding solutions for SME-specific challenges and are divided into three major phases: 1) Ideation: in this phase, students enter "unchartered thinking territory", which is followed up by a strategic feasibility analysis. 2) Business model creation: in this phase, students design a comprehensive business model. 3) Financing: in this phase, students carry out a feasibility analysis to identify potential financing methods. Upon completing these modules, students possess the necessary skills to design all company processes from ideation to product and from order to entrepreneurial profit and to implement them in a business venture. Moreover, they are able to creatively position processes in their own family ventures and establish them against opposition. Drawing on this, they are able to anticipate, enforce and manage development, design and market-ready realizations of new ideas as well as organizational and market innovation and know to evaluate resulting consequences. Upon completing the Innovation Lab 2 module, students know how to describe processes and methods for producing professional products and services from various perspectives and how to transform the idea created in Innovation Lab 1 into a sound business proposition. They have created a comprehensive overview of costs and results with a particular focus on the required human resources in form of a classic 3-year plan and are thus capable of assessing potential risks. Students understand how businesses can build longterm relationships with their customers, as well as the relevance of customer satisfaction. Students are aware of the fact that SMEs often need to execute new ideas and ingenious marketing activities on very tight budgets; they understand to think out-of-the-box and surprise with the unexpected in order to outshine competition. Moreover, they know that the internet has changed to common understanding of marketing and how to use it as a marketing, as well as a marketed-oriented e-commerce tool. They are aware of the relationship between entrepreneurial marketing and classic marketing instruments, with a particular focus on pricing decisions and price management. They can explain why it is essential to observe the market for creating a business plan or a strategy. Students also recognize that SME / family-managed business success strongly depends on the cooperation of the various stakeholders (customers, advertising and media agencies, retailers, distribution partners, logistics providers) when positioning themselves on the market.

Process Management

Semester 3
Academic year 2
Course code KMBB3PMTPT
Type PT
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 3
ECTS Credits 3
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students are familiar with the basic principles of process management as well as quality-oriented process control. Moreover, they are capable of recognizing and documenting business processes and analyze these for optimization potentials.

Superior module:

Process Management & Digitalization

Module description:

Upon completing this course, students understand the principles of process management, as well as of quality-oriented process control. Moreover, they are capable of recognizing and documenting business processes and analyze these for optimization potentials. In this module, students also learn to correctly use PC and network technologies. As topics like industry 4.0 and smart factories are becoming increasingly relevant also for SME performance, students acquire a fundamental understanding of the digitalization of value chains in SMEs. Thus prepared, students are able to meet the challenges of digital transformation in SMEs.

Work Placement

Semester 3
Academic year 2
Course code KMBB3BPRIT
Type IT
Kind Internship (N)
Language of instruction German
SWS 0
ECTS Credits 3
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this module, students are familiar with the corporate and social environment, as well as with processes and organizational structure, of small and medium-sized enterprises. They have acquired the capability to work on complex problems under supervision and to independently execute tasks. They have learned to integrate into teams and collaborate across departments or corporate fields.

Superior module:

Work Placement

Module description:

Upon completing this module, students are familiar with the corporate and social environment, as well as with processes and organizational structure, of small and medium-sized enterprises and have gained professional experience.

Course titleSWSECTSTYPE

BA-Colloquium

Semester 4
Academic year 2
Course code KMBB4BAKSE
Type SE
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 1
ECTS Credits 2
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this module, students are capable of finding and preparing a topic and know how to draw up a proposal for an academic thesis. They are aware of the content and organizational criteria of a bachelor thesis.

Superior module:

Bachelor Factory 1

Module description:

Upon completing this module, students are capable of finding and preparing a topic and know how to draw up a proposal for an academic thesis. They are aware of the content and organizational criteria for their bachelor theses.

