What is the MBA&E Life Science Management Program at HTW Berlin?

The MBA&E Life Science Management (LSM) program at HTW Berlin is a full-time, 18-month, English-taught master’s degree that combines business administration with life sciences. Designed for professionals in Biotech, Pharma, Medtech, Digital Health and Healthcare seeking to work in Management Positions. It prepares graduates for Strategic, Leadership, and Management roles such as Project Management across the international life sciences industry. Check out the LSM brochure for more information.

The LSM program stands apart through its interdisciplinary focus, delivered by a faculty of life industry experts, including regulatory authorities, intellectual property specialists, and biotech engineers. It is deeply embedded in Berlin, Germany’s Health Capital through a thriving life sciences ecosystem and uniquely blends classroom learning with practical exposure through its Company Engagement Program, ISPE Student Chapter, industry partners and active alumni network.

Who is this program designed for?

• Graduates or professionals with a background in life sciences, biotechnology, pharmaceutics, medicine, or related fields.
• Individuals seeking leadership roles in business development, regulatory affairs, digital health, or healthcare management.
• PhD holders aiming to move from academic or lab-based roles into strategic and managerial positions.
• If you’re looking to transition from scientific or technical expertise into industry leadership, this program is designed for you.

Is this program suitable for PhD holders? 

Yes. The LSM program is an excellent fit for PhD graduates from the life sciences who wish to move from research-focused roles into strategic, management, or commercial functions. The curriculum provides business knowledge and industry-specific insights that complement a strong academic or technical background, preparing graduates for leadership positions across the healthcare and life sciences sectors.

How does this program differ from a traditional MSc or MBA program?

A traditional MSc in the life sciences is typically research-oriented, with a strong focus on scientific or technical specialisation. In contrast, an MBA provides broad business training, but usually without focus on a specific industry. 

The MBA&E Life Science Management program differs in that, it is tailored specifically for the life sciences sector. It is designed for students who already have a background in science or healthcare and wish to move into management, commercial, or business roles. The program offers targeted knowledge of the life sciences industry and provides a bridge between scientific expertise and business leadership.

What career opportunities are available after graduation? 

Graduates of the MBA&E Life Science Management program go on to work in senior and strategic roles across the global life sciences industry, including in biotech, pharma, med-tech, digital health, biopharma, and healthcare services. Whether, in multinational corporations, SMEs, or startups, career opportunities span both scientific and business domains. 

Career opportunities focus areas include Business Development, Strategy, Regulatory Affairs, Market Access, Product and Project Management, Operations, Innovation or R&D Management, Consulting, and Sustainability. Many graduates also become entrepreneurs, launching startups in biotech or health tech.

What types of job functions does this degree prepare me for?

The program prepares students for high-impact roles across the life sciences value chain. 

Typical job functions include:

Product Manager (Biotech, Pharma, Med-Tech), Project Manager (Clinical, R&D, Tech Transfer), Business Analyst / Strategist, Business Development Manager, Digital Health Strategist, AI in Healthcare Consultant, Regulatory Affairs Manager or Specialist, Market Access Analyst or Specialist, Medical Science Liaison (MSL), Marketing Manager, Quality & Compliance Lead, Supply Chain and Operations Manager, Startup Founder in biotech, med-tech, or digital health, Sustainability or ESG Consultant in healthcare industries.

Graduates are equipped to navigate the intersection of science, business, regulation, and innovation, ideal for leadership roles in the rapidly evolving life sciences landscape.

Where do alumni work after graduation? 

Our graduates are employed by major organisations, SMEs  and innovative startups like BioNTech, Roche, Bayer, Sanofi, Pfizer, ThermoFisher, Fresenius, Merck, Novartis, Novo Nordisk, Baxter, Otsuka Pharmaceuticals, Capgemini, PWC, KPMG, and a wide range of health tech startups and consultancies. Over 96% of graduates receive a full-time job offer within 3 months of graduating.

Does the program offer industry exposure and networking opportunities?

Yes. Practical experience is a core component of the curriculum. Students engage in case studies, group projects, and guest lectures by industry professionals from pharmaceuticals, regulatory affairs, med-tech, biotech, and digital health sectors. The program also has a Company Engagement Program. The master’s thesis is often carried out in collaboration with a company, allowing students to apply their skills and gain work experience.

