When people think about studying, they often hear the same claims: A degree from a university of applied sciences is worth less. Universities of applied sciences hardly do any research. And anyone who really wants to build a career has to go to a university. These kinds of myths have been circulating for years – but are they still true? Here are five common clichés and what is really behind them.
Where do these myths come from?
Many myths about universities of applied sciences date back to the time before the Bologna Process. This was a Europe-wide higher education reform that standardized academic degrees. Back then, degrees from universities of applied sciences had different names than they do today. That has left a lasting impression in some people’s minds. Today, the situation is different.
Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from universities of applied sciences and universities are formally equivalent and are also recognized as such in the working world.
Still, old perceptions are hard to shake. Yet universities of applied sciences have changed and evolved significantly over the years. The following five points show which clichés no longer reflect reality.
What clichés exist – and what is really true?
Here are five common myths about universities of applied sciences and the facts behind them:
- „A degree from a university of applied sciences is worth less than a university degree.“
Fact: Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from universities of applied sciences and universities are formally equivalent. - „Studying at a university of applied sciences is easier.“
Fact: The study program is demanding and requires full commitment. - „Graduates of universities of applied sciences have worse career prospects.“
Fact: Employers value the practice-oriented education and the fact that graduates are ready to contribute right away. - „Universities of applied sciences are hardly international.“
Fact: Many universities of applied sciences maintain international partnerships and offer opportunities to study abroad. - „Universities of applied sciences do not conduct research.“
Fact: Many universities of applied sciences conduct active, practice-oriented research.
Is a degree from a university of applied sciences really worth less?
No. Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from universities of applied sciences and universities are formally equivalent today – including on the labor market. Universities of applied sciences undergo official quality reviews by independent bodies. The study programs at FHWien der WKW, for example, are accredited by the Agency for Quality Assurance and Accreditation Austria (AQ Austria). Internal and external evaluations also help ensure quality standards.
Anyone who earns a Master’s degree from a university of applied sciences can then go on to pursue a doctoral or PhD program. This shows that a degree from a university of applied sciences opens many doors.
What are the career prospects after graduation?
Graduates of universities of applied sciences are in demand on the labor market. Employers value their practice-oriented education and the fact that graduates can contribute right away. At FHWien der WKW, two-thirds of the lecturers come directly from the business world. They bring up-to-date knowledge into the classroom and provide exciting insights into day-to-day professional life. In addition, practical projects, case studies, field trips and company visits create a strong practical focus. All Bachelor’s students are also required to complete a professional internship. This gives students real work experience while they are still studying.
The Alumni & Career Services support students and graduates specifically in their job search and career development. Their services include an online job platform, CV checks and events with partner companies such as the Career Day. Graduates of FHWien der WKW build careers nationally and internationally across a wide range of industries.
Are there international opportunities at a university of applied sciences?
Yes – many of them. FHWien der WKW maintains international activities in teaching and research. Students can spend a semester abroad at more than 160 partner universities worldwide. This is a real opportunity to gain international experience. Professional internships or shorter stays abroad can also be completed in another country.
In addition, many international students and lecturers come to FHWien der WKW. This creates a diverse learning environment.
Do universities of applied sciences conduct research at all?
Yes. Research plays an important role at many universities of applied sciences. FHWien der WKW conducts practice-oriented research in professional fields – in other words, research that is directly connected to the working world. The university works closely with companies as well as national and international higher education institutions. The goal is to develop innovative solutions for forward-looking strategies and to support companies.
The main research areas are digital transformation, sustainability and strategic management. Current research findings are integrated directly into teaching. As a result, students learn not only theory, but also how knowledge works in practice.
This close connection between research and practice shapes the study experience at a university of applied sciences. Anyone who is interested in applied topics and wants to study close to the professional world will find a suitable environment here.
What should you consider when choosing a degree program?
Anyone planning to start a degree program should not be guided by outdated clichés. What matters more is: What suits me? Universities of applied sciences often offer a structured education with a strong practical focus and close support in smaller groups. This can be a major advantage, especially for people who want to learn in a practice-oriented way and enter the workforce quickly.
A few questions can help with the decision: Do I prefer learning in small groups with close support? Do I want to gain practical experience while I study? Am I interested in applied topics such as management, communication or digitalization? Anyone who answers yes to these questions will often find very good conditions at a university of applied sciences.
Conclusion: it’s worth questioning the clichés
Many myths about universities of applied sciences come from a different time and no longer reflect reality today. Degrees from universities of applied sciences are formally equivalent to university degrees, research is active and practice-oriented and career prospects are strong. Universities of applied sciences are modern, quality-oriented and internationally connected higher education institutions. Anyone interested in studying should form their own opinion – and not rely on outdated clichés.
Interested in studying at a university of applied sciences?
You can find the full range of practice-oriented degree programs offered by FHWien der WKW here.
Not sure yet which direction to take? We recommend our free online test: What should I study?