Financing

Semester 4
Academic year 2
Course code KMBB4FIMIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 1
ECTS Credits 2
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students understand the basic principles of corporate finance management. They are familiar with the different types of financing along with their characteristics, advantages and disadvantages and can assess the fit of these financing forms for establishing or growing business ventures considering the relevant influencing factors. They are aware of the particularities and problem areas of SME financing and entrepreneurial finance. Students are capable of validating their business models and derive a suitable financing form. They are able to link the stages of the life cycle (introduction - growth - maturity - saturation) with different types of financing (debt capital or equity capital). At the same time, they are aware of the hard and soft facts that are relevant to convince a potential investor in an investor pitch. All these aspects are then relevant in for students in the Innovation Lab 3 to consider when submitting the final evaluation of the financial feasibility of their individual projects.

Superior module:

Innovation Lab 3

Module description:

The Innovation Labs 1 to 3 (semester 2 to 4) offer students the space and opportunity to transfer the until then acquired theoretical knowledge into practice. Joining theory and practice allows students to also draw extensively on the practical expertise they have gained in their professional careers during the individual phases of the project. Following the principles of applied education for professional practice and learning by doing, the acquired theoretical knowledge is immediately transferred into practical application. Simultaneously, the framework of this course provides students with the space to learn how to critically reflect, explain and assess alternatives for action for detailed, real-life business scenarios. The Innovation Labs 1 to 3 represent a practical entrepreneurial approach to finding solutions for SME-specific challenges and are divided into three major phases: 1) Ideation: in this phase, students enter "unchartered thinking territory", which is followed up by a strategic feasibility analysis. 2) Business model creation: in this phase, students design a comprehensive business model. 3) Financing: in this phase, students carry out a feasibility analysis to identify potential financing methods. Upon completing these modules, students possess the necessary skills to design all company processes from ideation to product and from order to entrepreneurial profit and to implement them in a business venture. Moreover, they are able to creatively position processes in their own family ventures and establish them against opposition. Drawing on this, they are able to anticipate, enforce and manage development, design and market-ready realizations of new ideas as well as organizational and market innovation and know to evaluate resulting consequences. Upon completing the Innovation Lab 3 module, students know how to adequately finance their own business models, especially considering the difference between seed and operating capital. They understand the opportunities for how to convince investors of their ideas and are able to assess contractual stipulations of financing proposals. Likewise, they are capable of identifying under which conditions the market would be ready to invest. Students possess the skills to evaluate a business model in order to derive the most appropriate financing types. They know how to combine the stages of the life cycle (introduction - growth - maturity - saturation) with different financing types (debt financing or equity financing). At the same time, they are aware of the hard and soft facts that are relevant to convince a potential investor in an investor pitch. All these aspects are then relevant for students in the Innovation Lab 3 to consider when submitting the final evaluation of the financial feasibility of their individual projects.

How to Communicate Financial Dimensions

Semester 4
Academic year 2
Course code KMBB4HCFIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction English
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 3
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students understand the impact of persuasive language as a selling tool. They are able to express how they want to monetise their business ideas and explain their unique selling propositions convincingly without overselling themselves and their ideas and thus losing credibility and authenticity. Students are aware of the power of storytelling and have acquired the tools to make memorable and relatable pitches.

Superior module:

How to Communicate 3

Module description:

The HC modules complement the Innovation Labs. They cover the labs` individual stages (ideation, business model creation, financing) and inspire and assist students in their endeavor to optimize their communication skills. Students learn to present their ideas in an assertive yet emphatic manner, to make other see the value in their ideas - in English. In order to support students in professionalizing their language skills, this module provides students with the opportunity to extend and practice their business vocabulary and sharpen their argumentation skills.

Human Resource Management in SMEs

Semester 4
Academic year 2
Course code KMBB4HRMIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 4
ECTS Credits 6
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students understand the basic structure and functionalities of human resource management. They are familiar with the essential HR activities. Students know the key tools of human resource management for SME-specific scenarios and how to apply these adequately.

Superior module:

Human capital

Module description:

Upon completing this module, students are familiar with the essential HR activities. They know the key tools in Human Resource Management for SME-specific situations and understand how to use these adequately. Moreover, they have acquired the skills to assess and adhere to the legal requirements of company law, as well as labor and employment law.

Innovation Lab 3

Semester 4
Academic year 2
Course code KMBB4IL3PT
Type PT
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 4
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students are able to evaluate their business model according to financial and substantial criteria. They know how to price their ventures and understand how to present their considerations and concepts to investors. Moreover, they are capable of providing a balanced assessment according to relevant criteria of under which conditions the financial market would be ready to invest in their proposition.