Over 90% of students gain additional professional experience during the program via internships, research roles, or company-based thesis projects.

Networking opportunities are also embedded throughout the program. Students benefit from HTW Berlin’s ISPE Student Chapter (International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering), a strong alumni network, and Berlin’s wider healthcare innovation ecosystem.

Is the program suitable for international students?

Yes! The program is fully taught in English  and welcomes students from diverse academic, professional, and cultural backgrounds. HTW Berlin offers support with visas, housing information, free intensive German language classes and integration into student life in Berlin.

What kind of visa do I need to study in Germany?

International students will typically apply for a German student visa (or a student applicant visa, depending on the country). HTW Berlin provides support with visa-related documents, including your admission letter and proof of enrollment. 

Can I stay and work in Germany after graduating?

Yes. Upon completing the program, international graduates are eligible to apply for an 18-month job-seeking visa, which allows them to remain in Germany to find qualified employment in their field of study. Given the high demand for professionals in pharma, biotech, med-tech, and digital health, this represents a significant opportunity. Many of the LSM graduates transition directly into full-time roles in Germany or the broader EU.

Is German required for the program or to find employment?

German is not required for admission or participation in the program, which is taught entirely in English. However, proficiency in German can be helpful for living and working in Germany. Free intensive German classes are offered to all students to support integration and future career opportunities.

Is HTW Berlin a recognised University?

Yes. HTW Berlin (Hochschule für Technik und Wirtschaft Berlin) is a fully accredited public University of Applied Sciences in Germany. Its degrees are internationally recognised and aligned with the European Higher Education Area (Bologna Process). Since 2021, HTW Berlin has received top university ratings from German employers and maintains quality assurance under the EHEA and EQUAR frameworks.

What is the difference between a "Hochschule" and a "Universität" in Germany? Does it affect my degree's value?

A Hochschule (University of Applied Sciences) like HTW Berlin focuses on applied, practice-oriented education. In contrast, a Universität often emphasizes theoretical or academic research. Degrees from both are equally recognized and valid, particularly at the master's level. The Master of Business Administration & Engineering Life Science Management degree is fully accredited and meets the standards required for international recognition.

How much does the program cost?

Tuition fee: €16,000 (payable in 3 main instalments)

Semester fee: approximately €360 per semester (includes public transportation, administrative costs, and access to university services)

Why is this program affordable compared to US or UK MBA programs?

HTW Berlin is a public university. As a public institution, the university is able to offer high-quality education at significantly lower tuition costs than private or international institutions. Tuition fees are kept accessible as part of Germany’s broader commitment to publicly supported higher education. The program is internationally accredited, taught in English, and delivered by experienced faculty with strong industry backgrounds. Graduates earn a master’s degree that is fully recognized under the European Higher Education Area (EHEA).

Are scholarships or funding options available?

Yes. Students can apply for the LSM Professional Enhancement Grant as well as other scholarships available in Germany, such as DAAD scholarships. HTW Berlin provides guidance to students on finding and applying for suitable funding.

What are the admission requirements?

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• A first academic degree e.g. a Bachelor's or equivalent
• at least one year of relevant professional experience
• proof of English language proficiency such as TOEFL, IELTS or equivalent

Applicants with backgrounds in life sciences, healthcare, biotechnology, or related technical or business fields are encouraged to apply.

Do I need a GMAT or GRE score?

No. The GMAT or GRE is not required for admission.

Can I apply without a background in life sciences?

Yes. Applicants from related technical, health, or business fields may be considered, especially if they demonstrate relevant experience and strong motivation in their application.

When is the application deadline?

The priority deadline is February 28 each year. Applications are submitted through the LSM Online Application Portal, apply here.

What documents are required?

• academic degree certificate(s) and transcripts
• proof of relevant work experience
• proof of English language proficiency
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Motivation Letter (LOM)

Why should I study in Berlin? 

Berlin is Germany’s “Health Capital” and one of Europe’s most dynamic life sciences hubs. It offers a growing ecosystem of biotech firms, med-tech companies, hospitals, research institutions, and startups. The city is known for its international community, high quality of life, and affordable cost of living compared to other major European capitals.

Still have questions? Reach out to us directly:

Email: admissions-lsm@htw-berlin.de

Website: lsm.htw-berlin.de

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