Small Enterprise Promotion and Training
Ritterstraße 26 04109 Leipzig Germany, Germany
Master of Business Administration in Small Enterprise Promotion and Training (SEPT)
University of Leipzig
Business Administration & SME Development
Program Overview: MBA in Small Enterprise Promotion and Training
The SEPT MBA at the University of Leipzig uniquely combines professional management of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with the perspectives of business and economic development. It provides a thorough understanding of management as the foundation for leadership positions in the private sector and especially in institutions and organisations involved in business development and foreign assistance.
This international program is designed for academically qualified professionals with relevant work experience who operate in developing and emerging economies. The curriculum draws on the lessons of Germany's successful Mittelstand model and applies them to global SME promotion, entrepreneurship, and innovation strategies.
With a yearly intake of approximately 30 students, around 90% of whom come from outside Germany, the SEPT MBA fosters a diverse and international learning environment. The program is structured around two semesters of formal tuition, an optional internship in Germany or Europe, a research project in the participant's home country, and a final thesis semester.
Key Program Highlights
- Recognized as one of Germany's top 10 international master's programs by DAAD, with a special focus on SME development worldwide
- Real-world case studies from SMEs globally, taught by a blend of resident academics and visiting industry consultants
- Double degree options available with Hanoi University of Science and Technology and Vietnamese-German University
- Access to SEPneT, an international alumni network connecting graduates with collaboration and project opportunities across the globe
Curriculum & Modules
The SEPT MBA follows a modular structure across four semesters, combining theoretical foundations with application-oriented findings and practice-relevant experience. Formal training at the university is assessed through written exams, essays, oral examinations, or project reports, and the program concludes with a Master's thesis.
This foundational module covers core economic principles and development theory, providing students with the analytical framework needed to understand SME ecosystems in developing and transition economies.
Students explore the specific challenges and opportunities of managing small and medium-sized enterprises, including organisational structures, human resource management, and operational strategies tailored to SME contexts.
This module addresses innovation, value chains, and sustainable marketing strategies for SME development. It includes a field trip to German development and business promotion institutions.
Students examine the role of SMEs in local and regional economic systems, exploring policy frameworks, institutional environments, and strategies for fostering enterprise growth at the community level.
This module equips students with analytical skills and research methodologies needed for their third-semester field research project, including project planning, data collection, and development of complex research questions.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
The SEPT MBA is designed for academically qualified professionals with relevant experience in SME promotion, entrepreneurship, or economic development. Applicants should demonstrate a strong motivation to contribute to SME development in their home countries. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on your application.
Academic Requirements
- Academic QualificationA university degree at least at Bachelor's level (minimum four-year program or 180 ECTS) from a recognized university in economics, social sciences, natural sciences, or engineering
- Professional ExperienceAt least two years of relevant professional experience in areas such as SME promotion, business development, entrepreneurship, or related fields
- Knowledge BaseBroad knowledge of economic issues and demonstrated interest in SME development and entrepreneurship
- Maximum AgeApplicants should generally be no older than 35 years at the time of application
- Additional RequirementsApplicants from China, Mongolia, and Vietnam must supply an APS Certificate; Nigerian and Cameroonian applicants require embassy-certified documents
Language Requirements
- TOEFL iBTMinimum 79-80 (Internet-based)
- IELTS AcademicMinimum 6.0 overall band score
- AlternativeEnglish proficiency letter accepted if undergraduate instruction was in English; TOEFL ITP, TOEFL TOEIC, and IELTS General Training are not accepted
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
The SEPT MBA program offers several funding opportunities, particularly for professionals from developing countries. The program is mainly sponsored by the DAAD, and additional scholarship options may be available depending on your country of origin and professional background. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on funding options suitable for your profile.
DAAD EPOS Scholarship
Fully funded (tuition waiver, monthly stipend of approx. EUR 934, travel costs, health insurance, and possible family allowance)The DAAD Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS) scholarship is the primary funding source for SEPT MBA students from developing countries. It covers all essential expenses for the full program duration, including tuition fee waiver, living allowance, round-trip airfare, and comprehensive insurance.
Dr. Martin Blank – SYB Scholarship
This scholarship supports qualified candidates pursuing the SEPT MBA with a focus on Start Your Business (SYB) training and entrepreneurship development. Eligibility criteria and award amounts may vary by intake year.
Leadership for Africa Scholarships
Master's degree scholarships available for applicants from selected African countries including Burundi, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, Cameroon, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Niger, and Senegal. These scholarships support study in Germany with a focus on leadership development.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
The SEPT MBA prepares graduates for leadership and decision-making positions in SME promotion, business development, and entrepreneurship across developing and transition economies. Graduates are equipped to work as multipliers providing support to small and medium-sized businesses while promoting innovative entrepreneurs and sustainable economic growth.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employing Organizations
Rankings & Recognition
The University of Leipzig, founded in 1409, is one of the oldest universities in the world and the second oldest in Germany. It is consistently featured among the top global universities across multiple ranking systems. The SEPT MBA program itself has received special recognition as one of Germany's top 10 international master's programs by the DAAD.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Business & Economics | DAAD Quality Label | Top 10 International Master's Programs in Germany |
| Liberal Arts & Social Sciences | EduRank | #323 Worldwide |
| Communication & Media Studies | QS Subject Rankings | #101 |
| Program Accreditation | ZEvA / Accreditation Council | Fully Accredited |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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