International Business and Economics
Bachelor's degree programme
There are no limits to your professional career: In this age of digitalisation and globalisation, we need worldly-wise managers who can track down market opportunities around the globe.They are equipped with tools that can be used universally: Accounting, Controlling, Marketing, Human Resources Management, Logistics, Data Analytics, Economics. The English language Bachelor’s programme in International Business and Economics will qualify you as an all-round talent who can be deployed anywhere in the world.
Register now for the Bachelor’s programme in International Business and Economics and get ready to embark on your international career!
Fact Box
Duration:
ECTS credits:
Level of qualification: Bachelor's degree programme
Degree:
Prerequisites:
Special admission procedure:
Language of instruction:
Curriculum (PDF) (German version, legally binding)
Curriculum (PDF, English version)
Range of courses
6
semestersECTS credits:
180
Level of qualification: Bachelor's degree programme
Degree:
Bachelor of Science (BSc)
Prerequisites:
General university entrance qualification, knowledge of English B2
Special admission procedure:
Yes
Language of instruction:
English
Curriculum (PDF) (German version, legally binding)
Curriculum (PDF, English version)
Range of courses
Contact
Student Guidance Service
E-mail: studieninfo [at] aau [dot] at
Programme Director
Dmitri Blüschke
E-mail: Dmitri [dot] Blueschke [at] aau [dot] at
Do you feel at home all around the world? Do you like to keep an eye on globally connected markets? We can offer you an education that imposes absolutely no limits on your career. Whether in Shanghai, Rio de Janeiro, Silicon Valley, Moscow or London – wherever you go, you can roll up your sleeves and guide companies to success with drive and determination. For your long-term economic success, we can provide you with a complete package: We will equip you with a solid theoretical foundation based on the latest scientific know-how. At the same time, you will learn to use all the practical tools that you will need for your rapid progress – be it in an existing company, in a start-up or in the public sector. We gather the best students from all over the world for the degree programme in Klagenfurt, and we communicate in English throughout the entire programme.
Here, you will become an internationally qualified all-rounder – with a strong background in the following areas: What new business areas are opening up as a result of digitalisation? Do you have the right instincts to market products and services globally? Do you have the potential to become an interculturally skilled HR professional? Are you more of a numbers person who wants to know which key figures lead to success? Or are you someone who has a holistic view of the economy? We cover these and all other important fields.
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 international “Circle of Excellence” while you are still studying and pursue your studies alongside ambitious idea generators and energetic movers and shakers from all over the world.
Curious what the Bachelor's degree programme in International Business and Economics is all about?
Term dates & deadlines
To start the Bachelor’s degree programme in International Business and Economics in Klagenfurt, you need to go through a special admission procedure.
Registration period for the special admission procedure
12 January to 23 February 2026
Why study International Business and Economics at the University of Klagenfurt?
Our student Julia 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 with one of our international cooperation partners – the hours will be credited as part of your studies!
- 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 degree in “International Business and Economics“ prepares you for your stellar international career.
- 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. We only accept a maximum of 50 students per academic year – and we pick the best minds by means of an admission procedure. 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.
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”).
Focused studies. Our core topics
- Accounting: The performance of a company is expressed in figures. We introduce you to bookkeeping and financial accounting.
- Economics: In any given society, goods and services are produced and distributed, but we, as human beings, also act “economically”, i.e. we generate benefits for the individual or for a community. Here in Klagenfurt you will gain a holistic and analytical view of all economic matters – be they large or small.
- International Economics: How is the global exchange of goods organised and who is in the lead when it comes to import-export balance sheets? Which new markets can be developed globally? But also: What are the effects of our economic system on global inequality and what can we do to counteract them?
- Service Management: Around 70 percent of total value added in Austria (as in Germany) can be attributed to the service sector. So it’ s definitely worth the effort to keep developing services. We introduce you to market research, customer satisfaction and loyalty management, quality and customer complaint management.
- 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 management decisions.
- 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.
- Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship: Admittedly, there are those who get together with friends to tinker on a new product in their garage, make a pitch for a million-dollar investment and then triumph on the world market. To bring innovations to market, you also need luck. We will provide you with the knowledge you need to ensure your entrepreneurial fortune is lasting.
- Marketing and International Management: Products and services have to be marketed in order to ultimately find consumers – regionally as well as globally. We introduce you to market-oriented business management.
