Best Courses to Study in Austria for International Students: Bachelor, Master, and PhD

Are you an international student who wants to study in Austria? Do you want to know the best courses to study in Austria for your academic level and interests? If so, you might be interested in this blog post, where we will share some of the best courses to study in Austria for international students.

We’ll explore bachelor, master, and PhD levels, highlighting popular and reputable courses across diverse fields. We will also give you some information about the Austrian universities, private universities, university colleges, and other institutions that offer these courses.

The best courses to study in Austria for international students:

• Business administration
• Computer science
• International relations
• Engineering
• Psychology
• Economic studies
• Social science
• Natural science
• Humanities

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Austria has courses in business administration, computer science, psychology, engineering, and more. Studying in this hospitable country offers superb education, affordable living, variety, and rich culture.

Must read: 14 Things To Know Before Studying in Austria

Top Bachelor’s Degree Courses for International Students in Austria

A bachelor’s degree is an undergraduate academic degree typically earned after completing a specific course of study that usually lasts three to four years. It provides foundational knowledge and skills in a particular field of study and is often a prerequisite for pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree.

Business Administration

Austrian universities offer international students comprehensive business administration bachelor’s programs covering management, economics, and finance fundamentals. Vienna University, various University of Applied Sciences across Austria, and private universities offer programs tailored to international students.

These courses equip students with essential business skills, preparing them for diverse corporate roles or further studies at the master’s level.

Computer Science

Austrian universities, particularly those focusing on applied sciences, offer excellent bachelor’s degree programs in computer science. These programs encompass fundamental computer science concepts, programming languages, software development, and data analysis.

International students choose Graz University for computer science and related fields, enhancing skills and knowledge.

International Relations

Austrian universities provide bachelor’s degree programs for international relations that cover various aspects of international politics, economics, diplomacy, and law.

Vienna University offers specialized courses, equipping students with skills for complex international relations. Proficiency in language skills, especially German, is often beneficial for effective communication and understanding in this field.

Also read: Best Prepaid SIM Cards in Austria

Top Master’s Degree Courses for International Students in Austria

In Austria, several universities offer excellent Master’s degree programs to international students, providing them with valuable opportunities for academic and personal growth.

Some notable institutions include Vienna University, the University of Applied Sciences, private universities, and Salzburg University. These institutions offer diverse Master’s degree programs in various fields, catering to the needs and interests of international students.

Engineering

For international students interested in engineering, Austria offers outstanding programs at universities such as Vienna University and the University of Applied Sciences. These programs offer advanced engineering studies, encompassing applied sciences, biology, and architecture, for a comprehensive educational experience.

Students gain vital engineering skills, specializing in applied science, cost accounting, and business management for excellence.

Psychology

With its rich cultural history and diverse society, Austria provides an excellent environment for international students pursuing a Master’s degree in psychology.

Universities such as the University of Vienna offer programs in human behavior, communication skills, and cross-cultural challenges. These programs address neighboring countries’ impacts.

These programs aim to equip students with the necessary tools to understand and address psychological aspects in various social and cultural contexts.

Economic Studies

Austria’s strategic location within the European Union makes it an ideal place for international students to pursue a Master’s degree in economic studies.

Universities like Vienna University and Johannes Kepler University offer comprehensive economics programs. These focus on cost accounting, business management, and applied science.

Students can understand economic theories and practices, preparing them for roles in the global marketplace and the pharmaceutical industry.

International students studying in Austria should consider their language skills, as many programs are conducted in German.

While some universities offer programs in English, having at least a basic knowledge of German can enhance the overall experience and integration into everyday life.

Additionally, exploring options for distance learning or enrolling in language courses can help overcome language barriers.

The highest academic performance and skill in a field is a Ph.D. It requires significant research, original information, critical analysis, and imaginative problem-solving. A PhD usually needs a strong research ethic, field dedication, and independence.

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Top PhD Degree Courses for International Students in Austria

Austria offers excellent opportunities for international students seeking to pursue a Ph.D. With a strong emphasis on research and a reputation for academic excellence, Austrian universities, including the University of Applied Sciences and private universities, provide ideal environments for doctoral studies.