Superior module:

Innovation Lab 3

Module description:

The Innovation Labs 1 to 3 (semester 2 to 4) offer students the space and opportunity to transfer the until then acquired theoretical knowledge into practice. Joining theory and practice allows students to also draw extensively on the practical expertise they have gained in their professional careers during the individual phases of the project. Following the principles of applied education for professional practice and learning by doing, the acquired theoretical knowledge is immediately transferred into practical application. Simultaneously, the framework of this course provides students with the space to learn how to critically reflect, explain and assess alternatives for action for detailed, real-life business scenarios. The Innovation Labs 1 to 3 represent a practical entrepreneurial approach to finding solutions for SME-specific challenges and are divided into three major phases: 1) Ideation: in this phase, students enter "unchartered thinking territory", which is followed up by a strategic feasibility analysis. 2) Business model creation: in this phase, students design a comprehensive business model. 3) Financing: in this phase, students carry out a feasibility analysis to identify potential financing methods. Upon completing these modules, students possess the necessary skills to design all company processes from ideation to product and from order to entrepreneurial profit and to implement them in a business venture. Moreover, they are able to creatively position processes in their own family ventures and establish them against opposition. Drawing on this, they are able to anticipate, enforce and manage development, design and market-ready realizations of new ideas as well as organizational and market innovation and know to evaluate resulting consequences. Upon completing the Innovation Lab 3 module, students know how to adequately finance their own business models, especially considering the difference between seed and operating capital. They understand the opportunities for how to convince investors of their ideas and are able to assess contractual stipulations of financing proposals. Likewise, they are capable of identifying under which conditions the market would be ready to invest. Students possess the skills to evaluate a business model in order to derive the most appropriate financing types. They know how to combine the stages of the life cycle (introduction - growth - maturity - saturation) with different financing types (debt financing or equity financing). At the same time, they are aware of the hard and soft facts that are relevant to convince a potential investor in an investor pitch. All these aspects are then relevant for students in the Innovation Lab 3 to consider when submitting the final evaluation of the financial feasibility of their individual projects.

Labor and Employment Law

Semester 4
Academic year 2
Course code KMBB4AUSIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 1
ECTS Credits 1
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students are capable of assessing scenarios relating to labor and employment law in SMEs adequately and find solutions. Should a situation prove to be too complex, students understand, when to consult a specialist and are ready to serve as a competent reference person.

Superior module:

Human capital

Module description:

Upon completing this module, students are familiar with the essential HR activities. They know the key tools in Human Resource Management for SME-specific situations and understand how to use these adequately. Moreover, they have acquired the skills to assess and adhere to the legal requirements of company law, as well as labor and employment law.

Project Management

Semester 4
Academic year 2
Course code KMBB4PMTPT
Type PT
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 7
ECTS Credits 10
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students possess sound knowledge of project management with a special focus on the conditions in small and medium-sized companies. They are capable of describing the main activities, as well as the allocation of responsibility areas. They know how to create reports, how to deal with micro-political processes in businesses and how to make target-performance comparisons. They understand how to execute project management under the resource and competency bottlenecks particular to SMEs.

Superior module:

Project Management

Module description:

Upon completing this module, students possess profound knowledge in the field of project management with a special focus on the conditions in small and medium-sized enterprises. They are capable of naming the main activities, as well as the allocation of responsibilities. They know how to create reports, how to deal with micropolitical processes in businesses and how to make target-performance comparisons. They understand how to execute project management under the resource and competency bottlenecks particular to SMEs.

Work Placement

Semester 4
Academic year 2
Course code KMBB4BPRIT
Type IT
Kind Internship (N)
Language of instruction German
SWS 0
ECTS Credits 2
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this module, students are familiar with the corporate and social environment, as well as with processes and organizational structure, of small and medium-sized enterprises. They have acquired the capability to work on complex problems under supervision and to independently execute tasks. They have learned to integrate into teams and collaborate across departments or corporate fields.