- Energy and Sustainability: In which direction is e-mobility developing and how can money be earned in the long term using sustainable means? We will work with you to find answers to these questions.
- Human Resources, Management and Organisation: While flat hierarchies dominate in one company and people tend to be on familiar terms, at another, strict processes might help to ensure clear structures. Very often a company’s approach to its staff and the way it defines itself as an organisation is critical to its success. We can show you what human resources management is really all about.
- Production management and logistics: How do you deliver emergency supplies to disaster areas? What are the global networks that shape the production of goods? We take a closer look behind the global supply chains.
- Public Management: It’s not only private companies that need to be well managed, the public sector needs good managers too.
- Law: We will teach you the fundamentals of law that you will later use in your professional work in the business sphere.
- 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. At the same time, we will also take a look at international tax law.
- Sociology: The individual is not alone in the world. Neither can the economy be detached from society. Gain a deeper insight into our social behaviour.
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 management 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!
- 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 you: Applied Business Administration , but also International Management (in English) and Media and Convergence Management (in English).
Best prospects. Your professional opportunities
After completing your Bachelor’s degree in International Business and Economics, you can work in a wide range of professional fields, including the following areas:
- Internationally versatile all-round talent with enhanced decision-making skills: The Bachelor’s degree in International Business and Economics qualifies you to take on roles as a responsible, reflective and critical decision-maker and facilitator in international business contexts.
- 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, turn your business idea into reality and distribute it around the world!
- Economics: You will learn to determine which markets have the potential for growth and are suitable targets for your company. Many corporations have come to appreciate the holistic and analytical view, thus ensuring that success does not only serve the company, but is beneficial for all of us.
- All things financial: Controlling and finance departments offer well-paid positions everywhere for those who enjoy working with numbers!
- Innovation Management: New things are good. But new things need fertile economic soil in order to flourish. You will emerge as an innovation expert who can successfully explore new market segments.
- Service Management: Keeping customers is less expensive than winning new ones. Either way, you need properly organised service processes.
- Human Resources Development: Headhunters, or so-called human resources managers, are often used in the race for the best brains.
- Marketing/Advertising: If customers do not perceive a desire to make a purchase, even the best product or the best service won’t be sold. We’ll transform you into a versatile marketing professional.
- Production and Logistics: What is produced and where? And how does it get from A to B – and ultimately to the customer? If you can keep a cool head and take well-founded decisions in the midst of the ever more complex global network, you too will join the corporate ranks of the high-flyers.
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 | Rec. semester |
|---|---|---|---|
| Required Subjects | Principles of Business | 34 | 1-4 |
| Principles of Economics | 18 | 1-3 | |
| Introduction to Sociology | 4 | 2-4 | |
| Introduction to Gender Studies | 4 | 2-4 | |
| Intercultural and Scientific Skills | 4 | 1 | |
| Methodology in Business and Economics Research | 26 | 1-3 | |
| Topics in International Business | 16 | 3-6 | |
| Topics in International Economics | 16 | 3-6 | |
| Guided Electives I | Students must complete two electives to the value of 12 ECTS each. Students can choose from the electives listed below:
| 24 | 4-6 |
| Guided Electives II | Students must either complete one elective to the value of 16 ECTS credits, or two electives to the value of 8 ECTS credits each
| 16 | 4-6 |
| Open Electives | 10 | 4-6 | |
| Bachelor’s thesis & seminar | 6 + 2 | 5-6 | |
| | Total | 180 | |
Introductory and orientation period (STEOP)
The introductory and orientation period (STEOP) 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.
