Part-Time Degree in Austria: Models, Experiences & Tips

Why Choose a Part-Time Degree?

Whether you want to specialise in a field, change careers, earn an academic qualification or grow personally – a part-time degree could be the perfect next step.

It allows you to pursue your educational goals without completely disrupting your daily life. You’ll benefit from structured, hands-on learning – right in the middle of real life. Stay flexible, keep moving forward, and develop both professionally and personally.

What Does It Mean to Study Part-Time?

A part-time degree is designed to fit around your life – whether you’re working, caring for family, or balancing other commitments.

• Blocked in-person classes (e.g. Fridays & Saturdays)
• Self-study phases with online tools
• Structured semester schedules
• Long-term planning with a clear timetable

You don’t have to be employed to study part-time – but it’s easy to combine with your job.

Part-Time or Work-Compatible? – Understanding the Term in Austria vs Germany

In Germany, part-time study often means: You must be employed to be admitted.

In Austria, it’s different: A part-time degree usually refers to a programme that is compatible with working life – but employment is not a requirement. Some also use the term work-enabled study.

👉 At the University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt, you’ll find both terms. In line with official terminology, these programmes are accredited as extra-occupational. You don’t need to be employed to study part-time with us.

Who Is a Part-Time Degree Right For?

A part-time degree could be perfect for you if you …

• are already working – full time or part-time.
• have family or caregiving responsibilities.
• are on parental leave or planning a career comeback.
• want to grow independently and stay flexible.

➡️ Ready to explore your options? Book a study consultation now.

Challenges – and How to Overcome Them

A part-time degree requires good planning – especially when you study while working. Common challenges include:

• Managing your time alongside everyday life 🕒
• Staying motivated during stressful periods 🎯
• Balancing work, study, and family 🔄
• Less time for leisure and recovery 🧘

But you’re not alone. At FHWN, a structured study model, flexible tools, personal guidance, and a supportive community help you stay on track.

5 Benefits of a Part-Time Degree

1. Career boost – advance your education without putting your job on hold 🚀
2. Practice-based learning – apply new skills directly in your work 📚
   
3. Strong network – connect with professionals from various industries 🤝
4. Flexibility – study at a pace that fits your lifestyle ⏱️
5. Empowerment – build your focus, organisation and resilience 🧠

Financing & Support Options

A part-time degree is more affordable than you might think – if you know where to look:

• Self-support scholarship – available after at least four years of employment ➞ Details at stipendium.at
• Tax benefits – in many cases, study costs can be claimed as work-related expenses
  
• Employer support – many companies offer time credits or financial assistance for professional development
• Personal advice on funding – our study advisory service is happy to help you find the right options ➞ Book a consultation

What to Expect from a Part-Time Degree at FHWN

At the University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt, part-time degree programmes follow different models – tailored to the needs of each subject area. This means: the structure may vary depending on your field of study.

One example is the new Master’s programme in Sustainable Finance & Digital Transformation*: It combines 50–60% online learning with two to three weeks of in-person sessions (Mon–Fri), spread throughout the semester. In between, you study independently and flexibly. This model offers both structure and freedom – ideal for balancing work and study.

Other programmes, such as Green Marketing & Sustainability Communication or Consumer Research & Data-Driven Marketing, are organised differently: In-person classes take place regularly on Fridays and Saturdays, combined with selected online sessions (e.g. Thursday evenings) and, depending on the programme, one intensive week per semester. This format works especially well for professionals who prefer a consistent weekly rhythm.

What all programmes have in common:

• Predictable in-person blocks – such as full weeks or regular weekend sessions 📅
• Digital tools and learning platforms for flexible preparation 💻
• Personal support from lecturers and programme teams 🤝
• A structured, reliable study schedule 📈

🧐 Did you know? A part-time degree boosts your self-management skills – and many employers consider it a valuable asset.

Bachelor or Master – Your Options at FHWN

Looking for a degree that fits your everyday life – whether you're working, have family responsibilities or simply need more flexibility? At the University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt, you’ll find a wide range of flexible study options:

🎓 4 part-time Bachelor programmes
🎓 23 part-time Master programmes

Whether you’re looking for a career-oriented bachelor or a specialised master – our part-time study programmes offer the flexibility you need to earn your degree while working.

➡️ Explore all English-language degree programmes (Look for the “EO” label – it stands for Extra-Occupational – to find part-time options.)
➡️ Explore all part-time Bachelor programmes
➡️ Explore all part-time Master programmes

Studying Part-Time – What Our Students Say

What does a part-time degree look like in everyday life? Two students share how they experience their studies at FHWN – honest, motivating and straight from real life:

Your Next Step: How to Apply

Got questions or want to discuss your personal situation? Our study advisory team is here for you.

Ready to study part-time – with structure, practical relevance and personal support? Explore your English-language part-time degree options at FHWN and take the next step in your academic journey!