This program prepares students for a career in social work, emphasizing practical skills and theoretical knowledge. It offers insights into social issues and strategies for effective intervention. Graduates can work in various capacities within social services, community organizations, and NGOs.
Topics covered include social research methods, policy analysis, human rights, and innovative social practices. Emphasis is placed on both theoretical foundations and practical applications in diverse social settings. Students are encouraged to engage in interdisciplinary studies to broaden their perspective on social issues.
The program is part-time, allowing students to balance study with other commitments. Teaching occurs primarily on weekends with contextual studies offered in block weeks or during evening sessions. A comprehensive final thesis project enables students to explore a topic of their choice under supervision.
Graduates gain advanced competencies in social work practice, research methodologies, and social policy development. They develop skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaborative work, preparing them for leadership roles in social services.
Periods can differ for EU/EEA and non-EU applicants. Always confirm on the official site before applying.
Spring 2026
€363 / semester
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.
ÖH-Beitrag: € 25,20, Studiengebühren: € 363,36 / Semester
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.
FH Vorarlberg in Dornbirn is western Austria's applied-sciences hub for engineering, design, business, and social work, embedded in the Rhine Valley's industrial cluster.
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