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 within the Bachelor's degree programme in International Business and Economics at the University of Klagenfurt comprises four courses ("Introduction to Business", "Introduction to Economics", "Intercultural Skills" and "Scientific Skills") amounting to a total of 8 ECTS credits. 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 | 2 | Introduction to Business | VO |
| Required subject 2.1 | 2 | Introduction to Economics I | VO | |
| Required subject 5.1 | 2 | Intercultural Skills | KS* | |
| Required subject 5.2 | 2 | Scientific Skills | VC* | |
| Principles of Business | 12
(3×4 ECTS credits) |
Choose three courses from the Required subject 1: | ||
| Required subject 1.2 | BUS 1: Financial Reporting | VO | ||
| Required subject 1.3 | BUS 2: People and Organizations | VO | ||
| Required subject 1.6 | BUS 5: Public Management | VO | ||
| Required subject 1.8 | BUS 7: Operations Management, Logistics and Purchasing | VI* | ||
| Principles of Economics | Required subject 2.2 | 4 | ECON 1: Introduction to Economics II | VO |
| Methodology in Business and Economics Research | Required subject 6.1 | 6 | Mathematics | VU* |
| Total | 30 |
* Compulsory attendance
| DESIGNATION | SUBJECT | ECTS CREDITS | COURSE TITLE | TYPE OF COURSE |
| Principles of Business | 12
(3×4 ECTS credits) |
Choose three courses from the Required subject 1: | ||
| Required subject 1.4 | BUS 3: Entrepreneurship & Innovation | VI* | ||
| Required subject 1.5 | BUS 4: Capital Budgeting and Financing | VO + KS* | ||
| Required subject 1.6 | BUS 5: Public Management | VO | ||
| Required subject 1.7 | BUS 6: Marketing | VO | ||
| Required subject 1.9 | BUS 8: Management Accounting | VO | ||
| Principles of Economics | Required subject 2.3 | 6 | ECON 2: Microeconomics | VC* |
| Methodology in Business and Economics Research | Required subject 6.2 | 6 | Methodology 1: Mathematics II | VU* |
| Required subject 6.3 | 6 | Methodology 2: Statistics | VO + KS* | |
| Total | 30 |
* Compulsory attendance
Studying abroad
The Bachelor’s degree in International Business and Economics prepares you for a career in the international business arena. We will teach you the necessary knowledge of English as a business language and will communicate with you in English throughout your studies. No matter whether you want to work in the management of a local company with an international focus, or whether you are drawn to a non-profit organisation in Amsterdam, Bangkok or New York: This degree programme will give you the best possible preparation. The world is yours to explore – and you can get started while you are still studying. You can complete your internship with an international cooperation partner or alternatively spend a semester abroad, developing your professional skills and improving your language and intercultural competences at the same time. 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 have the option to complete an internship (worth a total of 16 ECTS credits) with one of our national or international cooperation partners from the field of science or industry. Alternatively, you can earn 16 ECTS credits (or more) at a foreign university when you spend a semester studying abroad. For more information, please refer to the curriculum (sections 7, 10 and 15).
Learning goals
| Graduates will be/have: | Graduates will be able to: |
| business knowledge | … explain the basic principles of business. |
| an interdisciplinary mindset | … describe interdisciplinary relationships (e.g. business-economics, business-technology, business-sociology, business-law, etc.). |
| skilled at solving international business problems | … identify an international business/economics problem and select appropriate solutions/methods. |
| academic literacy | … research international business/ economics problems by drawing on their academic skills. |
Special admission procedure
To start the Bachelor’s degree programme in International Business and Economics in Klagenfurt, you need to go through an admission procedure. But no need to panic: Careful preparation always pays off! You simply register for the admission procedure, upload a letter of motivation and study the contents of a few book chapters. Following the admission procedure, we can award 50 university places per academic year. The fact that the number is limited is to your advantage: You are not an invisible element within a huge mass, but rather we have the opportunity to encourage and challenge you as an individual.
Registration period for the special admission procedure
12 January to 23 February 2026
Prerequisites
You must also meet the following conditions, which also apply to all other programmes:
- General university entrance qualification (e.g. school leaving certificate such as "Matura" or "Abitur", high school diploma)
- English language skills at level B2 (CEFR)
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 International Business and Economics 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 International Business and Economics the right one for me?
Are you interested in current economic challenges in a global context and do you want to know about the various differences in the world’s financial markets and learn to take a global view? Do you want to identify and help shape the challenges of the future? Then this English language Bachelor’s programme is perfect for you.
What level of English proficiency do I need for this degree programme?
According to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, you need level B2. This means that you are able to understand the overall content of more demanding texts and that you can communicate spontaneously and fluently.
How does the admission procedure for IBE work?
The admission procedure for this degree programme consists of two parts. You need to register, upload a letter of motivation and then you can take the exam. In total, we can award 50 places for students.
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.
Who can I contact if I have questions about the content of the degree programme?
If you have any questions regarding content, please contact the programme director at ibec [at] aau [dot] at.
What job prospects do I have once I graduate?
Upon graduating from this degree programme, you will have what it takes to be a big player and you can launch your career in any number of business fields around the world.
What do I need to know for the admission examination?
The online examination is held in English. This exam tests your understanding of the specified literature. The examination literature is available for download on the webpage for the special admission procedure.
