International experience, specialized expertise, and early practical involvement are among the key factors for entering the global financial market. This is precisely where the dual degree program “Venture Capital and Entrepreneurial Financing” comes in, offered by the Master’s Program Financial Management & Controlling at FHWien der WKW in collaboration with the Universitat Internacional de Catalunya (UIC) in Barcelona.
What is a Dual Degree Program?
A dual degree program allows students to earn two master’s degrees from partner universities. The curriculum is coordinated between the institutions so that students can efficiently complete both degrees within a single program. This means that after two years, students will hold master’s degrees from FHWien der WKW and UIC Barcelona. At the same time, graduates benefit from international perspectives and expanded career opportunities.
A Structured Organization with an International Focus
The program combines coursework at UIC Barcelona with practical experience gained through a mandatory work placement. Students spend their first semester in Barcelona and apply their knowledge directly in a professional setting during their second semester. The master’s thesis is jointly supervised by both universities, thereby strengthening international academic collaboration.
Barcelona as a Dynamic Financial Hub
By choosing Barcelona, students are opting for a location that has established itself as one of Europe’s leading hubs for venture capital and private equity. Spain ranks among the top five countries in Europe for VC investments. As an international private university, UIC Barcelona offers an environment that combines academic excellence with practical relevance.
This dual degree program between FHWien der WKW and UIC Barcelona is one of the few specialized degree programs in the field of venture capital and entrepreneurial financing. This specialization provides a solid foundation for entering international financial markets.
Benefits for Students
Participants benefit from a master’s program that combines several key aspects:
- Earning two recognized academic degrees
- International study and work experience
- Close integration of theory and practice
- Access to a dynamic network in the venture capital sector
- Enhanced career opportunities through strong integration into the job market
International Education with Clear Added Value
The Dual Degree Program is designed for students who wish to build a career in international finance. By combining specialization, an international focus, and a practical orientation, the program offers a curriculum specifically tailored to the demands of the global job market.
The most recent information session took place during the winter semester of 2025 and highlighted the close collaboration between the Financial Management Study Programs at FHWien der WKW and the Universitat Internacional de Catalunya. Through the targeted involvement of the UIC in the form of a presentation of the dual degree program, students gained early, in-depth insights into international study opportunities and are actively informed about their options within the framework of the partnership.
>> More information about the Master’s Program Financial Management & Controlling