The PhD in Practice program is designed for artists seeking to advance their research in the context of contemporary art practices. It emphasizes critical thinking, studio experimentation, and developing a unique artistic voice. Students are supported to produce a doctoral project that contributes to the field of art. This program fosters a community of innovative artists, preparing them for academic and professional careers.
The program covers advanced research methodologies, focusing on the interplay between theory and practice within the arts. Students tailor their studies to their individual research interests.
Organized across six semesters, the program supports independent projects alongside occasional seminars and annual presentations of research findings.
Graduates develop a unique expertise at the intersection of practice and research in the arts, equipping them for academic, artistic, or consultancy roles.
Periods can differ for EU/EEA and non-EU applicants. Always confirm on the official site before applying.
Summer 2025
No tuition
EU/EEA students, within the standard study period (plus the ~€25 ÖH student union fee per semester).
€727 / semester
Non-EU / third-country rate. Always confirm on the official site.
€ 25,20 ÖH-Beitrag plus gegebenenfalls anfallende Studiengebühren im Umfang von € 363,36 bzw. € 726,72
Third-country (non-EU/EEA) applicants generally need to have their prior qualifications legalised and translated for the admission application. Exact rules depend on the country that issued each document — always confirm with the university's admissions office.
Program-specific items — a CV, letter of motivation, an entrance exam (e.g. GMAT, GRE, SAT) or a portfolio — vary by degree. Check this program's requirements above and its official page.
The level of legalisation your certificates need depends on your country of origin:
Apostille
If your country is part of the Hague Apostille Convention, an Apostille from the competent authority of the issuing country is sufficient.
No legalisation
A small number of countries have a bilateral agreement with Austria and need no further legalisation.
Full diplomatic legalisation
For all other countries: the full chain — pre-certification by the issuing country's authorities (e.g. Ministry of Education and Ministry of Foreign Affairs), then legalisation by the competent Austrian representation (embassy/consulate).
Translations are usually done after legalisation. Check the required order with the issuing authorities and the Austrian representation.
After admission: proof of sufficient funds, health insurance and the student residence permit are part of the visa process — not university admission. We cover those in the guides.
Founded in 1692, the Academy of Fine Arts Vienna is one of Europe's oldest art academies, focused on fine arts, scenography, conservation, and architecture.
Visit university site€350–€650 / month (dorm room)
1040 WienSingle rooms, double roomsAkademikerhilfe
Mayerhofgasse 3, 1040 WienSingle & shared roomsAkademikerhilfe
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