Wirtschaftsuniversität Wien, Vienna University of Economics and Business Administration - Undergraduate
Ranked the number one university in Austria, WU Wien has a long history of International Business expertise. WU Wien's excellent contacts in the business world along with its prestigious image have made this business school well known in the EU community. While enjoying the state-of-the-art infrastructure and service facilities, students will find themselves in a challenging learning environment where innovation, leadership and diversity are key.
Location
Vienna (Wien) is a unique blend of the historic and the modern. Vienna's role as the seat of the Hapsburg Empire for centuries can be seen in the wealth of architecture and in the city's artistic and musical heritage. Many of the world's most important composers including Beethoven and Mozart have lived and performed behind Vienna's Baroque façades. In addition to the city's Baroque splendour, there are excellent examples of Art Nouveau (Jugendstil) architecture that also flourished here.
Business Environment
In addition to being the capital, Vienna is Austria's economic powerhouse and takes the lead in the administrative, cultural and educational sectors. It is also an important centre for international business, and is one of the most sought-after conference venues in the world.
Austria continues to build on its trade with Western Europe (three-quarters of its trade is with EU nations, and Germany is its most important trading partner). At the same time, it is a major player in the expanding markets of Eastern Europe. Overall, it has good ties with its neighbours to the east, and this translates into strong economic relationships (some 14% of exports are to Eastern European nations).
Since it has a small domestic market, Austria is highly dependent on exports. The country has a highly skilled workforce, and has the fortune of having congenial labour-management relations. Austrians have a high standard of living (within the top 15 countries worldwide) and the competitive marketplace means that consumers demand high standards of quality and service.
Approximate Term Dates
Fall (Winter Semester): October – January (alternate arrangements can be made to write final examinations early)
Winter (Summer Semester): February – June
*Two week Exchange Student Orientation prior to each semester.
Academic Information
WU Wien’s preferred teaching methods are lectures, tutorials and project work and/or workshops, and seminars. Attendance is mandatory, and class participation is usually part of the final grade. Class sizes range from 15 to 30 students.
Credit Equivalency
30 ECTS credits = 15 SSB credits
Approximately 4 – 6 courses
Language
German and English
German Language courses are available throughout the year. An intensive German program is offered before each term for a small fee. There are currently approximately 70 – 100 courses taught in English.
Computer Facilities
Exchange students have free access to all computer facilities at WU Wien (German and English systems). Internet and e-mail are also accessible.
Type/Availability of Accommodation
There are several residences available to students with single and shared bedrooms. Room contract is fixed for 5 months. To guarantee a room in one of the three student residences, students must send their complete and signed booking form and deposits directly to the Housing Office by their deadline.
Health Insurance
Minimal insurance is provided through the mandatory fee paid to the Austrian Students Union upon enrolment. It is strongly recommended after enrolment that you get a "Freiwillige Selbstversicherung" voluntary insurance (but you must enrol first). Travel insurance is another option.
Visa
For visa information, please contact:
Austrian Consulate General
400-2 Bloor St. W.
TORONTO, Ontario
M4W 3E2
Tel: +1 (416) 967 3348
Fax: +1 (416) 967 4101
email: toronto@austriantrade.org
Web site: http://www.austriantrade.ca
Buddy Program
The Austrian Union of Students works to ensure that the stay of every foreign exchange student is comfortable by providing them with a “buddy” via its Buddy Network program. These “buddies” are domestic students that provide advice and practical support. The WU Students’ Union arranges for exchange students to be met by a designated buddy. In addition, if a foreign exchange student arrives outside the university hours, his/her designated buddy will pick up their room keys for them in advance.
Cost of Living
(Exchange Rate Link http://www.bank-banque-canada.ca/english/exchform.htm)
Further Research
The official Web site for WU Wien is:
http://isc.wu-wien.ac.at/en/index.htm
*For more information on Wirtschaftsuniversität Wien (WU), please visit the Resource Library in Room W263.