University of applied sciences or university

The first universities of applied sciences in Austria were established in the 1990s. A degree from a university of applied sciences is equivalent to a degree from a university but universities of applied sciences offer scientifically-founded and practically-focused higher education.

Anyone who has completed a Bachelor’s degree at a university of applied sciences is entitled to undertake a Master’s degree at a university of applied sciences or a university – and vice versa. The successful completion of a Master’s degree allows graduates to pursue an academic career at a university: Master’s graduates from universities of applied sciences also meet the admission requirements for doctoral studies in a relevant subject.

#1 Theory and practice

Thanks to an approach of practical relevance and vocational focus, students begin to learn from day one how to apply their knowledge in a professional setting. The lecturers are experts in their field and share skills from the practical environment with the students.

A range of projects and the internship provides students with the opportunity to network and establish important contacts with companies for their future career. They can also combine work and study: FH JOANNEUM offers several forms of study: full-time, part-time, work-friendly or co-operative.

#2 Fixed duration of study

The curriculum is stipulated by the university of applied sciences and is very well organised: an in-person attendance rate of min. 80% is required at lectures, exercises and seminars. In this way, students can complete their studies within the minimum study period.

#3 Studying together

Thanks to the limited number of study places, contact between students and lecturers is more personal at universities of applied sciences and a fixed place is guaranteed for students in all exercises, seminars and laboratories. It is normally the case that all students in a year group attend classes together – solidarity and team spirit play a key role.
In the event of any questions or issues, the lecturers and the degree programme staff are on hand to help. FH JOANNEUM is also committed to equal opportunities: diversity and equality are a priority here.

#4 Cross-curricular and interdisciplinary

All Bachelor’s and Master’s courses at FH JOANNEUM place great emphasis on social skills in addition to methodology and specialist expertise: English, intercultural skills, project management and communication are all integral parts of the course. Work also takes place in a cross-curricular and interdisciplinary manner, one example of which is the successful Formula Student Team Joanneum Racing Graz.

#5 Think global

FH JOANNEUM trains its students not just for Austria but for the international market. Internationalisation is an important component and FH JOANNEUM maintains intensive relationships with over 300 partner universities.

Each year, some 300 students spend a semester abroad and at the same time, we also welcome students from all over the world. Student exchanges are promoted through various programmes such as ERASMUS and our International Relations team.

#6 Promising job opportunities

The search for a job begins already during the course and especially after graduation. Degree programmes aligned with the job market and internships facilitate this transition to the world of work because contacts have already been established during the course. Students and alumni also benefit from the Career Center, which offers exclusive jobs for FH JOANNEUM graduates at over 200 companies.