Austria is a country in Europe and a part of the European Union, its population exceeds 8.5 mil. The population of the capital Vienna’s metropolitan area exceeds 2.2 mil. German is the official language.
Austria ranks 12th in the world in terms of GDP, which ensures a high standard of living for those residing in the country. The most developed sectors of Austria’s economy are energy, industry, the services sector, agriculture, and tourism. Over 20 million tourists visit Austria, with tourism contributing 9% of the country’s GDP.
The country hosts a number of key international organizations, such as the International Atomic Energy Agency, OPEC, and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe.
The tertiary schools in Austria are divided into 4 types.
22 state universities
13 private universities
21 Fachhochschulen – similar to the German applied science universities
17 Pädagogische Hochschulen or the so-called pedagogical colleges
Bachelor’s programs: 3 yrs.
Master’s programs: 2 yrs.
The teaching methods at the higher education institutions in Austria strictly depend on the type of tertiary school. State universities usually blend theory and practice, unlike the applied science universities, which insist on the training being focused on scientific theories and methodologies. On the other hand, private universities are entitled to select their own teaching methods and structuring of their degree programs.
Over 50 000 international students are admitted to Austrian universities every year, according to a survey of European Migration Network. Austria ranks 7th worldwide in terms of “quality of life for foreigners in the country” according to the Best Countries ranking of USNews. Further, Austria scores an excellent 9/10 from its students and ranks 4th worldwide in terms of students’ satisfaction with education.
Most programs in Austria are taught in German, which requires fluency in German. In recent years, however, some universities are increasingly and intensively offering programs in English. Presently. Over 200 programs in English are being offered in Austria. Some of the most popular specialties among international would-be students are Marketing, Business, IT, and Engineering programs.
The biggest campuses in Austria are in the capital Vienna, in Graz, and Salzburg. According to Times Higher education – the highest position in the global ranking of universities goes to the University of Vienna.
Here is a list of some of the most esteemed universities, according to global rankings:
