Business and Law
Bachelor's degree programme
Accounting, Taxation, Controlling and Information Systems – you will master all of these in the Bachelor’s programme in Business and Law. Plus, we offer Law as an extra bonus. You will become a multidisciplinary all-rounder representing the ideal corporate counterpart for legal professionals. Students who wish to qualify as lawyers after completing their Bachelor’s degree have full access to all legal professional fields upon graduating from the Master’s degree programme in Business Law.
There’s no admission procedure, so register for the Bachelor’s degree in Business and Law now and keep your options open for your future career!
Fact Box
Duration:
ECTS credits:
Level of qualification: Bachelor's degree programme
Degree:
Prerequisites:
Special admission procedure:
Language of instruction:
Curriculum (PDF)
Range of courses
6
semestersECTS credits:
180
Level of qualification: Bachelor's degree programme
Degree:
Bachelor of Science (BSc)
Prerequisites:
General university entrance qualification, knowledgeof German B2
Special admission procedure:
No
Language of instruction:
German, some English
Curriculum (PDF)
Range of courses
Contact
Student Guidance Service
E-Mail: studieninfo [at] aau [dot] at
Office of the Programme Director
Website of the Programme Director
E-Mail: Sandra [dot] Vidoni [at] aau [dot] at
Facebook: Contact on Facebook
To achieve economic success you need a sound theoretical foundation based on state-of-the-art scientific know-how. And you need the determination to roll up your sleeves, come up with ideas and translate them into action. With us, you will be supported in both! The Bachelor’s degree in Business and Law will furnish you with the ideal toolbox that will accompany you on your way up the career ladder – in an established company, in your own start-up, or in the public sector.
The Bachelor‘s programme in Business and Law provides you with the big law bonus: Companies need to have a sound legal footing in order to achieve success in the long term! This degree course qualifies you as an all-rounder in (business) law, who is well-versed in dealing with contracts and understands the jargon of the various legal professions. This unique combination will ensure your future as an indispensable key player in corporate management.
If you decide to become a lawyer or judge yourself, we have some excellent news for you. If you pursue your Bachelor’s programme in Business and Law and then complete the Master’s degree programme in Business Law, you will have full access to all professional fields of law.
Do you feel concerned that your academic knowledge might be of limited practical use and that you would be “educated without regard to the market”? We've got good news for you: Here you will learn not only from internationally renowned experts in the field of research, but also from top practitioners operating in the world of business. Around 40 percent of our lecturers are highly successful in the professional field. Get started on developing your personal “Circle of Excellence” while you are still studying and pursue your studies accompanied by ambitious idea generators and energetic movers and shakers.
Curious what the Bachelor's degree programme in Business and Law is all about?
Term dates & deadlines
Winter semester 2026/27
General admission period for Bachelor’s degree programmes:
6 July 2026 – 5 September 2026
Summer semester 2027
General admission period for Bachelor’s degree programmes:
8 January 2027 – 5 February 2027
Why study Business and Law at the University of Klagenfurt?
Our student Fabian has the answer to your question!
You are special. So are we.
This is what makes the degree programme so special
- Practical AND theoretical: Professionals in business administration don’t simply do stuff, but rather: they know exactly what to do. And they know that whatever they do leads to success. With the knowledge you learn here in Klagenfurt you will be state of the art, and can put what you have learned straight into practice. To give you a taste of the genuine business atmosphere while you are still studying, you can complete an internship – the hours will be credited as part of your studies!
- Can’t decide whether to do business or law? You don’t have to! Our Bachelor's programme in Business and Law offers you the necessary foundations for both. This is your chance to keep all your career options open.
- 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.
- 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, even in our so-called “large-scale” degree programmes. 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.
Focused studies. Our core topics
- Company Law: What constitutes a company, what are the advantages and disadvantages of the different forms of incorporation, how should invoices be prepared and what are the rules governing business transactions? These are the issues that will be addressed in this area of study.
- Private Law: Private law regulates the legal relationships between (private) citizens.
- Public Law: In contrast to Private Law, Public Law regulates the organisation of the State and the relationship between the citizens and the State.
- Labour and Social Law: What rights do employees have and what should be taken into account when drawing up employment contracts? Matters of human resources involve the application of Labour and Social Law.
- Accounting: The performance of a company is expressed in figures. We introduce you to bookkeeping and financial accounting.
- Taxation: Companies want to operate in a “tax-friendly” way. Here in Klagenfurt you will learn the most important basics of business tax theory and tax law. For those who would like to work as a tax consultant at a later date, this degree programme offers those important first training steps.
- Controlling and Strategic Corporate Management: Just how well a company performs can be measured by a wealth of data. Controllers keep an eye on the key metrics and are therefore able to inform the decisions of corporate management.
- Corporate Finance: How can companies optimise their capital structure? What dividend policy should be pursued? How are decisions on investments made and how is the value of a company determined? In this area, you will receive answers to these questions and many more besides.
- Non-profit Management: Non-profit organisations should also be run profitably – to maximise environmental, human rights or educational benefits. We can show you what to pay particular attention to when dealing with NPOs.