Superior module:

Work Placement

Module description:

Upon completing this module, students are familiar with the corporate and social environment, as well as with processes and organizational structure, of small and medium-sized enterprises and have gained professional experience.

Course titleSWSECTSTYPE

Bachelor Paper & Coaching Seminar Winter Semester

Semester 5
Academic year 3
Course code KMBB5BB1SE
Type SE
Kind Bachelor thesis
Language of instruction German
SWS 1
ECTS Credits 5
Examination character immanent

Lecture content:

Students present and reflect on their progress and defend their work before teachers and peers.

Superior module:

Bachelor Factory 2

Module description:

By drawing up a bachelor thesis, students demonstrate their ability to individually apply scientific methodology and discussion on a task relevant to their field of studies within a set timeframe and to present resulting findings in a clear and structured way. Students understand how to identify the problem content of a task, systemize their thoughts, structure contents, find results by applying appropriate methods and argue their findings in a convincing way.

Cooperation

Semester 5
Academic year 3
Course code KMBB5KOPIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 1
ECTS Credits 2
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students appreciate the increasing relevance of inter-company networks and cooperation for company success in a dynamically evolving environment. They are familiar with the requirements when opening up to the exterior, e.g., in terms of cooperation, consulting, transnational activities, as well as the necessity specific to medium-sized businesses to align such activities with stakeholders. Drawing on the contents of this course, students are capable of analyzing and evaluating the possibilities and limitations of inter-company cooperation, which is increasingly relevant particularly for innovation and new market entry activities, in a decision-oriented way. Equally, they have acquired an understanding of how to manage company networks, as well as cooperation with funding and R&D institutions.

Superior module:

Entrepreneurial Behavior 2

Module description:

Upon completing this module, students understand that due to the limited resources in SMEs not all customers can be dealt with in the same way. They know the criteria that help identify business customers with yield potential. They are aware of the different organization forms, that are relevant for key account management and understand how to assess these. Students comprehend the relevance and opportunities of cooperation. Aware of the resources and competency bottlenecks of SMEs they understand how cooperating with others can help overcome these. Similarly, they are familiar with the potentials of initiating inter-company cooperation. They understand that cooperation can be "risk traps" due to external factors and accordingly that any cooperation effort needs to be well pondered and anchored in the company strategy. The acquired knowledge can be tested and discussed in the guest lectures with SME experts. These discussions allow to interlink qualification profiles even more tightly with the daily operations and topical questions. Participating actively, students deepen and sharpen the acquired competencies and practical interests.

Distribution Management

Semester 5
Academic year 3
Course code KMBB5VMTIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 3
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students are aware of the relevance of distribution along with its activities. Building on the principles of the value chain, students understand the significance of distribution management and how to use it strategically. They are familiar with the typical challenges of developing, implementing and maintaining strategic and operative distribution structures. They comprehend the basic principles and concepts (e.g., value proposition, customer relationships, types of distribution channels, customer segmentation and aligning distribution structures), as well as how these are implemented in practice.

Superior module:

Distribution

Module description:

Students understand sales and distribution as a strategic field and operative activity in the SME context. They are aware of the relevance of distribution and key account management in the value chain. They know how to create a distribution plan and how to execute successful sales conversations.

Guest Lectures

Semester 5
Academic year 3
Course code KMBB5KAMSE
Type SE
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 0
ECTS Credits 1
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students have acquired insights to current aspects of business practice through a series of guest lectures. They are aware of the challenges and opportunities regional entrepreneurs are facing and see various aspects of entrepreneurial action. By discussing relevant topics with experts, they have improved their argumentation and communication skills.

Superior module:

Entrepreneurial Behavior 2

Module description:

Upon completing this module, students understand that due to the limited resources in SMEs not all customers can be dealt with in the same way. They know the criteria that help identify business customers with yield potential. They are aware of the different organization forms, that are relevant for key account management and understand how to assess these. Students comprehend the relevance and opportunities of cooperation. Aware of the resources and competency bottlenecks of SMEs they understand how cooperating with others can help overcome these. Similarly, they are familiar with the potentials of initiating inter-company cooperation. They understand that cooperation can be "risk traps" due to external factors and accordingly that any cooperation effort needs to be well pondered and anchored in the company strategy. The acquired knowledge can be tested and discussed in the guest lectures with SME experts. These discussions allow to interlink qualification profiles even more tightly with the daily operations and topical questions. Participating actively, students deepen and sharpen the acquired competencies and practical interests.

