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GOING ABROAD

Make Münster your starting point

... and the world your next destination.

Going abroad destinations for IMS Master's students at FH Münster

Semester abroad at IMS: requirements & opportunities

Where can your semester abroad take you?

International Marketing and Sales Master's program at FH Münster includes a compulsory exchange semester at one of MSB’s worldwide partner universities.

FH Münster recommends using its partner-university database to explore suitable options, with European exchanges often organised and funded through Erasmus+ and DAAD scholarships and further opportunities available beyond Europe.

Explore partner universities

Before going abroad, students should make sure their courses, language skills and academic plan are in order.

In International Marketing and Sales, the semester abroad should fit the program structure. Students are advised to clarify course recognition before departure so that credits can be transferred properly.

It is also important to review practical steps such as housing, deadlines and any language requirements early enough to avoid stress later on.

How does recognition work?

Recognition of the academic acheivements is meant to make sure your semester abroad fits smoothly into the International Marketing and Sales Master's program.

Through a Learning Agreement you agree in advance which courses you will take and how they will be recognized at FH Münster. If your course selection changes while you are abroad, you should check those changes with the examination board as well.

After you return, the host university’s transcript of records is used to complete the recognition process and validate your acheivements.

Check the recognition process

What if a semester abroad is not possible?

In case a semester abroad is not possible, IMS offers an international project study as an alternative. This lets students still gain international experience and work on an approved project in an international context - an Internship abroad or in Germany for international students.

Consequently, the IMS Master's program remains flexible while keeping the global perspective and international experience.

Explore the international project option

Why is the semester abroad worth it?

The semester abroad gives students more than a change of location - it builds the kind of international experience employers value.

Living and studying in another academic environment helps students strengthen interpersonal skills such as: independence, adaptability, intercultural communication and confidence, all of which are useful in careers in international marketing and sales.

It also gives them real context for working with different markets, cultures, people and ways of thinking, which can make them more prepared for global roles after graduation.

Explore real experiences from abroad

Study abroad experiences from IMS students

Annica collage from semester abroad in Montpellier, France
Annica in Montpellier — IAE Montpellier / Université de Montpellier

"My semester abroad in Montpellier was one of the most enriching experiences of my studies. Over six months at EAE Montpellier and the Université de Montpellier, I not only developed academically, but also learned how to live, study, and grow in a new cultural environment.

What made the experience especially valuable was the combination of strong support and real independence. FH Münster helped me prepare well before departure, so the practical steps felt manageable and I could focus on the experience itself. Once I arrived in Montpellier, the host institution made it easy to settle in, and I quickly felt welcome in an international academic setting.

Montpellier itself was a wonderful place to live. The city has a lively student atmosphere, beautiful streets, and a strong French identity that made everyday life feel exciting and authentic. What I appreciated most was how much I learned outside the classroom: I became more confident in using French, more open in intercultural situations, and more aware of how different academic and social routines can be from one country to another.

At the university, I was exposed to new teaching styles and a different perspective on learning. That experience pushed me to adapt, participate more actively, and think more independently. At the same time, it showed me that studying abroad is not only about academic content, but also about developing flexibility, curiosity, and confidence.

Looking back, this semester abroad had a lasting impact on me because it strengthened both my personal and professional development. It gave me memories, skills, and perspectives that I know will stay with me far beyond my time in France.

For incoming students, my advice is simple: embrace the unfamiliar, be open to people and experiences, and make the most of every opportunity, because a semester abroad can truly shape the way you see yourself and the world."

Kristina collage from semester abroad in Busan, South Korea
Kristina in Busan - Pusan National University, South Korea

"My semester abroad at Pusan National University in Busan was a truly eye-opening experience that combined academic learning, cultural discovery, and personal growth. Spending six months in South Korea gave me the chance to step into a completely different environment, experience a new way of studying, and learn how much you grow when you leave your comfort zone.

What made the experience especially valuable was the support I received from both FH Münster and Pusan National University. FH Münster helped me prepare well before departure, so I felt confident about the practical steps, the academic expectations, and the transition into a new country. Once I arrived in Busan, the host university was welcoming and supportive, which made it much easier to settle in and focus on both my studies and everyday life.

Busan itself impressed me from the very beginning. It is a city where modern life, university energy, and the sea come together in a really unique way. I loved how much there was to discover, from the busy city atmosphere to the calmer moments by the coast. Living there taught me how to appreciate a culture that values respect, discipline, and community, while also being incredibly dynamic and forward-looking.

Academically, the semester helped me understand a different study culture, where structure, commitment, and group awareness played an important role. That experience changed the way I think about learning and collaboration. Culturally, I learned to be more observant, more adaptable, and more open to communication styles that are different from my own. These are lessons that I know will stay with me long after my return.

