Research & Development – Implementing innovations

Application-oriented and practical – that is how research at UASs can be described. Scientific work flows directly into a new product, an improved service or is further optimised by research for practical use in the industry.

Universities of Applied Sciences cooperate closely in this area with businesses in the region. In this way, students learn early on how to adapt to the real needs of an operating business.

Through their work with the organisations, they already contribute during their studies to success stories when a business, for example, makes decisive improvements to a product, or even produces a new innovation, as a result of their cooperation with a UAS.

Active exchange
The exchange between applied research and UASs takes place through various channels. To begin with, students complete their work placements in a business where they receive a specific and real task to complete, which is then evaluated by the UAS. Additionally, students address current research questions in project papers which are often commissioned by businesses. Discoveries made from trend-setting new developments flow directly into instruction at a UAS. In addition, numerous lecturers come directly from business or a research institution. Theoretical knowledge can be enriched through stories written by real work life.

International networking
Through strong international networking, it is possible to become involved in cross-border projects. In Europe, UASs have a reputation as institutions of learning which best prepare their students according to the latest level of knowledge for future career demands. The research-centred instruction is always at the focus.

Numerous projects
The variety of research projects at UASs speaks for itself, whether it is work on product innovations with pharmaceutical companies or the new or further development of software with an IT firm. Approximately 1200 businesses, non-profit organisations and research institutions throughout Austria cooperate with the UAS sector. This is a contributing factor to the strength of a UAS in Austria – and shows students already during their education how great the possibilities are to gain a foothold in the working world. Bachelor’s and Master’s theses are also frequently commissioned by businesses.

Numerous job possibilities
This close integration is full of even more advantages: Every business that cooperates with UASs on projects is also present at job fairs and in alumni clubs. This opens up job possibilities for students – maybe even in the research department in which they were able to gain experience during their studies.

Academic careers
Whoever discovers a passion for academic work in the lab and is drawn to foundational research has the chance to switch to a traditional university. Thanks to the Bologna System, graduates with a Bachelor’s degree can start a relevant Master’s study programme at a university, and after a UAS Master’s degree, their PhD studies at a university – provided that the required ECTS points have been earned.