Social Sciences

For international students pursuing a Ph.D. in social sciences, Austria offers various universities, such as Graz University, that provide exceptional programs. These programs often focus on communication science, business studies, and teacher education.

The curriculum facilitates advanced research and critical thinking in areas relevant to social dynamics, societal issues, and today’s diverse challenges.

Natural Sciences

Austria attracts worldwide PhD students in natural sciences due of its commitment to progress. Graz University and other natural science universities provide rigorous academic and research programs.

These programs explore innovative tech, environmental science, and interdisciplinary research, fostering collaboration and cutting-edge studies.

Humanities

Austrian universities, including private and public institutions, are known for their strong humanities programs, making them appealing for international PhD students. Humanities encompass various disciplines, including literature, philosophy, history, and more.

PhD programs in humanities, available at renowned universities across Austria, emphasize critical analysis, historical interpretation, and the development of original ideas. These programs provide a conducive environment for advanced research and scholarly exploration in the humanities.

Several Austrian colleges need a good command of German, notably for German-taught Ph.D. programs. While some schools offer English programs, speaking German opens up more research opportunities. It improves academic and professional integration in Austria and Central Europe.

Academic accomplishment opens doors to academia, research, and high-tech fields with an Austrian PhD. Doctoral students from outside can benefit from Austria’s academic reputation, research facilities, and friendly academic community.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Bachelor’s Program, Master’s Degree, and PhD

Which one to choose? Bachelor’s program, Maser’s degree, or PhD? Here are the benefits and drawbacks of each option:

Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Benefits:

• Foundation of Knowledge: A Bachelor’s degree provides a strong foundational understanding of the chosen field, offering fundamental knowledge and skills.
• Prerequisite for Advancement: It serves as a stepping stone for pursuing Master’s or PhD programs, broadening career prospects and specialization opportunities.
• Early Career Entry: Enables early entry into the job market, facilitating practical exposure and experience, which is crucial for career growth.
• Cost-Effective: Typically shorter in duration compared to advanced degrees, making it a more affordable option for education.

Drawbacks:

• Limited Specialization: Bachelor’s degrees often offer a broader overview of a field, lacking the depth of specialization in higher degrees.
• Competitive Job Market: A Bachelor’s degree might not suffice in highly competitive job markets, requiring additional qualifications or experience for desired roles.

Career Opportunities:

• Entry-level positions in various industries related to the field of study.
• Junior roles in businesses, government, nonprofit organizations, etc.

Equipping for the Future:

• Develops essential skills and knowledge required for professional growth and further academic pursuits.

Master’s Degree Programs

Benefits:

• Specialization: Offers in-depth specialization within a specific field, enhancing expertise and career opportunities.
• Higher Earning Potential: Generally leads to higher earning potential than a Bachelor’s degree due to specialized knowledge.
• Networking and Research Opportunities: Provides a platform for extensive networking and research, crucial for future academic or research roles.
• Career Advancement: Equips individuals for leadership roles and career advancement in specialized domains.

Drawbacks:

• Financial Investment: Typically more expensive than a Bachelor’s degree, requiring a significant financial investment.
• Time-Intensive: Longer duration than a Bachelor’s program, delaying entry into the workforce.

Career Opportunities:

• Mid-level to senior roles in respective fields.
• Opportunities in research, management, leadership, and specialized roles.

Equipping for the Future:

• Enhances critical thinking, analytical skills, and subject expertise for career growth.

PhD Programs

Benefits:

• Research Excellence: Provides the highest level of academic and research training, fostering innovation and groundbreaking contributions to the field.
• Expertise and Recognition: Establishes individuals as experts in their study area, opening doors to academic, research, and top-tier leadership positions.
• Networking and Collaboration: Facilitates collaborations with leading researchers and access to vast academic networks.

Drawbacks:

• Time-Consuming: Extensive duration required to complete research and defend a dissertation.
• Financial Commitment: Often involves significant financial investments and may require securing funding or scholarships.

