The Deputy Scientific Director of the International Graduate Center, Prof. Dr. med. Christian Schuchardt, was available to the business newspaper for a detailed interview. The questions were asked by Jeanette Simon-Lahrichi. We summarize the most important points.
Prof. Dr. Christian Schuchardt
In the development of master programs, Bremen University of Applied Sciences pioneered Germany as early as the mid-1990s? Why?
In fact, some colleagues at the University of Bremen have already developed master's programs, as they did not even exist in Germany. The university has always been very international. With the increasing number of international degree courses and the growing global network, it seemed sensible and necessary to establish these degrees in Bremen as well.
Why is it so important that international degrees such as the Bachelor's and Master's degrees are also offered in Germany?
The traditional German diploma was difficult to classify and evaluate, especially in the Anglo-American language area. The new system should create uniform degrees that can be understood and compared internationally.
Bachelor, Master, MBA - how to classify these degrees today?
There are different levels of competence, each achieved at the different levels. The Bachelor is the first professional qualification. Building on this, a Master can be completed. Afterwards there is the possibility to do a traditional doctor.
For whom is the MBA degree interesting?
There is often a need in industry for management know-how for people who have not studied business administration. For example, as science advances within the company, scientists and humanities graduate in positions where they need business knowledge. An MBA program prepares these professionals to take on management and leadership roles, often laying the groundwork for the next step in their careers, away from specialist careers and towards leadership. Many start with one or two career stages during the program or immediately after graduation. Such a further education is thus to be regarded as an investment in the professional future.
What speaks for a further education at the IGC?
We have successfully offered Master's and MBA programs for over twelve years. That means we have a lot of experience in teaching and organization. We also understand the needs of part-time students, who often have to combine work, education and family. We help you as far as possible to manage this.
How do you promote the compatibility of MBA studies with work and family?
In fact, this is the biggest challenge for many program participants. It has been shown that the lesson rhythm on Monday, Friday and Saturday evenings is very practicable. During the semester break in spring and summer, students have the opportunity to take a breath and work on or after work.
Profile of the International Graduate Center:
The International Graduate Center (IGC) is the central institution for postgraduate studies and scientific further education at the University of Bremen. More than 1,000 graduates from over 80 nations worldwide have completed a master's program at the IGC. The IGC is thus one of the internationally most successful graduate schools in Germany. As part of the Bremen University of Applied Sciences, the IGC stands for tradition and quality in the offered master's programs.