- Public Management: It's not only private companies that need to be well managed, the public sector needs good managers too.
- Economics: In any given society, goods and factors of production are produced and distributed, but we, as human beings, also act "economically", i.e. we generate benefits for the individual or for a community.
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. Business decisions often have far-reaching consequences: They determine the economic success of companies and public institutions – and ultimately affect people’s jobs. Those who make knowledge-based decisions have a clear advantage! Anyone who, in addition to this, can always be sure that they are on legally sound ground enjoy a bonus that will really pay off in their future career.
- Everything you need for the practical setting. Around 40 percent of our lecturers are highly successful in the professional field. We make sure that you can apply the knowledge you have gained in practice.
- 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 you: Business and Law (this programme allows you to continue your studies) as well as Business Law (in cooperation with the University of Vienna and with an even stronger focus on law, after which you will have full access to all legal professions).
Where we are and how we are seen
- The capital in the south of Austria
Klagenfurt am Wörthersee is a city of about 100,000 inhabitants and the capital of Carinthia, set in a region known for its stunning lakes, mountains, and forests. - We are distinguished by our students!
The University of Klagenfurt has received two Global Student Satisfaction Awards from Studyportals (The Global Study Choice Platform). In addition, on StudyCheck.de – the largest German-language student review platform – 97 % of students recommend the University of Klagenfurt.
- We are AACSB accredited!
Since 2023, the Faculty of Management, Economics and Law has been accredited by AACSB International (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business). Less than 6 % of business schools worldwide earn this distinction. - Top quality is our standard!
The University of Klagenfurt is committed to high-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”).
Best prospects. Your professional opportunities
After completing your Bachelor’s degree in Business and Law, you can work in a wide range of professional fields, including the following areas:
- Versatile all-round talent with enhanced decision-making skills: The Bachelor’s degree in Business and Law qualifies you to take on roles as a responsible, reflective and critical decision-maker and facilitator in the sphere of business.
- Corporate legal expert: Business and Law provides you with extensive legal knowledge! In the business world you will become an indispensable key player with a strong focus on the full range of legal issues.
- Create your own start-up: The degree programme equips you with all the tools you need to start your own business. Be your own boss and turn your business idea into reality!
- All things financial: Controlling and finance departments offer well-paid positions everywhere for those who enjoy working with numbers!
- Taxation: Should you wish to pursue a career as a tax consultant, the Bachelor‘s degree in Business and Law will serve as ideal starting point for your professional education.
Stories & news about the degree programme
You’ll soon discover this: There are many interesting facts, stories and news updates regarding this degree programme.
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
| Subject | Designation | ECTS credits |
|---|---|---|
| Business and Economics | ||
| Required Subjects | General Business Administration | 32 |
| Financial Accounting | 16 | |
| Economics | 8 | |
| Methods in Social and Economic Sciences | 10 | |
| Introduction to Gender Studies | 1 | |
| Restricted Electives I | Choice of one of the following subjects as specialisation:
| 8 |
| Restricted Electives II | Choice of one of the following subjects as specialisation:
| 8 |
| Law | ||
| Required Subjects | Introduction to Law and Corporate Law | 8 |
| Private Law | 12 | |
| Public Law and Public Sector Commercial Law | 12 | |
| Labour and Social Law | 12 | |
| Tax Law | 12 | |
| Complementary fields of law | 12 | |
| Restricted Electives III | One seminar from the special focus areas
| 4 |
One seminar from the special focus areas
| 2 | |
| Restricted Electives IV | Competence development / internship | 8 |
| Unrestricted Electives | 9 | |
| Bachelor's Thesis | 6 | |
| Total | 180 | |
Introductory and orientation period (STEOP)
The introductory and orientation period (STEOP) grants an overview of the key elements of the degree programme and of the course of studies ahead. Thus, it provides a factual basis for your personal evaluation of the choice of degree programme.
As students must successfully complete the introductory and orientation period in order to continue their studies, it is recommended that the introductory and orientation period should be scheduled during the first semester. The introductory and orientation period accounts for 10 ECTS credits and includes the courses "Introduction to Business Administration" and "Introduction to Economics", and "Basic Concepts of Public and Private Law". Prior to completing the STEOP, additional courses worth up to 22 ECTS credits may be taken.
Recommended course of study
The recommended course of study outlined below shows you an exemplary list of the courses you should attend in the first two semesters in order to create a good knowledge base and take the necessary examinations if you want to complete your studies within the minimum period of study. Certain courses are only offered once per academic year, but examinations can be taken on specific dates throughout the year. Some courses are offered in parallel at different time slots during the week so that there are enough places for all students – decide on a course here and register for it.
In the appendix to your curriculum (PDF), you will find a detailed version of the non-binding recommended course of study that goes beyond the first two semesters.
