Your perfect choice!

Bachelor Applied Informatics

While some people are simply users of smartphones and PCs, others are keen to look behind the physical structures of digital devices. Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Software Development are the fields of research experiencing the biggest boom in the computer sciences.

Join the Bachelor’s programme in Applied Informatics and turn into an all-round digital professional, ready to develop the technologies of the future.

Curious what the Bachelor's degree programme in Applied Informatics is all about?

Fact-Box

Duration:

semesters
ECTS credits:

180

Level of qualification: Bachelor's degree programme
Degree:

Bachelor of Science (BSc)

Prerequisites:

General university entrance qualification, knowledge of German B2

Special admission procedure:

No.

Language of instruction:

German, some English

Curriculum (PDF)
Range of courses

Virtually no other area is developing as rapidly as information technology. When it comes to computer scientists, a solid basic education enables you to respond swiftly to new trends or even to become a trendsetter yourself for the digital developments of the future. The Bachelor’s degree in “Applied Informatics” can offer you both: theoretical principles, allowing you to keep up to date at all times, and the close connection to the practical application. We cooperate extensively with technology companies to prepare you for the booming IT labour market.

The University of Klagenfurt places great emphasis on the current top research topics in the Bachelor’s programme in “Applied Informatics“: Artificial Intelligence, System Security, App Development and Management Information Systems are just three of the many specialisations you can choose from.

You will be taught by our team of lecturers consisting of distinguished experts who are internationally renowned in their respective fields of research: We can show you how to optimise production processes in industry, how to make IT systems as secure as possible and how Big Data can be used in a way that is both useful and time-saving! Did you know that it would take a computer more than 100,000 years to solve a Sudoku puzzle with 9 x 9 squares, if the machine were to test every single possible alternative? Human beings, by contrast, are much faster. Find out from us how we can harness the strengths of human problem-solving strategies and apply them more effectively to machines. Become a digital problem solver with the Bachelor’s programme in Applied Informatics!

We believe: You have the potential to shape the IT world with your technical and creative potential. We want to inspire, not impede. And that’s why there is no special admission procedure.

Term dates & deadlines

Winter semester 2023/24

General admission period for Bachelor’s degree programmes:
10 July 2023 to 5 September 2023

Go to Term dates & deadlines

Summer semester 2024

General admission period for Bachelor’s degree programmes:
08 January 2024 to 05 February 2024

Go to Term dates & deadlines

Why study Applied Informatics at the University of Klagenfurt?

Our student Sarah has the answer to your question!

You are special. So are we.

This is what makes the degree programme so special

Practical AND theoretical: The software internship is one of the most important components of the degree programme. Over the course of two semesters you will be working on projects in working groups. We will accompany you closely throughout, so you can consolidate what you have learnt in the best possible way.
International setting: More young international people study at Klagenfurt University than at other universities. Spanish, Russian, English, Chinese – we offer a wide range of language classes to help you prepare for your career, wherever you choose to live and work. The Master’s degree programmes available to you following your graduation are all taught in English.
We will accompany you on your journey. Are you nervous about disappearing among the masses of students at a large university? That won’t happen to you here in Klagenfurt. For us you are not just one among many, you are special. We want to know who you are, what moves you and what you want to achieve. That’s why we offer very good supervision arrangements, small seminars and compact working groups.

Contact

Student Guidance Service
E-Mail: studieninfo [at] aau [dot] at

Office of the Programme Director
Website of the Programme Director
E-Mail: spl-informatik [at] aau [dot] at

Student Representatives
Website of the Student Representatives
E-Mail:oeh [dot] informatik [at] aau [dot] at

Luftbildaufnahme der Universität Klagenfurt

How we are seen

We excel in rankings!
The University of Klagenfurt is one of the top 2 % universities worldwide.
(Times Higher Education World University Rankings)
We are distinguished by our students!
The University of Klagenfurt is the only university in the world to win a Global Student Satisfaction Award twice in a row
(Studyportals – the Global Study Choice Platform)

Our study programmes come highly recommended!
The University of Klagenfurt is recommended by 97 % of its students.
(studycheck.de)
Top quality is our standard!
The University of Klagenfurt places high value on comprehensive quality standards. Our quality management is EVALAG-certified,
we maintain the highest environmental standards (EMAS certification) and are a family-friendly university.
(State quality label “hochschuleundfamilie”)

