The Business School of the University of Mannheim was founded in 1969 and traces its beginnings back to the Department of Economic and Social Sciences which was part of Mannheim's College of Trade. Great names such as Walter Le Coutre and Heinrich Nicklisch helped to establish Mannheim's reputation as a learning center for economics and business. After the Second World War, professors such as Friedrich Heinzel, August Marx, Curt Sandig, and Walter Waffenschmidt ensured that this reputation not only continued but grew.

Today, with 29 fully ordained professors, 3 junior professors, more than 100 additional faculty members, and about 3500 students, the Business School of the University of Mannheim is one of the largest and most renowned business faculties in Europe.

Research and Teaching at the highest international level, consistent quality management, international focus and distinctive practical orientation constitute the focal points of the “Mannheim Philosophy.” The School's high esteem is reflected in the annual number of applications as well as in the number of students enrolled in the programs of the Business School.

In the fall/winter semester of 2006/2007, the studies of business administration were reorganized into the international Bachelor’s/ Master’s system. Since then, about 400 students enroll in one of the degree programs every year. The programs are completed with the academic degree “Bachelor of Science” and prepare the students for the challenges of the business world as well as a consecutive Master’s degree program. Since 2009, as soon as the first Bachelor students had completed their studies, the Business School of the University of Mannheim has been offering Master’s degree programs.

Rankings by news and business magazines constantly list the Business School of the University of Mannheim at the top position. Interviews with HR managers and business professors accompanying these rankings show that, for years, the Business School has been the number one in Germany. As the first, and so far only German institution, the Business School of the University of Mannheim is accredited by AACSB International, by the Association of MBAs (AMBA), and by EFMD (EQUIS), which are the three leading unions of educational institutions in business worldwide.