About us
Shaping the Future: Insights and Perspectives for the Job Market of the Future

A University for the Workforce of Tomorrow
CBS University of Applied Sciences offers practice-oriented teaching concepts that prepare students specifically for the demands of the job market.
As a digital presence university, it combines on-campus lectures, online formats, and independent study into a flexible and multimedia learning environment. With around 1,300 corporate partners and personalised career support, the university facilitates an optimal career start.
The study programmes focus on future-oriented fields, offering versatile career opportunities in growing industries.

Benefits at a glance
With around 4,000 students across eight locations, CBS University of Applied Sciences is one of Germany’s leading private universities. Its study portfolio covers business, social sciences, education, and health – available in full-time, dual, or part-time formats.
Education That Makes an Impact
We believe in education that transforms, connects, and drives progress. With a new approach to higher education, strong partnerships, and practice-based learning, we empower, encourage, and inspire individuals to actively and responsibly shape their future as part of a dynamic community.
Tradition meets innovation
CBS University of Applied Sciences was founded in 1993 as Cologne Business School in Cologne. Since then, much has changed! Our guiding principle, "Creating Tomorrow," has shaped the university’s entire history. We were early to recognise emerging trends, introduced the American bachelor’s degree model in Germany, and in 2018 became the first German university to receive international IACBE accreditation.
In 2020, we merged our Cologne, Mainz, and Potsdam campuses under the CBS International Business School brand. In 2022, we expanded our portfolio to include dual management degree programmes. Since 2025, we have also integrated the degree programmes of EU|FH Health, Social Sciences, and Education under the CBS University of Applied Sciences umbrella.
As part of the Klett Group, we are one of Germany’s leading education providers.
Frequently Asked Questions about CBS University of Applied Sciences
What study programmes are offered at CBS University of Applied Sciences?
CBS University of Applied Sciences offers Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes across four academic fields: business, social sciences, health, and education. Study formats include full-time, dual, and part-time options. Under the sub-brand CBS International Business School, the university bundles its internationally oriented business programmes (including MBA) as well as the preparatory programme Prep4University.
How many campuses does CBS have?
CBS University of Applied Sciences operates across ten campuses in Germany. The main campus is located in Cologne, where CBS International Business School is also based.
Is CBS state-recognised and accredited?
Yes. CBS University of Applied Sciences is state-recognised and system-accredited. Its programmes are accredited by FIBAA, the German Council of Science and Humanities, and the Accreditation Council. In addition, it became the first German university to receive international accreditation from IACBE in 2018.
How many students are enrolled at CBS?
Currently, around 4,000 students are enrolled at CBS University of Applied Sciences, across ten campuses and various study formats.
Which organisation does CBS belong to?
Since 2016, CBS University of Applied Sciences has been part of the Klett Group, one of the largest private education providers in Germany. The group brings together numerous universities and education brands.
What degrees can I earn at CBS?
The university offers Bachelor’s degrees (BA, BSc) and Master’s degrees (MA, MSc, MBA). CBS International Business School also provides a preparatory programme (Prep4University) to obtain a university entrance qualification.
What makes studying at CBS unique?
CBS University of Applied Sciences combines academic excellence with strong practical integration. With over 1,300 corporate partners, small class sizes, and personalised career support, students benefit from a close connection between study and the working world. As a digitally integrated on-campus university, CBS combines in-person teaching with digital formats and guided self-study to create an innovative, multimedia learning experience.
In which languages are the programmes taught?
Most programmes at CBS University of Applied Sciences are taught in German. CBS International Business School complements the portfolio with English-taught Bachelor’s, Master’s, and MBA programmes.




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