Master of Science in Industrial Economics © metamorworks

Industrial Economics, M.Sc.

Program overview

The Industrial Economics master’s program is dedicated to both advanced economic methods in theoretical and empirical industrial economy and experimental economics. The program particularly focuses on the economic analysis of markets, particularly in the net-based sectors of telecommunications and internet, transport, energy, waste, water/waste water, and health. The following topic areas and issues are of particular interest: competition and regulations, financing and investment, industrial organization, infrastructure policy, planning and ecological effects, and business strategies.

DegreeMaster of Science
Standard period of study 4 semesters
Credit points120
Program start Winter semester
Admission Restricted admission
Language of instruction German

Admission requirements

In order to apply to the Industrial Economics master’s program, you must provide proof of a first university degree in the fields of economics or a related study program.

A study program is considered a related study program when it consists of the following:

  • at least 18 credit points from the field of quantitative methods (e.g. math, statistics, econometrics)
  • at least 18 credit points from the field of microeconomics (e.g. game theory, microeconomics, industrial economics)

The Industrial Economics master’s program is taught in German. If you are applying with a foreign school-leaving certificate, you must provide proof of German skills at a specific level.

As some courses/modules, particularly the compulsory modules, are offered in English, English skills are a prerequisite for admission. Thus, you must provide proof of English skills at the B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages or equivalent.

A ranking list is created for all applicants who fulfill the admission requirements. It weighs both the final grade of your previous degree and awards points based on certain criteria. Up to 100 points are awarded according to the following criteria:

  • 40 points for at least 24 credits in the field of quantitative methods (e.g. math, statistics, econometrics) or 60 points for at least 30 credits in this field
  • 40 points for at least 24 credits in the field of microeconomics (e.g. game theory, microeconomics, industrial economics)

If you have taken these subjects as part of your bachelor’s degree, you will have an easier transition to master’s studies, but they are not a formal requirement for admission.

Program structure

The Industrial Economics master's program curriculum encompasses core courses and advanced courses. Additionally, students complete courses in Markets and Technology and a free choice section. Courses in engineering, natural science, planning, and math can be freely selected to supplement the set curriculum.

There is a proposed course schedule for the Industrial Economics master’s degree program. This is a recommendation for how to complete the degree program within the standard period of study of four semesters. It provides an example of which modules to take in which semesters. While this proposed course schedule is ideal on paper, it is not mandatory. It’s simply an example of how to successfully schedule and shape your studies.

You can find the proposed course schedule in the study and examination regulations. The most current version of the regulationsapplies to applicants.

Content and modules

The master’s degree program in Industrial Economics consists of modules which combine curriculum content on a specific topic and often include various study and teaching formats like lectures, practical tutorials, seminars, and practical projects. Students are required to earn a specific number of credit points and complete certain coursework and assessments in each module.

You can find a module list which offers a current overview of all the modules in TU Berlin’s module transfer system (MTS). In this module database you have an overview of which modules are mandatory for your degree program and which are elective. Detailed module descriptions provide information about the content, learning objectives, participation requirements, workload, type of assessment, and much more.

The module list is based on the study and exam regulations.

To module database

Internships

An internship is not a required component of the Industrial Economics master’s degree program.

Stays abroad

Some parts of the curriculum can be completed through semesters and/or internships abroad. You can find further information on the TU Berlin International Office (study abroad) and Career Service (internships abroad) webpages.

Acquired skills

The Industrial Economics master's study program allows you to create an individual profile tailored towards a specific sector. As a graduate, you are able to use advanced methods to analyze economic problems in network industries and infrastructure markets and provide economic recommendations for action to regulate these markets.

As teaching and research are closely linked in this study program, you will improve your ability to think scientifically and hone your judgment skills. By working with advanced methods of industrial economics, you are able to consider socio-political problem areas, such as gender aspects. Furthermore, you are capable of independently understanding and learning about new problems and assignments. The strong practical relevance of the study program enables you to implement theory into practice and further develop it as well as constructively find solutions in teams with incomplete information and under time constraints.

After your studies

Upon completion of this program you will possess the theoretical and practical skills necessary for a management position. Economists work in almost all sectors of the economy, particularly in industry, trade, services, as well as in organizations, international institutions, and science. The following are potential areas of work:

  • Companies (analysis of markets and sectors, strategic management) in network industries (transport, telecommunications, energy, water/waste water, waste management, health, etc.) and in infrastructure markets
  • Consulting agencies
  • Regulation and competition authorities 
  • Regional planning and environmental authorities
  • Economic management and economic policy (federal and state governments, regional administration) and social, economic and political organizations in a national or international context

Furthermore, the master’s study program provides you with comprehensive advanced theoretical knowledge in economics, equipping you to work in research projects or pursue a doctorate.

Further information & downloads

Guidance and choosing the right degree program: Academic Advising Service

Questions about the degree program: Course Guidance

General questions: Student Info Services

Application and enrollment: Office of Student Affairs - Graduate Admissions

Recognition of previously acquired credits: Examination Board

Counseling and Services