Working while studying

What Does It Mean to Study Part-Time?

The University of Applied Sciences offers numerous part-time Bachelor's and Master's degree programs. These programs are organized so that working professionals spend fewer hours on campus each week. In-person classes are usually held on Friday afternoons and evenings, as well as Saturdays.

Anyone considering a part-time degree alongside employment should be aware of the personal responsibility involved. Balancing work and studies requires a great deal of discipline and self-management. The UAP supports students through this flexible study model and aims to assist them with organization and planning. The most important aspect of this type of study is being honest with yourself. If you feel that managing both work and studies would be too much, that is perfectly fine and nothing to be ashamed of. Everyone has different limits when it comes to handling stress and workload.

By the way, not having a job is not a disqualifying factor for enrolling in a part-time degree program. So don't hesitate to apply for a Bachelor's or Master's program simply because it is offered in a part-time format.

Working During a Full-Time Degree Program

Working while pursuing a full-time degree is possible, but it requires a great deal of discipline. Full-time programs are designed with the expectation that students will spend a significant amount of time on campus and attend more weekly classes than students in part-time programs.

If you plan to work while studying for a full-time Bachelor's or Master's degree, it is important to communicate this openly and honestly. Speak with both your program director and your employer about what this arrangement means and how it can be managed. However, keep in mind: Your job should not interfere with your studies. Schedule your working hours in a way that still gives you enough time to study and attend classes regularly.

Again, be honest with yourself. If you find that balancing both commitments becomes too overwhelming, there is no shame in reducing your working hours or stopping work altogether. Any professional experience you gain is valuable and will help you move forward in your career.

What Is an Internship?

As part of your Bachelor's or Master's degree program, you will be required to complete a professional internship. But how does this internship differ from other forms of work experience?

Detailed information about the internship requirements for your degree program can be found in your program's study information. If you have additional questions, please contact your program's administrative office.

The UAS is known for its strong focus on the practical application of academic knowledge. A key component of this practical approach is the professional internship, which typically takes place during the 5th or 6th semester. During the internship, you gain real-world professional experience by working approximately 40 hours per week for around 12 weeks.

Your internship position must be approved and recognized by your program director. Whether you complete your internship in Austria or abroad is entirely up to you. However, if you are planning to go abroad, you should communicate your plans openly and early on.

At the annual Career Fair, which takes place at the different campus locations, you can speak with representatives from a variety of companies and explore potential opportunities. You can even filter participating companies according to their suitability for your degree program, making it easier to find opportunities that match your field of study.

Let's Talk About It - Applying for Jobs in Austria

Many students are looking for jobs in Austria, no matter where they were socialized. Being it a full-time, a part-time or a side-job, there are some specifics to the Austrian labor market and especially the job application process that are good to know. Have you ever thought of how to find a good company to work with or if your CV is attractive to Austrian human resource managers? Many questions were answered and hints given by Dipl.-Kulturw. Univ. Vanessa Prüller, being long experienced in lending advise for job-seeking international students.