FAQs About the Bachelor’s Program in Digital Business Management

Is prior technical knowledge required for the program?

No, the program starts with the basics. Prior technical knowledge is not a requirement for admission. What’s important, however, is a genuine interest in digital topics and a willingness to engage with them in a hands-on way. Coding, data analysis, and AI tools are taught step by step, so that all students—regardless of their prior knowledge—can keep up.

What kinds of jobs are available after graduation?

This degree opens doors in virtually every industry—anywhere companies want to design, automate, or further develop digital processes. Typical entry-level positions include, for example: 

• Data Analyst
• Digital Business Manager
• E-commerce Manager
• IT Project Manager
• AI Application Developer or Business Intelligence Analyst

What is the difference between Digital Business Management and Business Information Systems?

Digital Business Management emphasizes the business side of digitalization: business models, e-commerce, digital marketing, and management skills take center stage. Business Informatics has a more technical focus—with an emphasis on system development and IT architecture. 

Digital Business Management prepares you to lead and implement digital transformation processes in companies, rather than primarily on developing technical systems.

What is the difference between Digital Business Management and other business degree programs?

Digital Business Management is the only degree program in the faculty that consistently combines fundamental business principles with technical skills: programming, AI, data analysis, and automation are required components. If you want to do more than just join the conversation about digital transformation—if you want to help shape it from a technical perspective—Digital Business Management is the right choice for you.

What master's degree options do I have after completing my bachelor's degree?

With this degree, you can transition directly into a master’s program. For example, Digital Transformation Management or Business Development & Management at CU University of Applied Sciences Carinthia. In addition, numerous business- and technology-related master’s programs in Austria and abroad are available, for which this bachelor’s degree provides a recognized foundation.

How does the admission process work?

Applications are submitted online through the CU Carinthia University of Applied Sciences application portal. This is followed by a structured admissions interview to discuss the applicant’s motivation, interests, and suitability for the program. A specific entrance exam in a particular subject area is not required. The key factors are interest, a willingness to learn, and a willingness to engage with digital topics.

How much time do I need to set aside for the part-time degree program?

For the part-time program, you should plan on spending approximately 86 hours per module on preparation and follow-up work in addition to class time. The courses are scheduled in blocks so that they are compatible with full-time employment.

When are the classes held?

Class times in the part-time program are tailored to working professionals. Our clearly defined schedule provides an overview—even before the program begins—of the in-person days and the days with online and hybrid instruction throughout the entire program. You can find the exact times and dates in the current course schedule.

Is attendance mandatory?

Yes, an 80% attendance requirement applies to all courses. For a module with 26 contact hours, this means a minimum of 21 hours of participation (online or in person). Absences due to illness are considered excused upon presentation of appropriate documentation.

Can I take a break from my studies?

Yes, if there are valid reasons, you can apply for a leave of absence from your studies. During a leave of absence, your studies are put on hold.

How and when are exams held?

Exams are primarily held in two formats: Smaller assessments are taken online (flexibly and from any location). The major module exams take place during in-person weekends, always before the regular classes begin. This means that all exam dates are already integrated into the in-person sessions, so you don’t need to schedule any additional appointments. In addition, ongoing assignments—such as practical projects—are factored into the performance evaluation in many modules.

Which programming languages are taught?

The focus is on Python, the most widely used language in the fields of data science and automation. You'll also learn the basics of SQL for database queries, as well as web development concepts for three-tier applications.

What specific tools do we use in our studies?

During your studies, you’ll work with a range of practical tools, such as: MS Power BI, MS Excel (including Power Query and Pivot), MS Visual Studio Code, MS Power Automate, Figma, Trello, OpenProject, SAP, common web content management systems, and the MS Azure cloud computing platform. AI-based tools are also specifically incorporated into the courses.

How much English is required?

English is an integral part of the program. Selected modules include courses in which you can brush up on your English skills for specific business contexts. In addition, you will write and give presentations in English in several modules. The primary language of instruction is German.

When and how does the internship take place?

The professional internship is scheduled for the 6th semester as a standalone block without concurrent coursework. Previous internship experience may count toward this requirement if certain conditions are met.

You can find internship positions in three ways:

• Study & Work—the internship exchange at CU Carinthia University of Applied Sciences, which goes live every October.
• The Career Center at CU Carinthia University of Applied Sciences—personal counseling and recommendations.
• Independent research and fellow students—many students find their internship placements directly through their personal networks. Job offers also frequently arise through interactions with part-time students in the same cohort.

It’s not uncommon for an internship to lead to a concrete job offer.

Does my current job count as an internship (while working full-time)?

If you are already working and your job is related to your degree program, it may be recognized as an internship—provided you can demonstrate that you are applying the skills you acquired during your studies in a practical setting.

What can I write my bachelor's thesis about?

The bachelor’s thesis may be written on a topic of the student’s choice in the field of digital business management. Current topics include, for example, AI applications, data analysis, e-commerce, and digital transformation projects.
Students also have the option of choosing from a list of suggested topics. The program specifically prepares students for academic work and research methods.

Can I write my bachelor's thesis in collaboration with a company?

Yes, partnering with a company is possible and recommended. This allows you to work on a real-world problem while also building valuable professional connections to help you launch your career.

Can I go to university without a high school diploma?

Here you’ll find all the information you need about how to start a degree program without a high school diploma.

Are you still in your final year of high school? You can apply before you graduate by submitting your current transcript—if you’re accepted, you’ll need to submit your high school diploma by the start of the semester.

Is prior knowledge or work experience taken into account?

Yes. If you have already taken exams at another university or completed a degree program in a related field, these credits can be transferred on a case-by-case basis, so you won’t have to repeat coursework you’ve already completed.

To request credit, contact the Academic Administration Office at CU Carinthia University directly; they will review your case individually.

Are there any scholarships or grants available?

Here you'll find all the options for scholarships and financial aid.

Am I eligible for a student grant?

Whether you are eligible for a student grant depends on your personal circumstances, including your income, age, and academic progress. You can find more information and the online application directly on the Austrian Student Grant Authority’s website.

How much does it cost to attend university?

The standard tuition fee is €363.36 per semester, plus the ÖH fee, which is currently €26.20. For students from third countries outside the EU and the EEA, a tuition fee of €500 per semester will apply starting in the winter semester of 2026.