Focused studies. Our core topics

Software Development: We will show you how to develop sound and trouble-free software, across all development stages: You plan, you develop, you implement and you test.
Mathematics: Informatics would not exist without mathematics. We will teach you all the essentials you need. We will also introduce you to the theoretical concepts of computer science.
Technical principles and system software: Nowadays, one computer by itself can do very little. Computing power is provided jointly by many devices operating in networks and in the cloud. The more distributed they are, the more vulnerable they are to cyberattacks. We will show you how networks function and how they can be protected against threats.
Semantic Systems and Natural Language Processing: We will show you how the fundamental processes involved in knowledge representation and language understanding work, such as those required in intelligent personal assistants (e.g. Alexa or Cortana).
System Security: Discover how cryptographic algorithms work, how to think like a security engineer, how to design and implement secure systems and how to evaluate the security of (test) systems with SW and HW tools.
Management Information Systems: These days, companies have to adapt to the demands of digitalisation at lightning speed if they want to stay up to date. Many require customised technical solutions to meet their needs. We will show you how to make this a reality.
Media Informatics: YouTube, TikTok, Twitch, Spotify – streaming is part of your daily routine. What’s the story behind these technologies? You will find out about the essentials of audio and video formats as well as the development of multimedia apps and computer games.
Artificial Intelligence: Be it as a search tool, navigation tool, advisor or translator – artificial intelligence has entered our day-to-day lives. We will show you how intelligent machines work, solve complex tasks and learn new knowledge.
Interactive Systems: The focus of the specialisation is on users and their interaction with user interfaces. The core topics of the courses cover understanding users and context, usability and user experience, and interface design.
Information and Communications Engineering: Measurement data, images, videos or voice signals constitute information that is generated, transported and processed by technical means. Without information technology, smartphones, medical diagnostic equipment, cars, game consoles or robots would simply not work today.
Feminist Science/Gender Studies: This specialization offers you the opportunity to expand your technical knowledge with skills from the fields of gender research.

Your skills are our mission. This is what we can teach you

We help you to acquire scientific skills, and you can use them to good effect: While some people become mere users of PCs, we will turn you into a visionary thinker, designer and trendsetter in the IT world, with a lot of freedom and scope for action in your professional life.

Everything you need for the practical setting. Around 40 percent of our lecturers are highly successful in the professional field. What we offer is nothing out of this world, but rather we allow you to take flight.
Triumph with soft skills. The world of work needs team players who can work creatively and purposefully, regardless of subjects and cultures. In our seminars you will learn how to boost inspiration and efficiency in group work. Here you will learn to become a moderator and manager of projects.
Reaching for the sky after graduation. Many of our graduates enter professional life straight after their Bachelor’s degree. However, others are eager for more. At the University of Klagenfurt, we are able to offer you Master's degree programmes, which are specially tailored to your interests: Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity, Informatics, (with supplementary courses) Information and Communications Engineering (with a focus on Autonomous Systems and Robotics, Networks and Communications, Business Engineering), (with supplementary courses) Information Management, Media and Convergence Management. The choice is yours!

If you think all of this sounds too difficult for you…

…you’re mistaken: You can easily get started ! Although some do find it a bit challenging to get used to “thinking algorithmically” at the very beginning of their studies, and to understand the maths behind the computer science: Still, our students later tell us that it was well worth the effort to master the difficulties.

If you ever get stuck, or if you feel that the knowledge you learned at school is not enough, we can help you! We have dedicated preparation courses for this purpose: These focused workshops in maths and computer science will bring you up to speed and help you launch your studies. Taking advantage of these voluntary and free offers will also provide benefits later on: The preparation courses qualify as free elective subjects.

Have we got what you need?

We will guide you through the first steps of your degree! Via phone or e-mail, or face-to-face over a coffee.

Let’s talk: get in touch now!

Best prospects. Your professional opportunities

First of all: Excellent job prospects lie in store for you when you graduate from the Bachelor‘s programme in Applied Informatics. IT experts are highly sought after on the job market and the headhunters working for major companies recruit graduates through our numerous career projects. After completing your studies, you can work in the following fields, among others:

Software developer or tester: You will become an expert for the entire development process: from design to testing.
Database designer: Large bodies of knowledge, Big Data, need to be carefully planned and organised so that they can be harnessed for practical purposes.
Cybersecurity expert: Attacks and threat scenarios are a major concern for many IT infrastructures. Today, practically every company needs experts in the field of system security.

Join our community

You’ll soon discover this: Graduates and students from the University of Klagenfurt have many interesting careers.

aau/Maier

Klaus Schöffmann wins Lifelog Search Challenge 2023

Many small software components add up to a single application: Novel methods aim to simplify the detection of side effects caused by changes

aau/Müller

“What astonishes me is how easily we humans are persuaded by content that is generated by a machine.”