Career Opportunities:

• Academia: Professorships, research positions, academic leadership roles.
• Research Institutions: Leading research positions.
• Industry: High-level specialized roles, consultancy, innovation, and development.

Equipping for the Future:

• Prepares individuals to lead in academia, research, and innovation, contributing significantly to the advancement of knowledge.

Do you want to know how much you can earn after graduating? Check this article: What Is a Good Salary in Austria? [+Average Salaries 2022]

Best Austrian Universities for International Students

International bachelor’s degree students flock to Austria. Austria has a great school system, rich culture, stunning countryside, and a central European location. Austrian topic courses offer several possibilities for international students based on their interests, ambitions, and budget.

Some of the best Austrian universities for international students are the following:

University of Vienna

The University of Vienna is the premier Austrian university and the largest in the country, boasting an enrollment of approximately 94,000 students. It encompasses a diverse array of academic disciplines, primarily conducted in German.

However, it also features a significant selection of master’s programs delivered in English to cater to international students.

The University of Vienna is known for its emphasis on communication science, even though it’s neither a private or applied scientific university. It offers in-depth EU and applied scientific studies. This draws international students seeking high-quality education and research.

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Tuition Fee for an International Student

According to the University of Vienna’s official website, the tuition fee for non-EU/EEA citizens is 726.72 Euro per semester, plus a Students’ Union fee of 22.70 Euro per semester, for a total of 749.42 Euro per semester.

However, this rule has some exceptions, such as students from designated developing countries and UK students admitted to a degree program.

Student Reviews

• According to iAgora.com, the University of Vienna has an overall rating of 3.9 out of 5 based on reviews by international students. The academic rating is 3.9 out of 5, and the language rating is 4.4 out of 5.
• A review on StudyAbroad101.com states that the educational system at the University of Vienna leaves much to be desired and that the university is overcrowded and poorly run. However, the reviewer also notes that Vienna is a great place to live and study.

The Vienna University of Technology

International students seeking a top education in Austria choose Vienna University of Technology. It is one of the oldest and most prominent technical colleges in the German-speaking world, offering many engineering and science programs in English.

While it is not a university of applied sciences or a private university, it provides an enriching academic experience for those pursuing studies in Austria.

Moreover, Vienna, the vibrant city housing the university, is renowned for its fine arts scene, adding to the cultural appeal for students.

Many programs are offered in English. The university welcomes German and international students for undergrad and specialized programs like IMC Krems University.

Also read: Best Cities To Live and Work in Austria: Relocation Guide

Expected Tuition Fees

According to unipage.net, the tuition fee for international students is € 726.72 per semester for non-EU/EEA citizens. In addition to the tuition fee, the Students’ Union fee of € 22.70 per semester must also be paid, for a total of € 749.42 per semester.

However, Swiss citizens are treated in the same way as EU/EEA citizens regarding the tuition fee regulations,

Student Reviews

• According to iAgora.com, a student who participated in an inter-university study between TU Vienna and BOKU mentioned that the teachers in the master’s program were very nice, and the courses were okay.
• According to Mastersportal.com, the university scores 3.8 stars out of 5 based on student reviews.
• A review on Education Abroad praises the study environment at TU Wien, stating that it is excellent and the program is well-managed. The first track was challenging for the reviewer, but they succeeded with proper effort and teacher support.

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Johannes Kepler University Linz

Austria’s Johannes Kepler University Linz is known for its innovative social sciences, economics, and law departments. As a prestigious university, it offers many undergraduate and graduate programs in English for overseas students.

Kepler University trains legal students in Austria well, even though it is not an applied science university. The university’s qualified workers and researchers boost the economy.

Its focus on varied subjects and remote learning attracts domestic and foreign students. According to Kepler University’s commitment to academic excellence and research-driven education, PhD programs can be rewarding.

Must Read: How To Study in Austria for Free: Complete Guide

Tuition Fees at Johannes Kepler University

The tuition fee for international students at Johannes Kepler University Linz (JKU) is € 22.70 per semester. This fee is the Austrian Student Union fee, which all students, including international students, must pay every semester.

