Worlds of English
Bachelor's degree programme
Starting in the winter semester 2026/27, the Bachelor’s programme Worlds of English will feature a new curriculum. One new element is the choice of a minor worth 30 ECTS credits, which you are free to select yourself. This allows you to tailor your studies to your personal interests and set your own individual academic focus.
Starting in the winter semester 2026/27, the Bachelor’s programme Worlds of English will feature a new curriculum. One new element is the choice of a minor worth 30 ECTS credits, which you are free to select yourself. This allows you to tailor your studies to your personal interests and set your own individual academic focus.
English is by far the most spoken language across the world with almost 2 billion first and second language speakers. In addition, English is the principal common language internationally and the world’s foremost global language. Are you also fascinated by the worlds of English languages and cultures?
Why not become an intercultural expert of language, literature, and culture and join the Bachelor's degree programme Worlds of English!
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!
6
semestersECTS credits:
180
Level of qualification: Bachelor's degree programme
Degree:
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Prerequisites:
General university entrance qualification, knowledge of English B2
Special admission procedure:
No
Language of instruction:
English
Curriculum (PDF) – German version, legally binding!
Contact
Student Guidance Service
E-mail: studieninfo [at] aau [dot] at
Office of the Programme Director
Website of the Programme Director
E-mail: anglistik [at] aau [dot] at
Student Representatives
E-mail: oeh [dot] anglistik [at] aau [dot] at
Are you fascinated by the English language or English literatures and cultures? For fans of English, we can offer a Bachelor‘s degree programme that will teach you comprehensive knowledge and skills: Firstly, you will learn the English language to a very high standard and will be able to see through its structures and functions. In this way, you will not only become proficient as a speaker and writer of English, but you will also learn how the language develops, diversifies and is used for specific effects and purposes.
Secondly, we will also introduce you to the cultures of the anglophone countries. We look at what shaped these countries historically and what their cultural position is today. The benefits to you are clear: Nowadays, intercultural skills are considered to be key competences which you can rely on throughout your professional life!
Graduates of the Bachelor‘s programme Worlds of English become experts in the English language, linguistics, literature and in anglophone cultures. Students learn in direct exchange with our internationally respected lecturers and scholars of English, not only in Klagenfurt, but also in English-speaking countries. Would you like to improve your English alongside the canals of Birmingham? Or maybe you are drawn to multicultural Hong Kong or the University of New England in Armidale, Australia? We strongly encourage all our students to spend part of their studies in anglophone regions and have excellent contacts to facilitate these exchanges. Discover the English (language) worlds for yourself, and you’ll soon become a versatile expert! The language skills you acquire will serve you well all your life!
Curious what the Bachelor's degree programme in Worlds of English 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 Worlds of English at the University of Klagenfurt?
Our student Mara has the answer to your question!
You are special. So are we.
This is what makes the degree programme so special
- Practical AND theoretical: If you think that an internship can’t be combined with a degree in language studies, think again! We can help you to complete an internship comprising 300 hours in an English-speaking country. Eligible organisations include universities, cultural institutions, museums, libraries, language courses and many others.
- International setting: All communication, teaching, and learning at our department is in English only, immersing you in an anglophone world. You simply can’t get enough of foreign languages? Russian, Spanish, Chinese, Italian, French – we offer a wide range of language classes to help you prepare for your career, wherever you choose to live and work. The University of Klagenfurt is chosen by young people from all over the world, which means you will be able to meet fellow students from across the globe.
- We will accompany you on your journey. Are you nervous about being unnoticed 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 large degree programmes. We want to know who you are, what moves you and what you want to achieve. That’s why we offer excellent supervision arrangements, small seminars and compact working groups and our ears and doors are always open for your concerns.
Focused studies. Our core topics
- Language practice: You will learn English up to level C2, the highest level of excellence according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
- Methods: Studying a language means learning much more than just the language. We will teach you how to grasp content on a higher level, how to establish connections and critically examine them, and how to make creative use of your knowledge for new applications.
- Language reflection: All languages are different and highly versatile means of expression. How they are used depends on the situations, for example, where they are used, where they are spoken, and what their social value is. Together we will explore all facets of language as our most important medium of communication.