Key-Account Management

Semester 5
Academic year 3
Course code KMBB5KAMIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 3
ECTS Credits 4
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students understand that due to the limited resources in SMEs not all customers can be dealt with in the same way. They know the criteria that help identify business customers with yield potential. They are aware of the different organization forms, that are relevant for key account management and understand how to assess these.

Superior module:

Entrepreneurial Behavior 2

Module description:

Upon completing this module, students understand that due to the limited resources in SMEs not all customers can be dealt with in the same way. They know the criteria that help identify business customers with yield potential. They are aware of the different organization forms, that are relevant for key account management and understand how to assess these. Students comprehend the relevance and opportunities of cooperation. Aware of the resources and competency bottlenecks of SMEs they understand how cooperating with others can help overcome these. Similarly, they are familiar with the potentials of initiating inter-company cooperation. They understand that cooperation can be "risk traps" due to external factors and accordingly that any cooperation effort needs to be well pondered and anchored in the company strategy. The acquired knowledge can be tested and discussed in the guest lectures with SME experts. These discussions allow to interlink qualification profiles even more tightly with the daily operations and topical questions. Participating actively, students deepen and sharpen the acquired competencies and practical interests.

Risk & Crisis Management

Semester 5
Academic year 3
Course code KMBB5RUKIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 3
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students are capable of recognizing, assessing and adequately addressing risk situations/crises in SMEs. They are aware of the required competencies and organizational conditions in risk situations and crises.

Superior module:

Social Competencies

Module description:

Students determine their individually effective communication and presentation styles. They are able to communicate authentically but also adequately for the situation and system. They are capable of moderating work groups efficiently. Students know how to recognize, assess and adequately address risk situations and crisis scenarios in SMEs. They are aware of the required competencies and organizational conditions in risk situations and crises. Students understand the various existing roles in SMEs. Consequently, they can distinguish, interpret and proactively address the communication and behavior of different role occupants.

Roles & their Understanding

Semester 5
Academic year 3
Course code KMBB5RUVIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 2
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students understand the existing various roles in SMEs. Consequently, they have a balanced perception and interpretation of the communication and behavior of different role occupants and can address these proactively.

Superior module:

Social Competencies

Module description:

Students determine their individually effective communication and presentation styles. They are able to communicate authentically but also adequately for the situation and system. They are capable of moderating work groups efficiently. Students know how to recognize, assess and adequately address risk situations and crisis scenarios in SMEs. They are aware of the required competencies and organizational conditions in risk situations and crises. Students understand the various existing roles in SMEs. Consequently, they can distinguish, interpret and proactively address the communication and behavior of different role occupants.

Selling & Sales Training

Semester 5
Academic year 3
Course code KMBB5SUVIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 3
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students are capable of successfully executing typical selling situations that are based on practice-oriented application examples and exercises. They are familiar with the current design and structure, as well as the methods of sales conversations and know how to apply these.

Superior module:

Distribution

Module description:

Students understand sales and distribution as a strategic field and operative activity in the SME context. They are aware of the relevance of distribution and key account management in the value chain. They know how to create a distribution plan and how to execute successful sales conversations.

Social Skills

Semester 5
Academic year 3
Course code KMBB5SSKIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 4
ECTS Credits 4
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students have found their individually effective communication and presentation styles. They are able to authentically but also adequately communicate for the situation and system. They make convincing and effective presentations using their individual presentation styles. Students know how to efficiently moderate work groups. They recognize team processes to optimize working in teams. They are capable of convincing by arguing with clear statements, and of applying negotiation techniques.

Superior module:

Social Competencies

Module description:

Students determine their individually effective communication and presentation styles. They are able to communicate authentically but also adequately for the situation and system. They are capable of moderating work groups efficiently. Students know how to recognize, assess and adequately address risk situations and crisis scenarios in SMEs. They are aware of the required competencies and organizational conditions in risk situations and crises. Students understand the various existing roles in SMEs. Consequently, they can distinguish, interpret and proactively address the communication and behavior of different role occupants.