However, it is important to note that JKU offers free education for local citizens and European Union residents. The tuition fees mentioned above apply to non-EU/EEA citizens.

Student Reviews

• According to iAgora.com, the university is quiet and not very beautiful. However, the language learning program is praised, and there is a very good International Office and International Society that looks after the needs of international students.
• Based on student reviews on Mastersportal.com, JKU has an overall score of 4.0 stars out of 5. The university is ranked 446 in the QS World University Rankings by TopUniversities.
• According to EduOpinions.com, JKU has a rating of 5.0, indicating positive student feedback. The website provides more student reviews and rankings for the university.

Graz University of Technology

In Austria, foreign engineering and science students prefer Graz University of Technology. This oldest European technical university offers many English-taught courses for international students.

International students are welcome at the university, which combines academic brilliance with active international life. Graz University of Technology’s art program mixes creativity with technology.

Additionally, the university’s bachelor’s programs draw European students. International students pursuing Austrian medical and other degrees benefit from the university’s academic excellence and low tuition.

Related article: How To Stay in Austria After the Graduation?

Tuition Fees at Graz University of Technology

Tuition fees at Graz University of Technology are generally low, especially for local citizens and European Union residents who can study for free. International students’ tuition fees start from 1,537 USD per year, based on a report by unipage.net. The cost of living in Graz is also relatively affordable compared to other European cities.

Student Reviews

• According to Mastersportal.com, Graz University of Technology scores 4.4 stars out of 5 based on student reviews. The university is ranked 421 in the QS World University Rankings by TopUniversities.
• Based on the EDUopinions rankings, Graz University of Technology has a 4.0 out of 5 rating. The website provides more student reviews and rankings for the university.
• According toiAgora.com, the university is praised for its practical opportunities and the quality of its professors and administration.

Related article: Can You Study in Austria in English?

Salzburg University

Salzburg University, ranked #816 in Best Global Universities by US News and #681-690 in QS World University Rankings 2024, attracts international students in Austria. The university offers diverse courses, including theology, cultural science, law, business, natural sciences, and digital technologies.

The university offers a culturally rich platform for international bachelor’s students, blending academic excellence with Austrian university life.

Additionally, Salzburg University’s services ease international students’ transition, fostering a supportive environment for their academic journey from other countries.

While located in Salzburg, it also connects students to the broader academic and business landscape, including business opportunities in Vienna and beyond.

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Tuition Fee at Salzburg University

The tuition fee at Salzburg University varies depending on the type of program and the student’s status. Here is the information about tuition fees at Salzburg University:

• Non-degree students must pay the tuition fees of 363.36 Euros plus 21.20 Euros ÖH fee, irrespective of their nationality, starting with the first semester.
• Salzburg University of Applied Sciences charges tuition fees of 363 Euros per semester for all students.
• The University of Salzburg offers free education for local citizens and European Union residents.
• For other international students, tuition fees start from 1,540 USD per year.

Student Reviews

• According to iAgora.com, the university has an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 based on reviews by international students. The academic rating is 4.1 out of 5, and the language rating is 4.1 out of 5.
• Based on student reviews on Mastersportal.com, the University of Salzburg has an overall score of 4.3 stars out of 5. The university is ranked 681 in the QS World University Rankings by TopUniversities.

Related article: Top 11 Austrian Universities for International Students [2023]

Final Thoughts About The Best Courses to Study in Austria

In this blog post, we have shared some of the best courses to study in Austria for international students at the bachelor, master, and PhD levels.

We have also highlighted some of the best Austrian universities that offer these courses, tuition fees, and student reviews.

We hope this information has been helpful and informative for you and inspired you to consider studying in Austria as an option for your academic and career goals.

If you want to know more about studying in Austria, please click on the links to access our guide on everything you need to know about studying in this beautiful country. By doing so, you will also help us keep this blog afloat and provide more useful content for you and other readers.