Digital technologies, data and business models are transforming entire industries. In the MSE Business Engineering, you learn to actively shape this transformation by combining technical expertise with business thinking. You develop solutions for complex challenges across the entire value chain – from concept to implementation.
Factsheet
- Degree
Master of Science FHNW in Engineering with specialisation in Business Engineering- Study mode
- Full-time, Part-time/work-study
- Next start
- 20.9.2027
- Teaching language
- English
- Semester fee
- CHF 750 (with residence Switzerland). For all other fees see “fees”.
At a glance
- With the MSE degree in Business Engineering, you are qualified to take on challenging tasks along the value chain of innovative products and services in industry, the service sector or consulting for companies.
- In this practice-oriented program, you will learn how to use digital technologies, quantitative models and data to control, transform and optimize product developments, processes and business models.
- Topics such as innovation, AI, digitalization, sustainable production, logistics and supply chain are part of the program and are applied in practical projects.
- During your studies, you will have the opportunity to delve deeper into your chosen areas of interest and expand your network.
Future prospects
With a Master’s degree in Business Engineering, you shape the digital transformation of organisations. You work at the interface of technology, data and business models and develop solutions for efficient processes, innovative products and new market approaches.
Future areas of work include, for example, business development, quality, risk, technology, and innovation management, as well as production, process and project management.
You implement digitalization and take responsibility for complex processes and business models from material procurement to the finished product, from market analysis to product launch.
Typical career fields:
- Project Manager
- Product Manager
- Supply Chain Manager
- Production Manager
- Quality Manager
- Business Analyst
- Data Analyst
- Innovation Manager
Structure and programme contents
The MSE programme comprises 90 ECTS credits and is clearly structured: you combine solid theoretical foundations with hands-on project work while continuously developing your individual profile. The modular structure allows you to tailor your studies to your professional goals – in close collaboration with experts from academia, industry and research.
The MSE programme comprises 90 ECTS credits:
30 ECTS – Central Theoretical Modules
One-third of the program consists of theory modules coordinated throughout Switzerland.
These modules provide you with a high level of scientific and methodological foundations – together with students from other universities of applied sciences.
30 ECTS – Specialization and Complementary Courses
The core of the MSE is your individual, specialized focus at the Institute for Business Engineering FHNW.
From day one, your personal advisor will support you in finding suitable theoretical modules and topics for specific research or industry projects.
Throughout the program, you will attend specific complementary courses (EVA / 6 ECTS) in consultation with your advisor.
30 ECTS – Master's Thesis
Finally, you will work on a complex practical case study.
Your independent master's thesis will demonstrate your ability to analyze problems systematically and develop and implement innovative solutions.
The MSE profile Business Engineering is offered at the following institutes
The School of Engineering and Environment FHNW offers the following MSE profiles
Further MSE profiles at FHNW
School of Architecture, Civil Engineering and Geomatics FHNW
School of Computer Science FHNW
Organisational matters
How to get started in your studies
Get informed: Contact the profile coordinator or a potential advisor early on
Apply: Submit your application for the MSE programme
Admission: The admissions committee reviews your application and decides on your acceptance
Define your study agreement: After admission, you define your Individual Study Agreement (ISA) together with your advisor – including profile, modules and project work
Here you will find further information and important documents about the MSE program:
Language
The language of instruction is English. We recommend a minimum level of B2, ideally C1, according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
The specialisation can also be completed in English. German language skills are not required.
Study full-time or part-time
You can complete the MSE either full-time (3 semesters) or part-time. Flexible part-time models are possible – for example in combination with a professional role or project-based employment.
Example full-time model: 3 semesters with an even distribution of modules, with the Master’s thesis in the final semester.
Example part-time model: Extension to 5–6 semesters with an adjusted workload per semester.
Study structure for full-time (example in German):
Study structure for part-time (example - in German):
Fees
Semester fee Switzerland: CHF 750
Semester fee EU/EFTA*: CHF 1,000
Semester fee non-EU/EFTA**: CHF 5,000
Enrolment fee: CHF 200 (one-time)
Materials & licences: CHF 100 per semester
Leave of absence semester: CHF 100
Graduation fee: CHF 300
*The determining factor is the civil law residence prior to the start of studies in accordance with Art. 23 para. 1 of the Swiss Civil Code.
** Applies to students with a residence permit without gainful employment.
Dates
- Spring semester: application deadline end of September (previous year)
- Autumn semester: application deadline end of April (current year)
Downloads / further Informationen
Here you will find further information and important documents about the MSE program:
Contact us
Contact
Prof. Dr. Esther Gelle
- Phone
- +41 56 202 84 27
- esther.gelle@fhnw.ch
Application
MSE Profile Business EngineeringMaster of Science in Engineering MSE
- Date
- 20.9.2027
- Place
- FHNW Campus Brugg-Windisch
- Final application date
- 30.4.2027