Master Business Administration

Change is the only constant: technological, environmental and societal change, new business models, declining certainty in planning and less and less stability. These are the challenges that companies face in today's global competition. As a graduate of the Master's degree programme in Business Administration, you will have the perfect solutions at hand.

The Master's degree programme in Business Administration provides you with the theory-based methodological and professional skills they need to comprehend and manage the intricate problems of an increasingly complex society. Your expertise allows you to meet new challenges head-on and continuously develop your know-how.

The degree programme keeps you up to date with the latest research in economics and management, and equips you with the tools you need to keep reinventing and developing yourself in the future. For you, life-long learning is not a challenge, but the norm.

In addition to gaining a sound theoretical education, you will also get comprehensive insights into business management practice. You can expect practice-oriented courses and experts who work in the field. During your studies you are immersed in an environment of innovation and technological excellence: Close cooperation with the Lakeside Science & Technology Park and international state-of-the-art companies guarantees you unique perspectives on the corporate world, which will open doors for a successful career launch and further progression.

Fact-Box

Duration:

semesters
ECTS credits:

120

Level of qualification: Master's degree programme
Degree:

Master of Science (MSc)

Prerequisites:

Yes

Special admission procedure:

Language of instruction:

German, English

Curriculum (PDF)
(German version, legally binding)
Range of courses

We believe: The world of business needs innovative minds like yours. We will pave your way to the top – without a special admission procedure!
Are you ready to secure your place at university?

Find out more now!

You are special. So are we.

This is what makes the degree programme so special

Top professional and formal competences
Unique personal development opportunities
Practical insights into an innovative corporate environment
Experience abroad is easy to integrate into the degree programme

Contact

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

Office of the Programme Director
Website of the Programme Director
E-mail: spl-abw [at] aau [dot] at

Student Representatives
Website of the Student Representatives
E-mail: oeh [dot] abw [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 has received a Global Student Satisfaction Award.
(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”)

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

You will gain a range of scientific skills, and you can really put them to good use. Business management decisions often have far-reaching consequences: They determine the economic success of companies and public institutions – and ultimately people’s jobs. People who make knowledge-based decisions have a distinct advantage! Those who can also always be sure that they are on solid legal ground have a bonus that will pay dividends later.

All you need in the practical setting. Around 40 percent of our lecturers are also successful practitioners. What we offer you is not abstract, but rather something that allows you to soar.
Triumph with soft skills. The world of work needs team players who are able to operate in a creative and goal-oriented manner, regardless of subjects and cultures. In our seminars you will learn how to boost inspiration and efficiency in group work. Here, you will develop into a moderator and manager of projects.
Aim for the sky after graduation. Graduates in this field typically find a job straight after graduation and are highly sought after on the job market.

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!

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 stucture: a tabular overview
Subject	Designation	ECTS
Compulsory subjects	Expansion of competences	12
Compulsory subjects	Methods	12
Guided electives	For the specialisation, choice of three subjects (12 ECTS credits each) Accounting Business taxation Controlling and strategic corporate management Energy and sustainability management Finance Innovation management Marketing and internationales management Humanresources, leadership, organisation Production management and logistics Public, nonprofit and healthcare management	36
	For the specialisation, choice of one subject Entrepreneurship Legal aspects of establishing and running a business Sociology Selected topics in economics	12
	In-depth seminar on guided electives	4
Internship	Internship	11
Internship	Seminar reflecting on the internship	1
Master's thesis	Master's thesis	19
Master's thesis	Seminar(s) accompanying the Master's thesis	4
Open electives		8
Final overall exam		1
*Total*		12

Practical training

During the Master’s degree programme, students can complete a relevant internship in acompany in Austria or abroad, in public administration or in a non-profit organisation for a period of two months. The weekly working time must be at least 30 hours. The successfully completed internship is worth 11 ECTS credits. Successful completion involves taking part in a seminar aimed at dealing with the experience in the field (1 ECTS) and preparing a written report on the experience and reflecting on it in a scientific manner.

Learning goals

Learning goals of the Master’s degree programme Business Administration: a tabular overview
Graduates will be/have	Graduates will be able to
deep business knowledge	… demonstrate their in-depth understanding of the principles of business.
interdisciplinary thinkers and actors	… appraise interdisciplinary relationships (e.g. business-economics, business-law, business-sociology) beyond mere business knowledge.
highly skilled at solving complex business problems	… evaluate current and future business challenges and implement and reflect appropriate solutions/methods.
independent and reflected	… independently research challenges arising at the interface of business and law by drawing on their academic skills.

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 world of work in the future. We have lots to offer, for instance:

We are living in the age of digital transformation: The extension programme “Digital Competences” will equip you with the perfect amount of computer science knowledge needed for your professional career.
Are you interested in collaborating in groups, teams and organisations to achieve the best possible results? In the extension programme “Social Competence and Organizational Learning SCOL“ we will show you how project and conflict management, mediation processes and moderation techniques can succeed.
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.

Specialist courses & optional subjects

Extension programmes

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

Admission

Admission to the Master’s Dregree Programme Business Administration must occur within the admission periods.

Non-EU and non-EEA citizens: The application for admission to a Master’s degree programme must be received in its entirety by 5 September for admission for the winter semester or, respectively, by 5 February for admission for the summer semester.

Important enrollment information

The Admissions and Examinations Office can be visited after an appointment has been made. Appointments are made as follows:

Students need to book an appointment via the student portal (campus.aau.at) via the menu on the left under Services and the button “Appointment bookings”.
Applicants need to book an appointment via the registration portal and the tab “Appointment bookings”.
Applicants without access to the registration portal may book an appointment via the general booking page at appointment.aau.at.