- Culture & literature: What defines a popular genre like Science Fiction or a specific tradition of writing? How does literature evolve from the times of Shakespeare to AI narratives? Together, we will analyse and criticise cultural and literary products – from poems to video games, from election campaign speeches to novels.
- Intercultural skills: Explore the social, historical, cultural, political and economic situation in each language area. We will show you how to deal with cultural differences in a sensitive and problem-focused way – and how to use these skills successfully in your professional life!
Your skills are our mission. This is what we can teach you
- Languages at first hand. Our teachers are internationally accomplished experts in the field of English! This means that you will learn from people dedicated to teaching the language with its many different dimensions.
- 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. Students who opt for a language degree programme also assume responsibility for humankind: language skills are vital bridges between cultures!
- 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 a Master’s degree programme that is specially tailored to you: Master’s programme Worlds of English, with your chosen focus on linguistics or on literary and cultural studies. Should you wish to further expand your portfolio, the Master's degree programmes Game Studies and Engineering, Cross-Border Studies, or Visuelle Kultur may be just the thing for you. The choice is yours!
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 Worlds of English, you can work in a wide range of professional fields, including the following areas:
- (Cross-border) communication: Your Bachelor‘s degree in Worlds of English will qualify you as a communications expert in the English language. No matter whether you want to pursue your career in journalism, public relations or advertising: You can put your communication skills to excellent use!
- The cultural sector: Your Bachelor‘s degree in Worlds of English will prepare you to become a cultural intermediary!
- Publishing companies: Publishing is an international business. With almost two billion people who speak English as their first or second language, and many more who read in English, the market for English language publications is vast.
- Archives & libraries: They are vital resources of culture and rely on experts to preserve knowledge and to convey it in print and digital forms to the world.
- Translation: Our degree programme offers you the basic building blocks for literary and professional translation and some of our graduates work as translators.
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 | Recommended semester |
| Required subjects | Introductory and Orientation Period (STEOP) | 13 | 1 |
| Basic and Advanced Studies Language | 33 | 1-6 | |
| Basic and Advanced Studies Linguistics | 15 | 2-4 | |
| Basic and Advanced Studies Literature | 15 | 2-4 | |
| Basic Studies Culture | 9 | 2-4 | |
| Advanced Studies | 12 | 4-5 | |
| Guided electives | Linguistically Oriented Electives | 12 | 4-5 |
| Literary and Cultural Studies Oriented Electives | 12 | 4-5 | |
| Specialisation | 12 | 5-6 | |
| All offered courses | Work placement | Gender Studies | 12 | 1-6 | |
| Open electives | 20 | 1-6 | |
| Bachelor's thesis | 15 | ||
| 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 this stage should be scheduled during the first semester. The introductory and orientation period within the Bachelor's degree programme Worlds of English at the University of Klagenfurt comprises the following courses ("Introduction to Linguistics 1", "Introduction to Literary Studies 1", "Introduction to Academic Language Studies", "British OR American OR Postcolonial Cultures: History and Society") and a placement test (modular examination: "Placement Test") amounting to a total of 13 ECTS credits. Further courses, for which the completion of the introductory and orientation period is a prerequisite, may not be taken before this stage has been completed. 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 | 1 | Placement Test | FP* |
| Required subject 1.2 | 3 | Introduction to Linguistics I | VO | |
| Required subject 1.3 | 3 | Introduction to Literary Studies I | PS* | |
| Required subject 1.4 | 3 | British Culture: History and Society (in the winter semester)