1st semester (Starting in the winter semester)
| DESIGNATION | SUBJECT | ECTS CREDITS | COURSE TITLE | TYPE OF COURSE |
| STEOP (Introductory and orientation period) | Required subject 1.1 | 4 | Einführung in die Betriebswirtschaftslehre | VO |
| Required subject 3.1 | 2 | Einführung in die Volkswirtschaftslehre | VO | |
| Required subject 8.1 | 4 | Grundbegriffe des öffentlichen Rechts und des Privatrechts | VO | |
| General Business Management | Required subject 1.3 | 4 | Entrepreneurship & Innovation | VO, VI* |
| Required subject 1.4 | 2 | Investition & Finanzierung | VO, VI* | |
| 2 | Investition und Finanzierung** | KS* | ||
| Required subject 1.5 | 4 | Public & Nonprofit Management** | VO, VI* | |
| Accounting | Required subject 2.1 | 2 | Externes Rechnungswesen I | VO, VI* |
| Required subject 2.3 | 2 | Internes Rechnungswesen I | KS* | |
| Private Law | Required subject 9.1 | 4 | Privatrecht I | VO |
| Total | 30 |
* Compulsory attendance
** Parallel courses are offered
| DESIGNATION | SUBJECT | ECTS CREDITS | COURSE TITLE | TYPE OF COURSE |
| General Business Management | Required subject 1.2 | 4 | Personal und Organisation | VO, VI* |
| Required subject 1.6 | 4 | Marketing Grundlagen | VO, VI* | |
| Accounting | Required subject 2.4 | 4 | Internes Rechnungswesen II** | KS* |
| Required subject 2.2 | 4 | Externes Rechnungswesen II** | KS* | |
| Required subject 2.5 | 4 | Financial Accounting | VO, VI* | |
| Methods in the Social and Economic Sciences | Required subject 4.1 | 6 | Methoden I: Mathematik | VO, VI* + KS* |
| Introduction into Gender Studies | Required subject 5.1 | 1 | Grundlagen zu Gender Studies | VO |
| Public Law and Public Commercial Law | Required subject 10.1 | 4 | Öffentliches Wirtschaftsrecht | VO |
| Total | 31 |
* Compulsory attendance
** Parallel courses are offered
Studying abroad
The Bachelor’s degree in Business and Law prepares you for a career in the world of business. We will teach you the necessary knowledge of English as a business language. No matter whether you want to work in the management of a Austrian company, or whether you are drawn to Amsterdam, Bangkok or New York: This degree programme will give you the best possible preparation. If you want to give your career an even stronger international focus you can spend a semester abroad developing your professional skills and improving your language and intercultural competences at the same time. The world is yours to explore – and you can get started while you are still studying. For more information on international mobility during your degree programme, please refer to Section 7 of the curriculum.
This degree programme does not include a compulsory period abroad. However, we strongly encourage all students to complete part of their degree programme as a semester abroad at one of the University of Klagenfurt’s more than 250 partner universities worldwide. You need not worry about your finances – we offer plenty of scholarships. You will find everything you need to know about studying abroad on our Study Abroad page.
Internship
You can complete a relevant internship in the field of law as an alternative to the guided elective bundle IV. Here you can test and apply the legal knowledge and skills you have gained. The relevant internship must comprise at least 100 working hours or 4 ECTS credits. Please refer to section 15 of the curriculum for more information.
Learning goals
| Graduates will be/have | Graduates will be able to: |
| business knowledge | … explain the basic principles of business. |
| skilled at solving business problems | … identify a business problem and select appropriate solutions/methods. |
| skilled at solving legal problems | … identify a legal problem and select appropriate solutions/methods. |
| academic literacy | … research business/ legal problems by drawing on their academic skills. |
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.
Prerequisites
You do not have to go through a special admission procedure to start the Bachelor‘s degree in Business and Law 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!
Continuing your studies
Once you have completed the Bachelor's degree programme in Business and Law at the University of Klagenfurt, you have the option to continue your studies with one of the following degree programmes, to give just a few examples. The choice is yours:
FAQ. Frequently asked questions
Is the degree programme in Business and Law the right one for me?
Are you interested in what lies behind various developments in the economy and how legal and economic principles evolve? Then this is the perfect degree programme for you. Given the increasing number of regulations and laws that have an economic rationale, it is particularly important to have interface expertise combining the economic and legal dimensions in your day-to-day professional life.
Can I enter the legal profession after completing my Bachelor’s degree?
Jobs in the core legal professions cannot be pursued after the Bachelor’s programme in Business and Law. However, you will have the option to enrol in the Master’s programme in Business Law and gain the degree of Master of Laws, which entitles you to practice all legal professions, such as judge, lawyer or notary.
What job prospects do I have after this degree course?
When choosing a job, naturally it all depends on where your focus lies. Graduates of this programme are, however, highly sought-after in major companies in the legal sector, in banks, insurance companies and government service sectors. Of course, you can also specialise in the field of tax law.
Is the knowledge of Latin a prerequisite for this degree programme?
You can also take this programme without any knowledge of Latin.
Which Master’s programme can I start after this Bachelor’s programme?
After the Bachelor’s programme in Business and Law you can choose between the Master’s programmes in Business and Law and Business Law.
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.
