Changes at the university make it easier for everyone to study abroad

Eisenstadt/Pinkafeld, 25 August 2026. 66 % of students at the University of Applied Sciences Burgenland have opted for a part-time study programme. This means they study partly online and partly in intensive weekend blocks. On average, they are 28 years old, have a job and often also have a family or care responsibilities. Studying abroad for a semester – which is quite common during a degree programme – is not easy for this group. To ensure that an international study experience is accessible to all, the university is increasingly offering opportunities for so-called ‘short-term mobility’ programmes as part of the Erasmus+ funding scheme. Around 100 students took advantage of this opportunity last year.

A new mindset towards internationalisation

“Short-term mobility programmes offer a flexible way to gain international study experience that is particularly well suited for part-time students,” explains Birgit Rivalta, Head of the International Office at the University of Applied Sciences Burgenland. Instead of a whole semester abroad, the focus is on short stays – at least five days on site, supplemented by a compulsory virtual component. This makes it easier for students with jobs and care responsibilities to take part in an international exchange. At the same time, their lecturers expand their international networks.

Strengthening an institution-wide mindset centred on internationalisation is a key priority for the university. Partnerships exist with more than 110 higher education institutions in over 30 countries. These short-term mobility programmes are organised in cooperation with several – or at least three – higher education institutions from three different programme countries, and involve at least ten participants. Participants are awarded three ECTS credits for taking part. “So it’s not a short holiday, but an academic exchange with the added benefit of internationalisation,” says Rivalta. Funding generally covers at least the travel costs for students.

Student-friendly university still has a few places available

A close-knit atmosphere, student-friendly conditions and support on an equal footing – these are the advantages of studying at the University of Applied Sciences Burgenland, which graduates consistently highlight after completing their studies. In terms of content, the degree programmes stand out for their strong practical focus and expert teaching staff.

For those who act quickly, there are still a few remaining places on some degree programmes. For information and enrolment, visit www.hochschule-burgenland.at.

Press release

Press photo

For further enquiries, please contact: Mag.a Christiane Staab │ Marketing and Communications │ Burgenland University of Applied Sciences GmbH │ Tel: +43 (0)5 7705 3537 │ Email: christiane.staab(at)hochschule-burgenland.at