Looking back, my semester abroad in Busan had a beautiful impact on me because it gave me more than just international experience. It strengthened my confidence, expanded my perspective, and showed me how valuable it is to live and study in a completely different environment.

For incoming students, I would say: be curious, stay open, and trust that the experience will shape you in ways you cannot fully expect at the beginning."

Yara collage from semester abroad in Kristiansand, Norway
Yara in Kristiansand - University of Agder

"My semester abroad at the University of Agder in Kristiansand was one of the most formative experiences of my studies. Over six months, I gained not only academic input from a different university system, but also a deeper understanding of Norwegian culture, everyday life, and what it means to study and live independently in a new environment.

What made this experience especially valuable was the combination of strong support and real personal freedom. FH Münster prepared me well before departure, so I felt confident about the practical steps, the academic expectations, and the transition into life abroad. Once I arrived in Kristiansand, the University of Agder welcomed me warmly and made it easy to settle in, both socially and academically.

Kristiansand itself was a beautiful place to live and study. The city felt calm, open, and close to nature, which made it easy to focus on both my studies and my personal development. I especially appreciated the Norwegian way of balancing efficiency with a relaxed and respectful atmosphere. That gave me a new perspective on how learning and working can feel in a different cultural context.

During my semester abroad, I learned to be more independent, adaptable, and confident in unfamiliar situations. I also became more aware of cultural differences in communication, study habits, and everyday interactions. Looking back, I can say that the experience changed me in a lasting way and gave me skills and memories that will stay with me far beyond my degree.

For incoming students, my advice is to be open, say yes to new experiences, and trust that your semester abroad will challenge you in the best possible way. It is not just a semester away from home - it is a chance to grow academically, personally, and interculturally."

Max collage from semester abroad in Cape Town, South Africa
Max in Cape Town - University of Cape Town

"My semester abroad at the University of Cape Town was an unforgettable experience that combined academic challenge, cultural depth, and personal growth. Over six months, I studied in one of the most inspiring university settings I have ever experienced, and I came back with a much broader view of the world, myself, and what international learning can be.

What made the experience especially meaningful was the support I received from both FH Münster and the University of Cape Town. FH Münster helped me prepare well before departure, which made the transition feel structured and manageable. Once I arrived in Cape Town, the host university offered a welcoming environment that made it easy to settle in, connect with others, and focus on both academic and everyday life.

Cape Town itself was an incredible place to live and study. The city is full of contrasts, energy, and diversity, and that made everyday life feel exciting and memorable. I especially appreciated how much I learned from simply being there: from the city’s history and social dynamics to the different perspectives and experiences of the people around me. It was a place that encouraged me to think more deeply and more openly about culture, identity, and responsibility.

Academically, the semester abroad pushed me to engage with new ideas and adapt to a different learning environment. That helped me become more independent, more flexible, and more confident in international settings. At the same time, I learned how important it is to listen carefully, ask questions, and stay open to perspectives that may challenge your own. Looking back, my semester abroad in Cape Town had a lasting impact on me because it changed not only how I study, but also how I see the world.

For incoming students, I would advise to go with curiosity, make the most of the support offered by FH Münster and your host university, and be ready for an experience that will stay with you long after you return."

    Leonard collage from semester abroad in Tampa, USA
Leonard in Tampa - University of Florida

"My semester abroad at the University of South Florida in Tampa was a transformative experience that combined academic growth, cultural discovery, and personal development. Over six months, I gained not only new knowledge in an international classroom, but also the confidence and flexibility that come from living in a completely different environment. 

What made the experience especially valuable was the support I received before and during the exchange. FH Münster helped me prepare for the semester abroad in a structured way, so I felt ready for the academic expectations and practical challenges ahead. Once I arrived in Tampa, the University of South Florida offered a welcoming environment that made it easy to settle in and feel part of the campus community.

The city itself added a lot to the experience. Tampa felt vibrant, diverse, and full of energy, which made everyday life outside the classroom just as exciting as the studies themselves. I especially enjoyed the international atmosphere on campus and the opportunity to meet people from different backgrounds, which made me think more broadly about communication, teamwork, and global business.

Academically, the semester pushed me to participate more actively, work more independently, and adapt to a different learning style. That helped me grow both professionally and personally. I also learned how important it is to stay open-minded, curious, and adaptable when studying abroad, because the biggest lessons often happen outside the lecture hall. My semester in Tampa broadened my perspective, strengthened my intercultural skills, and gave me memories and experiences that I will carry into my future career.

For incoming students, my advice is to embrace the opportunity, use the support available from your host university, and be ready to step into an experience that will shape you in many positive ways."

Does this feel like the kind of experience you are looking for?

If the semester abroad experience within the International Marketing and Sales Master's program matches what you are looking for, you can continue by reviewing the program structure or exploring the application process.