Work Placement

Semester 5
Academic year 3
Course code KMBB5BPRIT
Type IT
Kind Internship (N)
Language of instruction German
SWS 0
ECTS Credits 3
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this module, students are familiar with the corporate and social environment, as well as with processes and organizational structure, of small and medium-sized enterprises. They have acquired the capability to work on complex problems under supervision and to independently execute tasks. They have learned to integrate into teams and collaborate across departments or corporate fields.

Superior module:

Work Placement

Module description:

Upon completing this module, students are familiar with the corporate and social environment, as well as with processes and organizational structure, of small and medium-sized enterprises and have gained professional experience.

Course titleSWSECTSTYPE

Bachelor Paper & Coaching Seminar Summer Semester

Semester 6
Academic year 3
Course code KMBB6BB2SE
Type SE
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 1
ECTS Credits 10
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

..

Superior module:

Bachelor Factory 2

Module description:

By drawing up a bachelor thesis, students demonstrate their ability to individually apply scientific methodology and discussion on a task relevant to their field of studies within a set timeframe and to present resulting findings in a clear and structured way. Students understand how to identify the problem content of a task, systemize their thoughts, structure contents, find results by applying appropriate methods and argue their findings in a convincing way.

Cyber Security

Semester 6
Academic year 3
Course code KMBB6CSYIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 1
ECTS Credits 3
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students possess basic knowledge on threat scenarios, as well as on how security measures for IT systems work and how effective they are.

Superior module:

Outlook

Module description:

Upon concluding the degree program, students learn about the changes that will in future coin the business practice of SMEs. They are open towards new economic and societal developments and have shed the blinkers that limit their view to the daily operations and thus have enlarged their action scopes. They understand how to critically reflect so to also recognize blind spots in their own knowledge and skills.

Digital Economy

Semester 6
Academic year 3
Course code KMBB6DIÖIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 1
ECTS Credits 3
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students are aware of and open to societal and economic change. This allows for looking beyond the horizon of daily business and thus enables SMEs to reflect on change. The such achieved action potential considerably increases the scope of alternatives that students can contribute.

Superior module:

Outlook

Module description:

Upon concluding the degree program, students learn about the changes that will in future coin the business practice of SMEs. They are open towards new economic and societal developments and have shed the blinkers that limit their view to the daily operations and thus have enlarged their action scopes. They understand how to critically reflect so to also recognize blind spots in their own knowledge and skills.

Graduation Exam

Semester 6
Academic year 3
Course code KMBB6BAPBP
Type BP
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 0
ECTS Credits 0
Examination character final

Lecture content:

Graduation Exam

Superior module:

Graduation Exam

Module description:

...

New Business Models & Responsibility

Semester 6
Academic year 3
Course code KMBB6NBVIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 1
ECTS Credits 3
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students are familiar with the concept of new business models. They understand that these businesses - typically SMEs or owner-managed companies - are not merely profit oriented. They know that sustainability can be integrated in the value proposition, overall performance and value creation. Based on this understanding, students can derive management challenges and know how to achieve economic success, as well as non-monetary added value for the regional environment.

Superior module:

Outlook

Module description:

Upon concluding the degree program, students learn about the changes that will in future coin the business practice of SMEs. They are open towards new economic and societal developments and have shed the blinkers that limit their view to the daily operations and thus have enlarged their action scopes. They understand how to critically reflect so to also recognize blind spots in their own knowledge and skills.

SME Promotion

Semester 6
Academic year 3
Course code KMBB6MSFIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 1
ECTS Credits 2
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students are familiar with the Austrian and the regional start-up and company establishment infrastructure, as well as the varieties of SME promotion. They are capable to avoid common mistakes in applications thus reducing search or information costs.