Looking for guidance and advice?

Are you interested in the Bachelor's degree programme in Applied Informatics and in need of some personal advice with no strings attached? Our student guidance service will be happy to advise you!

Go to Student guidance

Programme structure

In Klagenfurt you can study at your own pace. To help you follow your path with confidence, we keep it clear of (bureaucratic) stumbling blocks and barriers. If you wish to reach your goal quickly and efficiently, we will always be there to support you. Our recommended course of study will guide you through the semesters. You work your way through the curriculum – making the most of opportunities to broaden your horizons and without wasting time. If you would like to know which courses await you before you start, take a look at the wide range of seminars and lectures.

Main areas

Programme structure: a tabular overview

Programme structure: a tabular overview
Subject	Designation	ECTS credits	Recommended semester
Required subjects	Fundamental Principles of Applied Informatics	30	1-2
	Fundamental Principles of Software Development	27	3-5
	Mathematics and Theoretical Foundations	32	1-5
	Technical Foundations and System Software	24	3-5
	Competence Expansion	8	1-5
	Bachelor's Thesis and Seminar	14	5-6
Elective subjects	Specialisation in Informatics	18	4-6
	Specialisation	12	4-6
	Supplement	6	6
Options		9	1-6
Total		180

Introductory orientation period (STEOP)

The introductory orientation phase grants students an overview of the key elements of the degree programme and of the course of studies ahead. Thus, it provides a factual basis for the personal evaluation of the choice of degree programme. The introductory orientation phase for the Bachelor's degree programme in Applied Informatics consists of the lecture courses "Introduction to Informatics I" and "Introduction to Structured and Object-Based Programming I“, plus the associated exercises, accounting for 8 ECTS credits in total. Prior to completing the STEOP, additional courses worth up to 22 ECTS credits may be taken.

Recommended course of study

1. Semester | 2. Semester

Important note regarding lecture courses scheduled on a cyclical basis: Although certain lecture courses are only offered once a year, the corresponding examinations can be taken year-round on specific dates.

1. Semester (Starting in the winter semester)

Recommended course of study: a tabular overview
SUBJECT	ECTS	Course number + title	Course type
Fundamental Principles of Applied Informatics (STEOP)	2	Einführung in die Informatik	VO
	4	Einführung in die Informatik	UE*⁺
	0	Einführung in die Informatik	TU
	2	Einführung in die strukturierte und objektbasierte Programmierung	VO
	4	Einführung in die strukturierte und objektbasierte Programmierung	UE*⁺
	0	Einführung in die strukturierte und objektbasierte Programmierung	TU
Mathematics and Theoretical Foundations	3	Diskrete Mathematik	VO
	2	Übungen zu Diskrete Mathematik	UE*⁺
	0	Diskrete Mathematik	TU
Competence Expansion	2	English for Computing	VC*⁺
Competence Expansion	1	Einführung in das wissenschaftliche Arbeiten	VC*
Total	20⁺⁺

* compulsory attendance
+ Select only one of the groups
++ Take free electives and courses from the competence expansion in order to achieve the recommended 30 ECTS

2. Semester

Recommended course of study: a tabular overview
SUBJECT	ECTS	Course number + title	Course type
Fundamental Principles of Applied Informatics	2	Objektorientierte Modellierung und Implementierung	VO
	4	Objektorientierte Modellierung und Implementierung	UE*⁺
	0	Objektorientierte Modellierung und Implementierung	TU
	2	Datenbanken	VO
	4	Datenbanken	UE*⁺
	2	Algorithmen und Datenstrukturen	VO
	4	Algorithmen und Datenstrukturen	UE*⁺
	0	Algorithmen und Datenstrukturen	TU
Mathematics and Theoretical Foundations	3	Analysis für Informatik	VO
Mathematics and Theoretical Foundations	2	Analysis für Informatik	UE*⁺
Competence Expansion	2	Presentation and Communication	VC*⁺
Total	25⁺⁺

* compulsory attendance
+ Select only one of the groups
++ Take free electives and courses from the competence expansion in order to achieve the recommended 30 ECTS

Curriculum

Range of courses

Limits are old news. What else can we offer you?

There are no limits to your personal development. Enjoy the freedom that only a university degree can offer you and expand your horizons beyond your academic studies. You can pick and choose which competences will set you apart in the future. We have lots to offer, for instance:

Are you looking to set up your own business and launch an entrepreneurial venture? By acquiring the “Build! Entrepreneurship Certificate” you will gain precisely the skills you need to turn your brilliant idea into a successful business! The nearby Lakeside Science & Technology Park also offers you the necessary facilities so you don’t need to sit in a garage while you are working on the app that will change the world and expand your wallet.
Do you want to learn a new language and prepare for an international career? You can learn Russian, Spanish or Chinese (and many other languages besides) at the University of Klagenfurt.

