FAQs About the Bachelor’s Program in Digital Tax & Accounting

Who is the Digital Tax & Accounting program suitable for?

This program is designed for anyone who wants to combine business topics with digitalization. It is particularly important to have an interest in taxes and accounting, analytical and systematic thinking, a sense of responsibility, and a passion for teamwork and innovative technologies.

What is Digital Tax & Accounting?

Digital Tax & Accounting is a specialization within the Bachelor’s program in Business Administration. It combines the fundamentals of business administration with tax law, accounting, and digital technologies. You’ll learn how digital solutions and data-driven processes are used in companies as well as in tax consulting and auditing firms.

What kind of course content can I expect during my studies?

The curriculum includes, among other topics, accounting, cost accounting and management accounting, tax law, payroll accounting, corporate law, and consolidated financial reporting. These areas are supplemented by ERP systems, business intelligence and analytics, IT law and security, digital tax and IT accounting, as well as practical case studies in tax consulting.

What sets Digital Tax & Accounting apart from a general business degree?

In addition to a broad foundation in business, you’ll receive specialized training in taxation, accounting, and digitalization. This program was developed in collaboration with the Academy of Tax Advisors and Certified Public Accountants and is closely aligned with the demands of professional practice.

What digital skills does the program teach?

You’ll work with business software, ERP systems, digital interfaces, workflow management, business intelligence, and data analytics. Other topics include IT security, data protection, and digital transactions with clients and tax authorities. Through this, you’ll learn how to further develop digital processes in tax and accounting.

Is the program practical?

Yes, the program combines academic fundamentals with practical applications in tax consulting, auditing, and management accounting. Integrated case studies, practical sessions, and the required professional internship allow you to apply your knowledge directly to real-world professional challenges.

What role does digitalization play in college?

You'll learn how processes and procedures in tax and accounting can be supported and further developed through digital means. This includes digital transactions with clients and tax authorities, as well as the secure use of digital systems.

Will I work with ERP systems and business software during my studies?

Yes, business software and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems are integral parts of the program. This will give you insights into digital business systems used to centrally capture and organize operational data and processes.

What is the importance of data analysis and business intelligence?

Through quantitative data analysis and business intelligence and analytics, you will learn to evaluate financial data in a structured manner. This knowledge will help you prepare information to support decision-making in the areas of taxation, accounting, and business.

Does the degree program prepare students for careers in tax consulting and auditing?

Yes, this program was specifically designed to prepare students for positions of responsibility in the fields of tax consulting and auditing. The curriculum is tailored to the professional and digital requirements that employees in accounting firms face in their day-to-day work.

What is the Study & Work Program?

With Study & Work, you can gain professional experience at a participating tax consulting or auditing firm while you’re still in school. The program is offered in collaboration with the Academy of Tax Consultants and Auditors. An annual Meet & Greet event helps you connect with the participating firms.

Can I work while attending school full-time?

Yes, it is possible to gain your first professional experience while pursuing your studies. Specific time slots in the course of study can be used for this purpose. Suitable employers can be found through the Study & Work program.

Is attendance required?

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

Can I study Digital Tax & Accounting while working?

Yes, the program is offered both as a full-time and part-time option. In the part-time option, classes are held during six in-person weekends and regularly on Tuesday or Wednesday evenings online. In addition, some Saturdays may be scheduled as hybrid sessions.

Can I take a break from my studies?

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

How long does the program last, and what degree will I receive?

The Digital Tax & Accounting bachelor's program lasts 6 semesters and comprises 180 ECTS credits. Upon successful completion, you will be awarded the academic degree of Bachelor of Arts in Business (BA). The language of instruction is German, and classes are held on the Villach campus.

What are the admission requirements for this program?

You must have a general university entrance qualification, a vocational entrance examination, a subject-specific university entrance examination, or an appropriate professional qualification along with supplementary exams. For German-language degree programs, proficiency in German at the B2 level or higher is required.

How does the admissions process work?

Applications are submitted online through the CU Carinthia University of Applied Sciences application portal. Once you have submitted your documents, your eligibility will be reviewed. You will then be invited to a personal admissions interview.

When and how does the internship take place?

The professional internship is scheduled for the 6th semester as a standalone block without concurrent coursework. Any practical experience completed prior to this may be credited toward the 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 positions 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 field of study, 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.

Can I go on to pursue a master's degree after completing my bachelor's degree?

Yes, once you’ve successfully completed your bachelor’s degree, you can go on to pursue a master’s degree at a university of applied sciences or a university. At CU Carinthia University of Applied Sciences, you can enroll in any master’s program in the field of Business & Management.

Can I go to university even without a Matura?

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 time classes begin.

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 have your credits recognized, contact the Academic Administration at CU Carinthia University directly; they will review your case individually.

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.

What career opportunities does this degree program offer?

After completing your degree, you can work in tax consulting and auditing firms or in the accounting departments of companies, among other places. Possible areas of responsibility include financial and payroll accounting, tax returns, annual financial statements, balance sheet analysis, payroll processing, client support, and the digitization of accounting processes.

Are there any scholarships or grants available?

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

How much does it cost to attend college?

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