As the end of school draws closer, the question “What comes next?” quickly turns into a long list of options: a study program, a gap year, military or civilian service, a voluntary social year, a first job, au pair work, time abroad, and more. During this phase, families often have a lot to talk about because the goal is to find a decision that not only sounds good, but also truly fits.
Taking a closer look at different study paths can help. Study formats that provide structure while also offering practical training are especially interesting. In this article, you will learn why a university of applied sciences study program is a good path for many students and what exactly lies behind the concept of a “Fachhochschule” (= university of applied sciences).
1. What is a university of applied sciences, and how is it different from a university?
A university of applied sciences offers structured study programs with a strong focus on practical application. Universities are often more theory- and research-oriented and usually give students more freedom in organizing their studies. At universities of applied sciences, schedules and processes are clearer, and classes often take place in smaller groups.
For a compact comparison, read: „University or university of applied sciences? What really matters when choosing a study program“
How does the difference become visible in everyday life at a university of applied sciences?
- Predictability: fixed schedules and clearer processes
- Teaching format: fewer anonymous large lectures, more exercises and exchange in small groups
- Practical focus: projects, case studies, and real-world assignments as a fixed part of the curriculum
2. How practice-oriented is a university of applied sciences study program really?
Practical relevance is part of the concept: practical projects, case studies, excursions/field trips, and mandatory internships in Bachelor’s programs connect course content directly with professional fields.
Why this matters when starting a career:
- Skills and soft skills instead of knowledge only: presenting, project work, teamwork, tools
- Contact with the professional world: assignments and lecturers with a strong connection to business
- Reality check: early insights into how jobs in management and communication actually work
3. What are the specific advantages of FHWien der WKW?
FHWien der WKW stands for practice-oriented study programs in management and communication, support in manageable groups, and a clear focus on careers. The goal is a study program that is easy to plan and, at the same time, closely connected to the professional world.
Typical advantages in everyday student life:
- Small groups: more feedback, more exchange, stronger team dynamics
- Practical projects: learning through concrete cases instead of theory alone
- Vienna as a study location: campus, surroundings, and a wide range of opportunities beyond the classroom
- Recognized academic degree: for example, BA (Bachelor of Arts)
4. What study areas are available, and how can students find the right fit?
Choosing a study program works best with the right mix of interests, strengths, learning style, and career profiles. Instead of clicking through numerous program pages, a clear starting point through a study program finder can help.
For quick initial orientation, FHWien der WKW offers the free online test “What should I study?” The result provides a good basis for discussion during the next steps of the decision-making process.
Here you can find an overview of all degree programs and our study program finder: “Which study program suits me?”
5. How does choosing a study program become a real decision and not just a gut feeling?
A decision becomes more solid when real insights are added. Information events provide exactly that: content, organization, atmosphere, and the opportunity to ask questions directly to the head of the study program.
Dates and formats can be found here: „Information events at FHWien der WKW“
In addition, every March you can get to know the FHWien der WKW campus during the Open House and talk to students and faculty staff on site. The date will be published here in good time.
Helpful questions parents can ask at information events:
- What career paths are realistic after graduation?
- How large are the groups, and how does feedback work?
- What practical projects are there in the first and second semester?
Everything at a glance
- Study programs at FHWien der WKW
- Free online quiz: What should I study?
- Information events at FHWien der WKW
- Studying at FHWien der WKW: information for parents
- Studying at FHWien der WKW: the highlights
- University or university of applied sciences? What really matters when choosing a study program