Continue to browse through this overview of all the elective subjects.

Specialist courses & optional subjects

Extension programmes

Would you like some guidance to help you plan your studies?

Admission

Admission to the degree programme must take place before the end of the general admission period (winter semester: 5 September | summer semester: 5 February).
A late admission until 31 October (winter semester) or 31 March (summer semester) can only be granted in exceptional circumstances.

Admission with an Austrian school leaving certificate or an entrance qualification from Germany

Admission without an Austrian school leaving certificate or an entrance qualification from Germany

Prerequisites

You do not have to go through a special admission procedure to start the Bachelor‘s degree in Applied Informatics in Klagenfurt. Simply enrol and get stuck in!

You only have to meet the following conditions, which also apply to all other programmes:

General university entrance qualification (e.g. Matura)
German language skills at level B2 (CEFR)

Prospective students who apply for admission to a German-language degree programme and whose first language is not German must provide evidence of German language proficiency no lower than level A2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) at the time of application.

German courses and exams are offered as part of the VAAU preparatory course by the Language Center German in Austria.

The first steps are always … accompanied!

We won’t abandon you, especially at the start of your studies!

Here in Klagenfurt, you will get to know your fellow students during the Welcome Days – and you will make new friends in the very first week; friends you will share memorable experiences with in the years to come.
You will never be a mere (matriculation) number here: Our courses have a limited number of participants and so our lecturers will soon get to know you. We encourage and challenge you, in every way you need!
Your degree starts with the so-called “Introductory phase (STEOP)”. No matter which school you attended or which qualifications you bring with you to the university: We will get you to the level you need in order to study successfully in the semesters ahead. In addition, the technology preparation courses will help you to rapidly progress on the road to success in your studies!
During the first semester, our students are coached in small groups by mentors, making it easier for you to get off to a good start.

Ready to get started and keen to find out more about enrolling for a degree programme?

Get in touch with us now!

The world is your own!

The information and communication technology industry is global: So, whether you want to work in Dubai developing new mobile phone technologies for the 5G network after graduation or work in e-commerce product development in Silicon Valley, the world is yours to explore. Complete a semester abroad during your studies and spend it at one of the university’s 250 or so partner universities. You won't need to worry about your finances – we have plenty of scholarships on offer.

Partner universities

Study abroad

Continuing your studies

Once you have completed the Bachelor's degree programme in Applied Informatics you can continue straight on to one of the following degree programmes:

Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity

Master’s degree programme

Degree programme

Informatics

Master’s degree programme

Degree programme

Information Management

Master’s degree programme (supplementary courses must to be completed)

Degree programme

Information and Communications Engineering

Master’s degree programme with a focus on Autonomous Systems and Robotics, Networks and Communications, Business Engineering (supplementary courses must to be completed)

Degree programme

Media and Convergence Management

Master’s degree programme

Degree programme

These Bachelor’s degree programmes may also be of interest

Mathematics

Management Information Systems

Information and Communications Engineering

Branch of study Engineering

Information and Communications Engineering

Branch of study Business Engineering

All degree programmes

Looking for guidance and advice?

Are you interested in the Bachelor's degree programme in Applied Informatics and in need of some personal advice with no strings attached? Our student guidance service will be happy to advise you!

Go to Student guidance

FAQ. Frequently asked questions

Can I start my studies even if I don’t have any prior knowledge? How can I prepare for my degree programme?

What is most important when starting your studies is that you have an interest in and a curiosity about the field of study and the subject area. No prior knowledge is required. If you are still unsure, simply attend one of our technology preparation courses. Here, you can refresh your knowledge of computer science and mathematics along with other first-year students. The course is free of charge and will be credited as part of your studies.

Is the degree programme in Applied Informatics the right one for me?

If you are interested in computers, software development and cutting-edge topics such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity or video technologies, then the degree programme in Applied Informatics is perfect for you! You will be designing the software and communication systems of tomorrow. What’s more, our degree programmes have a strong practical relevance. This means that you will learn concepts and methods to solve concrete application problems at a very early stage

Is there currently a special admission procedure for Informatics at the University of Klagenfurt?

There is no special admission procedure for Informatics at the University of Klagenfurt. Anyone who is interested and has achieved a university entrance qualification (e.g. Matura, Abitur) can pursue a degree in Informatics at our university.