or American Culture: History and Society (in the summer semester) or Postcolonial Cultures: History and Society |
VO | |
| Required subject 1.5 | 3 | Introduction to Academic Language Studies | KS* | |
| Basic and Advanced Studies Language | Required subject 2.1 | 3 | Language Awareness I | KS* |
| Required subject 2.2 | 3 | Language Productive and Receptive Skills | KS* | |
| Required subject 2.3 | 3 | English for Academic Purposes | KS* | |
| Required subject 2.4 | 3 | Pronunciation | KS* | |
| Required subjects, Guided electives D/E, Open electives | 5 | Choose from the courses of the Required subjects, the Guided electives D/E or the Open electives (see curriculum §§ 9, 10 and 11) | ||
| Total | 30 |
* Compulsory attendance
2nd semester
| DESIGNATION | SUBJECT | ECTS CREDITS | COURSE TITLE | TYPE OF COURSE |
| Basic and Advanced Studies Language | Required subject 2.5 | 3 | Language Awareness II** | KS* |
| Required subject 2.6 | 3 | Advanced Language Productive and Receptive Skills** | KS* | |
| Basic and Advanced Studies Linguistics | Required subject 3.1 | 3 | Introduction to Linguistics II** | VO |
| Required subject 3.2 | 3 | Development of English | VO | |
| Basic and Advanced Studies Literature | Required subject 4.1 | 3 | Introduction to Literary Studies II** | PS* |
| Required subject 4.2 | 3 | Literary Terminology and Practice of Interpretation | VO | |
| Basic Studies Culture | Required subject 5.1 | 3 | Topics in British Cultural Studies (Choose a course) | PS* |
| Required subjects, Guided electives D/E, Open electives | 9 | Choose from the courses of the Required subjects, the Guided electives D/E or the Open electives (see curriculum §§ 9, 10 and 11) | ||
| Total | 30 |
* Compulsory attendance
** For these courses, the completion of courses from the first semester is a prerequisite for participation. Detailed information can be found in the course description in the student portal and in the curriculum under § 13.
Studying abroad
As a student at King’s College in London, you can stroll through the streets of London between lectures and discover the multicultural metropolis, or why not spend a semester exploring Mississippi State University, which counts John Grisham among its former students? A period abroad offers you numerous opportunities to develop your professional skills and improve your language and intercultural competences at the same time. The experience you gain during a period abroad also plays an important role in understanding cultural studies. 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 substitute the guided elective subject D (12 ECTS credits) with an internship in a country where English is used as lingua franca. This internship must be completed during the course of the degree programme and should comprise at least 300 hours. It is the responsibility of the competent programme director to decide whether the internship qualifies for recognition. Please refer to section 10 of the curriculum for more information.
The Bachelor’s programme Worlds of English from the winter semester of 2026/27
Starting in the winter semester of 2026/27, the Bachelor’s degree programme Worlds of English will feature a new curriculum.
This is the structure of your degree programme
Your Bachelor’s degree programme consists of required courses totalling 90 ECTS credits, guided elective courses amounting to 48 ECTS credits, a Bachelor’s thesis worth 12 ECTS credits, and a minor amounting to 30 ECTS credits.
| Subject | Designation | ECTS credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required Subjects | Introductory and Orientation Period (STEOP) | 12 |
| Basic and Advanced Studies Language | 27 | |
| Basic and Advanced Studies Linguistics | 15 | |
| Basic and Advanced Studies Literature | 15 | |
| Basic Studies Culture | 9 | |
| Advanced Studies | 18 | |
| Guided Electives | Linguistically Oriented Electives | 12 |
| Litrature and Cultural Studies Oriented Electives | 12 | |
| Specialisation | 12 | |
| Diversity & Gender | 12 | |
| Bachelor‘s Thesis | 6 | |
| Minor | Choose one minor | 30 |
| Total | 180 | |
Choose from these minors:
You can customise your Bachelor’s programme by selecting a minor worth 30 ECTS credits, allowing you to tailor your studies to your personal interests and career goals.
Choose the minor that best suits your interests from the fields of culture, languages, technology, economics & management, law or society.
