University of Klagenfurt
Address: Universitätsstraße 65-67, 9020 Klagenfurt, Austria
Phone: +43 463 2700 0
Email: info@aau.at
Website: www.aau.at
About University of Klagenfurt
The University of Klagenfurt is a young and vibrant university in the very south of Austria. Situated at the intersection of the Alpine and Mediterranean cultures, it benefits greatly from its geographical location. Founded in 1970, the University of Klagenfurt has established itself as a leading academic educational institution and a hub for the acquisition, exchange, and transfer of knowledge across the entire Alps-Adriatic Region.
More than 12,000 students pursue their studies and research on the campus, while around 20 percent are international, representing 100 countries between them. The University of Klagenfurt offers a broad choice of Bachelor’s, Master’s, and doctoral degree programmes in the field of engineering, management and economics, social sciences, culture, and languages. Located in Klagenfurt, a beautiful and picturesque Renaissance town, the University of Klagenfurt is one of just a few campus universities in Austria. The proximity to beautiful Lake Wörthersee makes it the most attractive.
Klagenfurt, with its population of about 100,000, is a buzzy and young city in the very center of Europe, located only 2 hours from the Adriatic Sea. It has many shops, museums and restaurants, lidos, hiking trails, and historic attractions.Its library dates back to the sixteenth century and is by far the largest in Carinthia. It is home to around 1 million books, 50,000 e-books, 14,000 e-journals, and more than 50 licensed databases. As the university’s knowledge center, it is open 24 hours, 7 days per week. Precious historical collections are stored in its archives: the Karl Popper collection, the Joseph Buttinger library, the Goess library, and the Hermann Broch library. The special collections include 30,000 old prints, 700 early prints, 271 incunables, 374 paper manuscripts, and 66 parchment manuscripts.
As a modern, research-driven university, Klagenfurt has numerous strengths but cites particular prowess in Information and Communication Technologies. It focuses on all aspects of ”Humans in the Digital Age, “with a brand new Digital Age Research Center currently being established. The ”Karl Popper Kolleg“ provides promising young researchers at the cutting edge of their fields a forum for long-term synergies.
Why University of Klagenfurt
The University of Klagenfurt is renowned for several reasons:
1. Interdisciplinary Approach
- The university emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach to education and research, allowing for collaboration across various fields. This encourages innovative thinking and comprehensive solutions to complex issues.
2. Strong Research Focus
- Klagenfurt is known for its active research environment, particularly in areas such as information technology, environmental sciences, and social sciences. It participates in numerous national and international research projects, enhancing its academic reputation.
3. Internationalization
- The university has a strong commitment to internationalization, with various partnerships and exchange programs that attract students and faculty from around the globe. This diverse environment enriches the academic experience.
4. Cultural and Historical Significance
- Located in Klagenfurt, Austria’s capital of Carinthia, the university benefits from the region's rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty. The city is known for its historical sites, making it an attractive place for students and researchers.
5. Modern Facilities and Campus
- The university boasts modern facilities and a well-designed campus that enhances the learning experience. This includes libraries, laboratories, and study spaces equipped with the latest technology.
6. Focus on Student Experience
- Klagenfurt is dedicated to providing a supportive and engaging environment for students, offering various services, including counseling, career guidance, and extracurricular activities. This focus on student well-being contributes to its positive reputation.
7. Notable Alumni and Faculty
- The university has produced successful alumni and has attracted distinguished faculty members, enhancing its academic standing and prestige.
The University of Klagenfurt has specific language requirements for its programs, depending on the language of instruction. Here’s an overview:
1. German-Taught Programs
- Language Requirement: Proficiency in German is typically required for most bachelor's and master's programs taught in German.
- Accepted Tests:
- ÖSD (Österreichisches Sprachdiplom)
- TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache)
- DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang)
- Minimum Level: Generally, a B2 level (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) is required.
2. English-Taught Programs
- Several master's programs are offered in English, particularly in fields like business, computer science, and social sciences.
- Language Requirement: Proficiency in English is necessary.
- Accepted Tests:
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- Cambridge English qualifications (e.g., C1 Advanced)
- Minimum Level: A minimum score of around 80 on the TOEFL or 6.5 on the IELTS is typically required, but this may vary by program.
3. Additional Information
- Specific programs may have unique language requirements, so prospective students should check the details on the university’s official website or contact the admissions office for clarification.
- The university also offers German language courses for international students who wish to improve their language skills prior to their studies.
The University of Klagenfurt offers a variety of course specialties across several disciplines. Here are the main areas of focus:
1. Humanities and Social Sciences
- Fields: Cultural Studies, Sociology, History, and Political Science.
- Programs: Courses designed to explore societal issues, cultural dynamics, and historical contexts.
2. Languages and Literature
- Focus Areas: Translation Studies, Linguistics, and Comparative Literature.
- Programs: Degrees in various languages, including English, German, and Slavic languages.
3. Business and Economics
- Disciplines: Business Administration, Economics, and International Business.
- Programs: Emphasis on entrepreneurship, management practices, and economic theory.
4. Computer Science and Information Technology
- Focus: Software Development, Artificial Intelligence, and Data Science.
- Programs: Courses that blend theoretical foundations with practical applications in technology.
5. Environmental Sciences
- Fields: Environmental Management, Sustainability, and Ecology.
- Programs: Interdisciplinary courses that address environmental challenges and promote sustainable practices.
6. Education
- Areas: Teacher Education and Educational Research.
- Programs: Designed for future educators, focusing on pedagogical skills and research methodologies.
7. Media and Communication
- Focus: Media Studies, Communication Science, and Journalism.
- Programs: Courses that analyze media impacts on society and develop skills in communication and reporting.
The University of Klagenfurt has several notable associations with Nobel Prize winners, particularly in the fields of literature and peace. Here are some distinguished laureates linked to the university:
1. Peter Handke
- Field: Literature
- Nobel Prize: Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2019.
- Contributions: Recognized for influential work that explores the themes of language, meaning, and existence. Handke is known for his innovative narratives and has had a significant impact on contemporary literature.
2. Robert Schuman
- Field: Peace (for contributions to European integration)
- Contributions: Although he did not receive a Nobel Prize personally, his work laid the foundation for the European Union, which has been recognized with the Nobel Peace Prize.