How do I start my academic studies at the University of Klagenfurt?

Our check list will help you to get started. We have compiled everything you need to know here – from registering online right up to enrolling for a degree programme.

Is there a mentoring programme?

The mentoring programme is designed to smooth the way for first-semester students entering university. During the first semester, our students are coached in small groups by experienced mentors. The mentors provide advice and help you to clear organisational hurdles and overcome any problems you may have in finding your bearings.

I am attending a secondary technical school (HTL). Is it possible to get academic credit for subjects I have taken at school?

Students at a HTL who have passed certain subjects at secondary level may be able to transfer credit so that it counts towards certain courses run by the university. If you have any questions about a credit transfer, the Programme Director responsible for your chosen programme will be happy to help (e-mail: spl-informatik [at] aau [dot] at).

Examples of credit transfers from a selection of HTLs

Where can I find additional information? Who can I contact with questions?

You can find additional information about the degree programme by reading the Curriculum (PDF) or by visiting the Study Technology webpage. If you have any other questions, the Programme Director will be happy to help (e-mail: spl-informatik [at] aau [dot] at).

This is why the University of Klagenfurt is one of the best young universities in the world …

Top Master’s degree programmes – and what’s more, they’re virtually free!

For most students, a degree programme at an Austrian state university is free. We invest in your education. And you invest your inspiration, your ambition, and your determination to make the world a better place with the help of new knowledge.

You know your professor – and your professor knows you!

One of the features that distinguishes the University of Klagenfurt is the excellent ratio between students and supervising staff. The Master’s degree programmes have been designed to ensure that you are never merely a number; instead you have every opportunity to learn in close exchange with top teachers from the fields of research and practice.

Pursue an international degree with fellow students from all over the world: 11 Master’s degree programmes in English

The following outstanding Master’s degree programmes are taught entirely in English: Artificial Intelligence & Cybersecurity, Cross-Border Studies, English & American Studies, Games Studies & Engineering, Information & Communications Engineering, Informatics, Information Management, International Management, Mathematics, Media & Convergence Management and Management, Economics, and Data Science.

From studying to entrepreneurial success

As a student at the University of Klagenfurt, you don’t need a garage to set up an internationally successful start-up. Instead, we will provide you with all the infrastructure you need. With Build! Entrepreneurship Center Carinthia, inspire! Labs and FabLab, we can offer you three innovation labs right on campus.

Europe’s largest drone hall

With a floor area measuring up to 150 square metres and a height of ten metres, researchers investigating drones have access to cutting-edge research infrastructure at the University of Klagenfurt. This places the Drone-Hub Klagenfurt firmly among the world leaders in this field. The drone technology refined in Klagenfurt will also be on board NASA‘s Mars mission in 2021 and will be used to explore the Red Planet.

Research laboratory for video streaming

This young, dynamic campus is the starting point for global success stories. The company Bitmovin, which specialises in video streaming services, was founded by graduates of the University of Klagenfurt and has established a strong position on the global market in recent years with investments exceeding 50 million dollars. Today, the company conducts research on campus in the ATHENA laboratory, working in close collaboration with teams from the university.

A springboard to research

Our Master’s graduates are highly sought, not only in industry and business, but also in the academic world. The leap to a PhD position is in easy reach – and with close to 400 cooperation partners across all continents, there is a clear path ahead to further academic success.

As close to the game-changers as you can get

Our graduates make the world a better place, they drive innovation, open up new markets and shape the way we will live together in the future. In this, they are guided by luminaries from all over the world, whose research has had a decisive influence on their respective fields – from psychology to information technology, from cultural studies to economics.

Study in a top location!

Klagenfurt lies in the very southern part of Austria, near the Italian and Slovenian border – the Mediterranean, with its incomparable cultural treasures, is not far at all. The campus is within walking distance of the Wörthersee, one of the most beautiful lakes in existence, crystal clear and with drinking water quality. The charming Renaissance city of Klagenfurt offers an incomparable ambience with many cafés, bars and restaurants.

Study at Austria’s most stunning campus university!

The campus of the University of Klagenfurt was founded in 1970 and is located in the immediate vicinity of the Wörthersee. The distances on campus are short, everything is handily nearby and close together. The University of Klagenfurt is equipped with the most modern infrastructure and also has an excellent library, with a comprehensive range of electronic media. The library is open 24 hours a day, affordable dormitories are located in close proximity to the campus.

Studying at a university of international excellence!

The University of Klagenfurt is one of the top 2 % universities worldwide. (Times Higher Education World University Rankings)