Minors totalling 30 ECTS credits
Culture
Available for selection from summer semester 2026
Available from winter semester 2026/27
- Ethik
- Kultur und Gesellschaft
- Kulturgeschichte
- Philosophie
- Sprache, Literatur und Kultur (B/K/M/S, Russisch oder Slowenisch)
- Sprache, Literatur und Kultur (Französisch, Italienisch oder Spanisch)
Economics & Management
Available for selection from summer semester 2026
- Business and Economics
- Soziale Kompetenz, Organisation und Leadership | Social Competence, Organisation and Leadership
Available from winter semester 2026/27
- Economics EN
- Entrepreneurship und Innovation
- Management
- Sprachen und Wirtschaft im Alpen-Adria-Raum und in Europa
- Wirtschaft und Recht
Languages
Available for selection from summer semester 2026
Available from winter semester 2026/27
- Alpen-Adria-Region – Fokus Sprachen
- Sprache, Literatur und Kultur (B/K/M/S, Russisch oder Slowenisch)
- Sprache, Literatur und Kultur (Französisch, Italienisch oder Spanisch)
- Sprachen und Wirtschaft im Alpen-Adria-Raum und in Europa
Law
Available from winter semester 2026/27
- Einführung in die Rechtswissenschaften
- Wirtschaft und Recht
Society
Available for selection from summer semester 2026
- Friedensforschung und Friedensbildung
- Gender und Diversität
- Soziale Kompetenz, Organisation und Leadership
- Sustainability and Energy
Available from winter semester 2026/27
- Digital Health EN
- Diversitätskompetenz und Chancengerechtigkeit
- Ethik
- Geographische Perspektiven auf Umwelt, Wirtschaft und Gesellschaft
- Grundlagen der Psychologie
- Inklusion gestalten
- Kultur und Gesellschaft
- Personal- und Kompetenzentwicklung
- Philosophie
- Social Sciences EN
- Wirtschaftspsychologie
- Wissenschaftskommunikation und Public Engagement
Technology
Available for selection from summer semester 2026
Available from winter semester 2026/27
- Angewandte KI
- Computer Game Engineering
- Digital Health EN
- Mathematische Grundlagen
- Optimization and Decision Making DE oder EN
- Statistical Learning EN
For detailed information on the language of instruction and possible combinations of individual minors, please refer to the individual minor pages.
EN = conducted in English | DE or EN = conducted in German or English
Information on the minors available from winter semester 2026/27 will be published shortly.
As of February 2026. Subject to change.
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
- General university entrance qualification (e.g. Matura)
- Knowledge of English B2 (CEFR)
To be completed at the beginning of the programme
Oxford Placement Test
For the Bachelor’s degree programme Worlds of English , you have to demonstrate proficiency in the English language at level B2 in the “Oxford Placement Test”, which is taken during the introductory phase of the programme. We advise you to take the Placement Test as early as possible. The Oxford Placement Test takes a maximum of 80 minutes and is taken online. The test is a prerequisite for certain courses in the curriculum.
Must be proved in the course of the programme
Knowledge of Latin
If you took Latin at secondary school (at least a total sum of 10 weekly hours across all grades), this is sufficient for the Bachelor's programme Worlds of English. If you do not have proof of the required knowledge, you will have to take an additional Latin examination before the final assessment in the Bachelor’s programme. Suitable courses are available at the University of Klagenfurt.
If you took Latin at secondary school (at least a total sum of 10 weekly hours across all grades), this is sufficient for the Bachelor's programme Worlds of English. If you do not have proof of the required knowledge, you will have to take an additional Latin examination before the final assessment in the Bachelor’s programme. Suitable courses are available at the University of Klagenfurt.
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 Worlds of English 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 this the right degree programme for me?
Do you love to read books in English? Do you prefer to watch British films and series in their original language? Then a degree in Worlds of English could be interesting for you. Consider this: Choosing a degree programme or an occupation is a long-term process, and it’s ok to take plenty of time over it. If you would like some help with your decision, you can contact Student Counselling Services and make an appointment for a free consultation.
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 it possible/mandatory to spend a semester abroad as part of this degree programme?
As a student of Worlds of English , you will certainly be interested in other countries, cultures and languages. We therefore warmly recommend that students complete part of their studies abroad. The experience you gain during your time abroad is a vital element of our cultural understanding.
We have a network of over 250 partner universities worldwide. If you would like to study somewhere else for a while, the world is yours to explore – make the most of this opportunity! You can find detailed information at: Study abroad
Can I work while I study?
The degree programme has not been designed for students who work part-time, though many of our students do work. It depends on your own ability to organise and your flexibility whether this is feasible for you. Some courses take place weekly and involve an attendance of approximately 2 hours. Others are blocked, e.g. over a weekend, from 9 to 5. You can create your own individual schedule. If you are looking for help with this, the ÖH (Austrian National Union of Students) can assist you!
Where can I find additional information? Who can I contact with questions?
Please refer to the Curriculum (PDF) and our website for further information on all aspects of studying. If you have additional questions, you can also contact the Programme Director directly.
