Study in Germany and Work in Consulting: What Degrees Do You Need?

If you're a business student exploring career options, consulting might be one of the top choices on your list. Consulting companies in Germany are known for hiring smart, driven individuals who can solve complex problems and communicate clearly. But what degrees are they actually looking for? And how can international students land a consulting job in Germany?

This guide will walk you through:

• Why studying in Germany is a smart move for aspiring consultants

• What consulting firms in Germany do

• The most in-demand degrees for consulting roles

• What consulting firms expect from international applicants

• Popular companies hiring in Germany

Why Study in Germany if You Want to Work in Consulting?

Germany is not only one of Europe’s largest economies but also home to some of the world’s top consulting firms and multinational companies. Studying in Germany gives you:

• Access to top-ranked German universities and public universities in Germany

• Opportunities to intern or work part-time at consulting firms

• A strong alumni network is often connected with global firms

• Exposure to real-world case studies and client projects during your study program

• Affordable or tuition-free education at public universities

Germany is known for its world-class education and strong career prospects, especially for international students. The German education system also offers many English-language programs, making it easier for students from different countries to adapt. If you're planning to study in Germany, it’s a great place to build your future career.

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What Do Consulting Companies in Germany Do?

Consulting companies in Germany offer advice and solutions to businesses across different areas. These firms may specialize in:

• Management consulting – helping companies with strategy, operations, or organization

• IT consulting – focusing on technology, digital tools, and software systems

• Financial consulting – supporting clients with budgets, audits, and cost-saving ideas

Firms work with both German and international clients. So, learning the German language can be a big advantage. Knowing English is necessary, but speaking German helps you connect better in many companies.

What Degrees Do German Consulting Firms Prefer?

Many types of degrees can lead to a job in consulting, but some are more popular with employers:

1. Business Administration / Management

A common and preferred degree. It teaches you how companies run and includes group projects, internships, and presentations.

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2. Economics

This degree is great for students who enjoy analyzing data and understanding market behavior. It’s useful in strategy and financial consulting roles.

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3. Psychology (Organizational / Industrial Psychology)

Yes, psychology! Especially if you focus on how people behave at work. You can help with leadership, team building, and employee management.

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4. Engineering or Computer Science

This is perfect for tech consulting jobs if you enjoy solving technical problems or working with IT systems.

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5. Mathematics or Data Science

These degrees are good for roles that involve data analysis, research, and reporting. You’ll be solving problems using numbers.

Many business degrees in Germany are taught in English, especially at the master's level. This makes it easier for international students to study and build a career.

If you're still deciding which degree to pursue, browse all study programs in Germany that can lead to consulting roles, from business and economics to IT and data science.

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Are There Consulting Jobs for International Students in Germany?

Yes, international students can find consulting jobs in Germany, but it can be competitive. Here’s what helps:

• Good English language skills, and learning German gives you a big boost

• Internship experience during your studies, especially in business or finance

• Strong academic results from a well-known university

• Soft skills like problem-solving, communication, and teamwork

Many international students start with internships or part-time jobs and move into full-time roles after graduation. Your education in Germany already gives you an advantage.

Popular Consulting Companies in Germany

Here are some of the top consulting firms where many students dream to work:

Top Management Consulting Firms

• McKinsey & Company (Germany)

• Boston Consulting Group (BCG)

• Bain & Company

• Roland Berger (a top German consulting firm)

Specialized or Boutique Firms

• Simon-Kucher & Partners

• goetzpartners

• zeb (focused on banking and finance)

IT & Tech Consulting

• Accenture

• Capgemini

• Deloitte Digital

These companies offer entry-level consulting jobs in Germany and often post openings for internships and graduate programs.

How to Improve Your Chances

Here are some simple ways to make yourself a strong candidate:

• Join a student consulting club or business club at your university

• Take extra classes in project management, data analysis, or leadership

• Apply for case competitions and attend career fairs

• Follow companies on LinkedIn and connect with people working there

• Look for advice from German education consultants or your university career center

If you're from India or another non-EU country, be sure to research visa rules and work permits after graduation. Germany gives you time to look for jobs after you have graduated.

Find out more about what your life can look like after graduation in Germany. 

Final Thoughts

Studying in Germany is a smart move if you want to work in consulting. It gives you a strong education, great career prospects, and the chance to work in one of Europe’s leading economies. Many international students come for a master’s degree or even a bachelor's degree and stay to build their careers.

Whether you are interested in business degrees in Germany or looking for consulting jobs for international students in Germany, planning ahead and choosing the right study program will help you succeed.

Find your ideal degree in Germany by taking the StudyBuddy All-in-One Quiz. This quiz gives you study recommendations based on your skills, grades, and study preferences.