Superior module:

Regional Contexts

Module description:

Students acquire a deep understanding of the regio-economic allocation of resources and the interdependence between entrepreneurial action (cooperation, networks) and their regio-economic and/or global implications. They are familiar with a range of analytical concepts and theories in this context, which allow to model the manifold relations to SMEs in order to be able to anticipate the reactions to the SMEs` own behavior. Upon completing this course, students are able to interpret economic developments in such way that allows them to anticipate rather than just passively tolerate the impacts of global or regio-economic changes for SMEs. They have acquired the tools to analyze the strategic interdependence of economic agents. They are familiar with the signifi-cance of regional capital for business success and understand how relevant it is for the company's management to be regionally embedded in the agent system. Equally, they are aware of opportunities of SME promotion.

SMEs & the Region

Semester 6
Academic year 3
Course code KMBB6KURIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 4
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students are aware of the profound significance of SMEs being embedded in the regional economy. These regional ties of SMEs are a key success factor and have experienced a considerable surge in theoretical consideration in comparison to globalization. Students understand that especially the social capital tied up in cluster commons, as well as the multiple informal institutions, promote not only regional but also SME growth.

Superior module:

Regional Contexts

Module description:

Students acquire a deep understanding of the regio-economic allocation of resources and the interdependence between entrepreneurial action (cooperation, networks) and their regio-economic and/or global implications. They are familiar with a range of analytical concepts and theories in this context, which allow to model the manifold relations to SMEs in order to be able to anticipate the reactions to the SMEs` own behavior. Upon completing this course, students are able to interpret economic developments in such way that allows them to anticipate rather than just passively tolerate the impacts of global or regio-economic changes for SMEs. They have acquired the tools to analyze the strategic interdependence of economic agents. They are familiar with the signifi-cance of regional capital for business success and understand how relevant it is for the company's management to be regionally embedded in the agent system. Equally, they are aware of opportunities of SME promotion.

Socio-economic Agents Systems

Semester 6
Academic year 3
Course code KMBB6SAKIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 2
ECTS Credits 3
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students understand the relevance of formal and informal institutions, of networks and cooperation as a basis for business success. They are able to reflect on the agent-specific social and economic coherences and derive criteria for business practice.

Superior module:

Regional Contexts

Module description:

Students acquire a deep understanding of the regio-economic allocation of resources and the interdependence between entrepreneurial action (cooperation, networks) and their regio-economic and/or global implications. They are familiar with a range of analytical concepts and theories in this context, which allow to model the manifold relations to SMEs in order to be able to anticipate the reactions to the SMEs` own behavior. Upon completing this course, students are able to interpret economic developments in such way that allows them to anticipate rather than just passively tolerate the impacts of global or regio-economic changes for SMEs. They have acquired the tools to analyze the strategic interdependence of economic agents. They are familiar with the signifi-cance of regional capital for business success and understand how relevant it is for the company's management to be regionally embedded in the agent system. Equally, they are aware of opportunities of SME promotion.

Trends in HR Management & Organization Development

Semester 6
Academic year 3
Course code KMBB6HROIL
Type IL
Kind Compulsory
Language of instruction German
SWS 1
ECTS Credits 2
Examination character immanent

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing this course, students are able to assess and proactively react to trends in human resource management and the development of organization and cooperation forms in SMEs based on a profound understanding of the past.

Superior module:

Outlook

Module description:

Upon concluding the degree program, students learn about the changes that will in future coin the business practice of SMEs. They are open towards new economic and societal developments and have shed the blinkers that limit their view to the daily operations and thus have enlarged their action scopes. They understand how to critically reflect so to also recognize blind spots in their own knowledge and skills.

Legend
SemesterSemesters 1, 3, 5: courses held only in winter semester (mid-September to end of January), Semesters 2, 4, 6: courses held only in summer semester (mid-February to end of June)
SWSweekly contact hours over 14 weeks in semester (example SWS 2 equals 28 contact hours for the whole course
ECTS CreditsWork load in ECTS credits, 1 ECTS credit equals an estimated 25 hours of work for the student
TypeBP = Bachelor final exam
DP/MP = Master final exam
IL = Lecture with integrated project work
IT = Individual training/phases
LB = Lab (session)
PS = Pro-seminar
PT = Project
RC = Course with integrated reflective practice
RE = Revision course
SE = Seminar
TU = Tutorial
UB = Practice session/Subject practical sessions
VO = Lecture