Austria is more than just a country of breathtaking Alps and rich cultural heritage, it’s also a top destination for high-quality, career-focused education. When it comes to higher education, Austria offers students a choice between traditional universities and Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS); known locally as Fachhochschulen. While universities are traditionally research-focused, UAS provide practical training, academic excellence and professionally oriented education designed to equip graduates with the skills, experience, and industry connections they need to enter the workforce immediately.

Whether you’re an international student looking for hands-on learning or a professional seeking an extra-occupational degree, here’s everything you need to know about UAS in Austria.

What Are Universities of Applied Sciences?

Universities of Applied Sciences in Austria provide professionally oriented higher education with a strong emphasis on practical skills and industry collaboration.

They differ from traditional universities in that they:

• Focus on applied research rather than purely theoretical study.
• Integrate mandatory internships or career-oriented training into the curriculum.
• Have a limited number of places per programme, making admissions competitive.
• Require a final thesis and examination for graduation.

Legal framework: They operate under the Federal Act on University of Applied Sciences Studies Act (FHStG), ensuring academic rigor while maintaining close ties to the job market.

A Growing Pillar of Austrian Higher Education

The UAS sector is relatively young, launched in 1994/95. In just over two decades, it has grown rapidly:

• 21 universities across Austria.
• Over 500 degree programmes, including ~80 taught entirely in English.
• Popular fields include Business, Engineering & IT, Social Sciences, Media & Design, Health Sciences, Cultural Sciences.
• 25% of Austria’s students are international, making campuses multicultural and globally connected.

Universities of Applied Sciences in Austria’s Study Formats: Flexibility for Different Lifestyles

UAS in Austria offer two main types of programmes:

• Full-time – Ideal for students focusing entirely on their studies.
• Extra-occupational – Designed for working professionals, with flexible scheduling to accommodate employment.

Why Should You Choose a University of Applied Science in Austria?

Practical, Career-Ready Education

Courses are designed with input from industry partners, ensuring graduates have the skills employers’ demands. The graduate employment rate is around 90%.

International Opportunities

Many programmes are offered in English and have partnerships with universities worldwide, allowing for exchange semesters and joint research projects.

Affordable Tuition

Tuition fees are much lower than in the US or UK, averaging around €1,453 per semester for most programmes.

Strong Industry Integration

UAS programmes are designed with direct input from employers. This ensures graduates learn current tools, technologies, and methods relevant to their industries.

Mandatory Practical Training

Every UAS student completes an internship or professional placement. These placements:

• Build real-world experience.
• Allow networking with potential employers.
• Often lead to full-time job offers upon graduation.

Applied Research

While traditional universities focus on fundamental research, UAS conduct applied research projects that address real-world business and technological challenges.

Career Opportunities for UAS Graduates

One of the strongest arguments for studying at a UAS is its career impact:

• 90% employment rate within months of graduation.
• Many graduates receive job offers from their internship employers.
• High demand for UAS-trained professionals in engineering, IT, healthcare, and business.
• Career services such as coaching, networking events, and company fairs help students secure positions quickly.
• Strong alumni networks and international partnerships open doors to jobs abroad.

Tip: Many UAS also offer extra-occupational programmes, allowing working professionals to earn a degree while advancing in their careers.

7 Top Universities of Applied Sciences in Austria

While all 21 UAS have strengths, here are 7 standout institutions:

• FHWien der WKW – University of Applied Sciences for Management & Communication

it’s Austria’s leading University of Applied Sciences for Management and Communication, so all its programmes tie back to business, marketing, communications, and related fields. Here is a link to Bachelor, Master, and PhD pathway programmes offered by FHWien der WKW, including duration, language, tuition fees, ECTS credits, and programme.

You can download it here: FHWien_der_WKW_Study_Guide.xlsx

• UAS Technikum Wien (Vienna)

Specialties: Biomedical Engineering, Smart Homes & Assistive Technologies.

Austria’s first and largest technical UAS, offering Biomedical Engineering and Smart Homes & Assistive Technologies. Here is a link to Bachelor, Master, and PhD pathway programmes offered by UAS Technikum Wien, including duration, language, tuition fees, ECTS credits, and programme.

You can download it here: UAS_Technikum_Wien_Programmes.xlsx

• University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt (FHWN)

Specialties: Engineering, Aerospace, Security, MedTech.

Offers engineering, security, aerospace, and MedTech programmes, with strong international connections. Here is a link to Bachelor, Master, and PhD pathway programmes offered by University of Applied Science Wiener Neustadt (FHWN), including duration, language, tuition fees, ECTS credits, and programme.

You can download it here: FHWN_Programmes.xlsx

• University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria (FH OÖ)

Specialties: Informatics, Medical Engineering, Business & Management.

Leader in applied research, with programmes in informatics, medical engineering, and business. Here is a link to Bachelor, Master, and PhD pathway programmes offered by University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria (FH OÖ), including duration, language, tuition fees, ECTS credits, and programme.

You can download it here: FHOÖ_Programmes.xlsx

• University of Applied Sciences Burgenland

Specialties: Business Studies, Energy & Environment, IT with extension internship opportunities. Here is your table of Bachelor, Master, and PhD pathway programmes for the University of Applied Sciences Burgenland is ready.

You can download it here: FH_Burgenland_Programmes.xlsx

• Salzburg University of Applied Sciences

Specialties: Green Engineering, Health Sciences, Tourism with high research capabilities.

Here’s your detailed guide, it includes Bachelor, Master, and PhD pathway programmes with duration, language, tuition fees, ECTS credits, and official links: 📄 FH Salzburg Programmes Guide (PDF)

• FH Joanneum – University of Applied Sciences

Specialties: Unique programmes such as Sound Design and E-Health, alongside engineering and media studies. Here’s your detailed programme guide: 📄 FH Joanneum Programmes Guide (PDF)

It includes Bachelor, Master, and PhD pathway programmes with duration, language, tuition fees, ECTS credits, and official links.

Spotlight: University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria (FH OÖ)

As Austria’s most research-intensive UAS, FH OÖ stands out with:

• 4 campuses (Linz, Hagenberg, Steyr, Wels).
• Programmes in Engineering, IT, Business, Social Sciences, Energy & Environment.
• International student community (13% of enrolment).
• Tuition: ~€1,453 per semester.
• Vibrant student life: sports clubs, cultural events, start-up incubation support.
• Affordable living in Upper Austria — rent from €500/month outside city centers.

Admission & Entry Requirements

• Educational Qualification: High school diploma or equivalent (international equivalents accepted).
• Language Proficiency: German or English depending on the programme (IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught courses).
• Entrance Procedure: Often includes written tests, interviews, and evaluation of academic background.
• Visa: Non-EU students must apply for a student visa (universities assist in the process).

Costs of Living for Students in Austria

Average monthly budget: €900–€1,200, including:

• Rent: €500–€700
• Food: €250–€350
• Transport: €25 (monthly pass)
• Utilities & Internet: ~€50–€80

Conclusion: Is a UAS in Austria Right for You?

If you value hands-on learning, affordable tuition, and your goal is to graduate with practical experiences, strong industry connections, and a direct pathway to employment, then a University of Applied Sciences in Austria could be your perfect choice. With strong ties to industry, international opportunities, and a high graduate employment rate, UAS education prepares you not just for a job, but for a global career.

“Learn more in our Step-by-Step Guide to Applying to Austrian Universities”