Anyone planning to study is quickly faced with a fundamental decision: university or university of applied sciences? 🤔 Both paths lead to an academic degree, but differ significantly in terms of structure, teaching style, and everyday life.
Universities focus on theory and research, while universities of applied sciences score points primarily with their high practical relevance and proximity to the business world. Universities of applied sciences offer a well-thought-out concept that is particularly interesting for those who value practical experience, structure, and personal exchange. In contrast to universities, there are no overcrowded lecture halls and no competition for course places. The timetable is predetermined and classes are held in small groups.
What are the advantages of studying at a university of applied sciences? We have summarized eight advantages that universities of applied sciences have:
1. Study real business
At universities of applied sciences, the curriculum focuses not only on theory, but above all on what will actually be needed later in the workplace. The education is practice-oriented: case studies, practical projects with top companies from the business world, exercises, and direct applications ensure that specialist knowledge is linked to practical skills. What’s particularly cool is that two-thirds of the lecturers at FHWien der WKW come directly from the field. đź’Ľ They bring fresh insights from the business world with them—and you can feel that in the classroom.
In addition, the curriculum regularly includes exciting excursions, company tours, and field trips that provide an exclusive look at the practical side of things.
2. Well planned instead of unplanned
Those who study at a university of applied sciences know where they stand. Fixed timetables and exam dates are announced early at FHWien der WKW. 🗓️ This provides clarity and makes it easier to plan your studies, both full-time and part-time. The university of applied sciences has a clear schedule. At the same time, there is room for individual interests – for example, through electives or specializations.
3. Small groups, big impact
At universities of applied sciences, no one is just a student ID number. The so-called cohorts (= study groups/classes) are small and often consist of no more than 40 people. This creates space for personal exchange and close supervision by the teachers. Group work, joint projects, and small group divisions (e.g., in languages or social skills) promote cooperation and help students build not only knowledge but also a network. đź‘Ą For many, the cohesion within the cohort is a plus point in everyday student life and friendships for life are formed.
4. At the heart of the economy
Studies at universities of applied sciences are not only “practical,” they are rooted in practice. Students regularly work with companies during their studies – for example, as part of practical projects or final theses. A mandatory professional internship is an integral part of the Bachelor’s program. This allows students to establish contacts in the working world at an early stage – often with the prospect of a future career. 🚀
In addition to full-time studies, most courses at universities of applied sciences can also be completed on a part-time or dual basis. The lectures then take place in the evening or at the weekend. This makes it easier to balance career, studies, and family/leisure time.
Students also receive active support with career planning. For example, FHWien der WKW has its own job platform where students can find internships and job offers. In addition, there is an annual Career Day with a career fair, CV check, application photo shoot, and career workshops.
5. Learning that fits today’s world
Lectures? They happen, but not often. Instead, the focus is on a modern teaching approach: integrated courses, workshops, business games, field trips, and digital elements make sure that content is actively worked through. The focus is not on pure input, but on the skills that students should actually master at the end of their studies – practical, interconnected, and application-oriented.
6. Attendance that pays off
A 75 % attendance requirement sounds strict, but actually it’s a real advantage. Those who attend regularly stay on the ball, can clarify questions directly, and benefit from exchanges with others. This creates commitment – and helps you stay on track.
7. Out into the world
A semester abroad? Almost standard at the FH – at least in the full-time programs. 🌍 There are over 150 partner universities worldwide to choose from, and the Center for International Education & Mobility provides support in organizing your semester abroad. A stay abroad is also possible for part-time students. International experience is therefore a given. Not only can you improve your foreign language skills, but you can also enhance your intercultural competencies and make international friends – a plus for any resume!
8. A degree with real value
A full academic degree is also awarded at the university of applied sciences – at FHWien der WKW, graduates receive a BA, MA, or MSc degree. This opens all doors for them – including further study or a career in management positions.
Conclusion: Universities of applied sciences and traditional universities are different – neither better nor worse
The decision between a university or a university of applied sciences depends on how you learn best and what your goals are. If you want a structured course of study, value practical relevance, and want to build career prospects early on, a university of applied sciences offers the right conditions. With clear organization, direct practical relevance, small groups, and innovative teaching, universities of applied sciences offer a study environment that takes modern requirements seriously and prepares students specifically for the job market.
Differences at a glance: university vs. university of applied sciences
| University of applied sciences | University | |
| 🧠Learning focus | Application & practical relevance | Theory & scientific work |
| 🗓️ Organization | Fixed schedules, clear procedures, good predictability | Flexible timetable, more personal responsibility |
| 👩‍🏫 Lecturers | Mostly with practical experience | Often full-time researchers and professors |
| đź‘Ą Group size | Small groups | Many large lectures |
| đź’Ľ Practical relevance | Mandatory internships, projects with companies, close ties to the business world | Fewer mandatory practical components, voluntary internships possible |
| 🌍 Internationality | Semester abroad compulsory for full-time students, optional for part-time students | Also possible, often through Erasmus or other programs |
| 🧑‍🎓 Degree | BA, MA, MSc – equivalent to university degrees | BA, BSc, MA, MSc … – wider range of academic degrees |
Does the FH sound convincing? Click here to see the range of study programs we offer