FAQs: Disability & Diversity Studies Bachelor's Degree Program

Who is this program suitable for?

The Disability & Diversity Studies Program is designed for individuals who view social diversity as an opportunity and wish to play an active role in shaping inclusion. It is suitable for anyone who wants to break down barriers, incorporate different perspectives, and engage with current societal developments such as migration, demographic change, digitalization, and social inequality.

How does the admission process work?

After you submit your online application and your documents have been reviewed, you will have a personal admissions interview. During this interview, we will discuss, among other things, your motivation, your interest in the Bachelor’s Program in Disability & Diversity Studies, as well as your expectations and career goals. The interview will be taken into account when allocating available spots in the Program.

What will I learn in the Disability & Diversity Studies Program?

You will explore social diversity, disability, inclusion, and equal participation. The Disability & Diversity Studies Program combines foundational knowledge from education, sociology, psychology, philosophy, and law with disability and diversity studies, gender and queer studies, cultural competence, organizational development, and academic research. Accessibility, communication, self-advocacy, and diversity management are also central components of the Program.

What is the difference between Disability Studies and Diversity Studies?

Disability Studies examine disability not solely as an individual characteristic, but also address the societal barriers and conditions that hinder participation. Diversity Studies focus on various dimensions of social diversity, such as age, gender, background, social status, or disability. The Program integrates both perspectives.

Is it possible to pursue this Degree while working?

Yes, the Bachelor’s Program in Disability & Diversity Studies at CU Carinthia University of Applied Sciences is designed to be pursued while working. Online instruction, intensive on-campus sessions, and course schedules that allow for long-term planning make it easier to balance your studies with your career. However, in addition to the courses, you should set aside sufficient time for self-study, group work, projects, exams, and internships.

When do the classes take place?

Classes for the Disability & Diversity Studies Bachelor's Program are held about twice a month from Thursday through Saturday. On Thursdays, classes are held online from 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Classes on Fridays from 12:45 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. and on Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. are held online once a month and in person once a month. In addition, there is one in-person intensive week per semester at the campus Klagenfurt Primoschgasse.

Can I study Disability & Diversity Studies without a high school diploma?

With a diploma from a school for social care professions (SOB), it is possible to enroll in the Disability & Diversity Studies program even without a Matura. In addition, admission may be granted based on a relevant professional qualification and the required supplementary exam in German. Individual eligibility requirements are reviewed as part of the application process.

Are relevant courses from the Bachelor's Program in Disability & Diversity Studies credited toward the Degree?

Yes, up to 30 ECTS credits may be transferred toward an SOB diploma or a corresponding program at an institution of early childhood education. Additional prior learning and successfully completed exams may also be recognized if they are equivalent in content and scope. The decision is made on a case-by-case basis by the Program Director.

What options does the Program offer?

In the later semesters of the Bachelor’s Program in Disability & Diversity Studies, you can choose your own areas of focus. You can choose from required elective modules in the areas of Disability, Diversity & Technology; Disability, Diversity & Care; Disability, Diversity & Accessibility; and Foundations of Social Work. This allows you to delve deeper into topics such as social and technical solutions, support services, care models, or accessibility, depending on your interests.

What does "Design for All" mean in the Disability & Diversity Studies Program?

“Design for All” in the Bachelor’s Program in Disability & Diversity Studies at CU Carinthia University of Applied Sciences refers to the development of services, products, and solutions that are accessible to as many people as possible. As part of the Program, you’ll also collaborate across disciplines with students in technical Degree Programs. In doing so, you’ll explore accessible digital offerings, augmentative and alternative communication, and the integration of diverse user perspectives.

Is the Disability & Diversity Studies Program practical?

Yes, practical projects, professional and research internships, and application-oriented courses are firmly integrated into the curriculum. You’ll learn to apply scientific findings to specific social and organizational issues. Among other things, you’ll explore accessibility, inclusion, organizational development, self-advocacy, and the design of inclusive living environments.

What languages can I learn during my studies?

In addition to English as a academic language (required), you can also choose Italian, Slovenian, or Austrian Sign Language as part of the Disability & Diversity Studies Program. The language modules span several semesters. 

What career opportunities does a Degree in Disability & Diversity Studies open up?

After completing your studies, you can apply your expertise in Disability & Diversity in businesses, social and healthcare institutions, academia, government, and other organizations. Possible fields of work:

• Social services, education, media, and cultural institutions
• Inclusion in the workplace (people with disabilities, chronic or mental health conditions, migration backgrounds, etc.)
• Diversity & Disability management in for-profit and nonprofit organizations (in relevant departments)
• Counseling and assistance for people with disabilities and marginalized groups
• Associations and advocacy groups for people with lived experience
• Social space development (e.g., community care, implementation of accessibility, inclusive communities)

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

The Bachelor’s Program in Disability & Diversity Studies lasts six semesters and comprises 180 ECTS credits. Upon successful completion, you will be awarded the academic degree of Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences (BA). The program is held on the Klagenfurt/Primoschgasse campus and is taught in German.

Can I go on to pursue a Master's Degree?

Yes, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Disability & Diversity Studies, you can apply for related Master’s Programs. At CU Carinthia University of Applied Sciences, for example, there is a Master’s Program in Disability, Diversity & Digitalization. Admission is subject to the specific requirements of the chosen Master’s Program.

What makes studying at CU Carinthia University of Applied Sciences unique?

This Degree Program – the only one of its kind in Austria – combines Disability & Diversity Studies with an interdisciplinary and practice-oriented education. The perspectives of self-advocates, as well as those of people with disabilities and others who have experienced discrimination, are consistently incorporated and recognized as valuable knowledge.
The goal of the Program is to contribute to an inclusive, accessible, and discrimination-sensitive society. Graduates develop the skills to critically reflect on societal attitudes, expose ableist and other discriminatory structures, and initiate processes of change. They learn to develop concepts for diversity, inclusion, and accessibility; to support organizations in implementing these concepts; and to create framework conditions that promote equal opportunity, self-determination, and social participation for all people.

How much does the Program cost, and how can I apply?

Tuition is €363.36 per semester, plus the applicable ÖH fee. For students from non-EU countries, tuition will be €500 per semester starting in the winter semester of 2026. Applications are submitted online via the CU Carinthia University of Applied Sciences application portal. A valid high school diploma or equivalent is required.