Admission to Master’s degree programmes

Online Registration

Prerequisites

You do not have to go through a special admission procedure to start the Master's degree programme in Business Administration in Klagenfurt.

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

A relevant Bachelor’s degree programme or a degree programme of equivalent academic value at another post-secondary educational institution
Information on Bachelor’s degree programmes that are relevant for admission (PDF)
Proof of proficiency in German at Level B2 of the CEFR
Students whose first language is not German must prove knowledge of the German language (language level B2).
A the time of application, German language skills of at least level A2 must be demonstrated (Proof of language proficiency). German courses and exams are offered as part of the VAAU pre-study course by www.dia.at .

Prospective students who apply for admission to a Master's degree programme and whose first language is not the language in which the degree programme is conducted must provide evidence of language proficiency at the required level at the time of application.

Term dates & deadlines

Winter semester 2023/24

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

General admission period for other programmes:
10 July to 31 October 2023

Go to Term dates & deadlines

Summer semester 2024

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

General admission period for other programmes:
08 January 2024 – 31 March 2024

Go to Term dates & deadlines

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.
Our student guidance service is here for you if you need some support as you start your studies. You can reach us via WhatsApp, e-mail, phone or our social media channels.
At the ÖH student union Info Days at the start of each semester experienced students provide advice about your chosen degree programme and share useful insiders’ tips.

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

Get in touch with us now!

Best prospects. Your professional opportunities

There are no limits to your career. This degree programme will equip you to compete and thrive in a dynamic professional environment. The Master’s degree programme also enhances your career opportunities: Invest two years now – and benefit throughout your entire professional life.

Typical fields of work include: Management, project leadership (e.g. controlling, finance, taxation), human resources development, public and non-profit management, marketing/advertising, production and logistics management, energy and environmental management, innovation and entrepreneurship, research and development.

Join our community

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

Ruslan Ivantsov/Adobestock

Preventing the circulation of empty lorries and goods trains

Foto: aau/Müller

Do decisions turn out better when they are taken by multiple people?

aau/Müller

Not every business school graduate makes an effective NPO manager

Looking for guidance and advice?

Are you interested in the Master's degree programme in Business Administration 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

The world is your own!

The Master’s degree programme in Business Administration prepares you for your career in business. We provide you with the necessary knowledge in English business language. Regardless of whether you want to work in management in a Carinthian company or whether you are drawn to Amsterdam, Bangkok or Boston: This degree programme provides you with the best possible preparation. 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

FAQ. Frequently asked questions

Is the Master’s degree in Business Administration the right programme for me?

Are you interested in learning how to make strategic business decisions? Do you want to gain a deep understanding of business administration and train your skills to think and act like an entrepreneur? The Master’s degree programme in Business Administration is designed for exactly this purpose and offers you a scientifically sound and at the same time practice-oriented education in line with the times.

Which Bachelor’s degrees allow me to continue straight onto this Master’s programme?

A relevant Bachelor’s degree programme such as the Bachelor’s programmes in Applied Business Administration, Business Administration, Information Management, International Business and Economics, Economics and Law, and Management Information Systems at the University of Klagenfurt.

What other relevant degrees allow me to enter the programme?

Other relevant programmes of at least the same level of higher education, which have provided management and economics knowledge amounting to at least 60 ECTS credits. If the student has completed another degree programme of at least the same level of higher education and only a few additions are needed in order to reach the required minimum ECTS credits, additional courses and examinations amounting to a maximum of 30 ECTS credits may be prescribed. These supplementary examinations must be completed by the end of the second semester of the Master’s programme.

What is the language of instruction in this Master’s degree programme?

German. Students whose first language is not German must prove knowledge of the German language at level B2.

What are my career prospects after graduating?

The Master’s degree programme allows you to launch your career in many business areas or to realise your own business concept. The following areas are particularly relevant:

Strategic corporate development
Personnel development and/or personnel recruiting
Marketing
Public and non-profit management
Finance
Production and logistics management
Entrepreneurship
Energy and environmental management

Where can I find out if I am eligible for admission?

Please contact the Programme Director by e-mail abw [at] aau [dot] at

Continuing your studies

Once you have completed the Master’s degree programme in Business Administration you can continue straight on to the following degree programme:

Doctorate in Social and Economic Sciences

Doctoral Degree Programme

Degree programme

These Masters’s degree programmes may also be of interest

Information Management

International Management

Media and Convergence Management

Business Law

Master’s degree programmes

Looking for guidance and advice?

Are you interested in the Master's degree programme in Business Administration 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

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)

Master Business Administration

Fact-Box

You are special. So are we.

This is what makes the degree programme so special

Contact

How we are seen

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

Have we got what you need?

Programme structure

Main areas

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

Admission

Important enrollment information

Prerequisites

Term dates & deadlines

Winter semester 2023/24

Summer semester 2024

The first steps are always … accompanied!

Best prospects. Your professional opportunities

Join our community

Looking for guidance and advice?

The world is your own!

FAQ. Frequently asked questions

Continuing your studies

Doctorate in Social and Economic Sciences

These Masters’s degree programmes may also be ­of ­interest

Looking for guidance and advice?

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!

You know your professor – and your professor knows you!

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

From studying to entrepreneurial success

Europe’s largest drone hall

Research laboratory for video streaming

A springboard to research

As close to the game-changers as you can get

Study in a top location!

Study at Austria’s most stunning campus university!

Studying at a university of international excellence!

These Masters’s degree programmes may also be of interest