FAQ
Would you like to learn more about the dual Bachelor’s program in Hotel Management? Here you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about course content, admission requirements, part-time study, internships, and career opportunities. If you don’t see your question listed here, our team will be happy to assist you personally.
Procedure and Organization
What is a dual degree program in hotel management?
A dual degree program in Hotel Management combines a bachelor’s degree at a university with paid internships at a partner hotel. The university and the hotel are two equally important learning environments. You’ll gain academic knowledge while also gaining professional experience in the hotel industry.
How does the transition between academic study and practical experience work?
The program follows a 12-week cycle. You’ll spend about 12 weeks in the theoretical phase at CU Carinthia University of Applied Sciences in Villach and then move on to the practical phase at a partner hotel for about 12 weeks. This cycle repeats over six semesters.
How time-consuming is the dual degree program?
The dual study program takes about the same amount of time as a full-time program, but is structured differently: During the theoretical phases, you’ll study at CU Carinthia University of Applied Sciences; during the practical phases, you’ll work at the partner hotel. Theoretical and practical phases alternate in a clearly structured manner.
Is a dual degree program the right choice for me?
The dual study program is particularly well-suited for people who want to learn through hands-on experience, take on responsibility, and actively shape their careers in the hospitality industry. It is challenging, but it offers a particularly direct link between academic study, professional experience, and career development.
I have already completed an apprenticeship in the hospitality industry. Is the dual degree program a good fit for me?
Yes. If you already have experience in the hotel or restaurant industry and meet the requirements for college admission, the dual degree program may be a good next step for you. You’ll build on your practical experience and combine it with business knowledge, management skills, and a bachelor’s degree.
How does the dual study program help me get started in my career?
By the time you graduate, you will already have professional experience, industry contacts, and an understanding of business processes. This makes it easier to enter the hospitality industry right away and opens up opportunities for growth within the company or the industry.
Is a dual degree program very demanding?
A dual degree program is challenging and more time-consuming than a traditional degree program without regular practical training periods. It requires dedication, reliability, and good organizational skills.
Can I work while pursuing my dual degree program?
It is generally not realistic to hold down an additional regular job. During the theoretical phases, the focus is on classes, exams, and self-study; during the practical phases, you work full-time at the partner company.
Application and Practice Partners
How does the application process work?
First, you apply online to CU Carinthia University of Applied Sciences. After your application materials have been reviewed, you’ll have an admissions interview. You’ll then select your preferred internship partner companies. The university will forward your application materials and assist with the matching process. You will receive your final acceptance to the program once both CU Carinthia University of Applied Sciences and a participating partner company have approved your application.
Do I have to apply to the hotels myself?
No. You select your preferred partner practices from a list of participating practices. CU Carinthia University forwards your application materials and guides you through the entire matching process.
Can I choose my practice partner?
Yes. During the application process, you’ll use a priority list to indicate which partner practices you’re particularly interested in.
What happens if my first-choice company declines my application?
If your first-choice company declines or a partnership cannot be established, your application materials will be forwarded to the next company on your priority list. CU Carinthia University of Applied Sciences will continue to actively support this process.
Can I change the partner company while studying?
A change of practice partner is generally not permitted and is possible only in justified cases and after consultation with CU Carinthia University of Applied Sciences. Since the practice is a key learning environment, any change is carefully reviewed.
What happens if I lose my job at the partner company?
If your employment ends for reasons beyond your control, CU Carinthia University of Applied Sciences will assist you in finding a solution or another suitable partner company for the remaining practical training phases.
Which hotels are practice partners?
Our industry partners range from family-run hotels to leading regional establishments and national and international hotel chains. You can find a current overview on this website under “Industry Partners.”
Practical Training Phases and Day-to-Day Work
What tasks will I be responsible for during the practical training phases?
At the beginning, the focus is on operational areas such as the front desk, housekeeping, service, and the kitchen. Later on, you’ll take on tasks in reservations, marketing, sales, revenue management, human resources, quality management, and project work. Which areas you’ll be introduced to depends on the structure and size of the partner company as well as the course of your studies.
Will I be working full-time during the practice phases?
Yes. During the practical training phases, you will generally work full-time at the partner company and be actively involved in the day-to-day operations of the hotel. The specific terms of employment, compensation, and work schedule are outlined in the employment contract with the respective partner company.
Can I work in addition to my dual study program?
It’s generally not realistic to hold down an additional regular job. During the theoretical phases, the focus is on classes, exams, and self-study; during the practical phases, you’ll work full-time at the partner company.
Is a dual degree program very demanding?
A dual degree program is more demanding and time-consuming than a traditional degree program without regular practical training periods. It requires dedication, reliability, and good organizational skills.
Do I get vacation time as part of my dual degree program?
Yes. While working at the partner company, you are entitled to vacation time in accordance with applicable labor laws. Since the dual study program combines theoretical phases with full-time practical phases, there are fewer extended periods of time off than in a traditional degree program. In return, you gain valuable work experience right from the start and earn some extra money.
Finance, Insurance, and Housing
Will I earn money while in a dual degree program?
Yes. During the practical training phases, you will be employed by the partner company and will receive compensation. The specific amount and terms will be set forth in the employment contract with the respective partner company. In doing so, the applicable labor laws and collective bargaining agreements must be taken into account.
How much does it cost to attend university?
Tuition is currently €363.36 per semester for EU citizens and €500.00 per semester for non-EU citizens. In addition, the ÖH fee—currently €26.20 per semester—must be paid. You are responsible for paying these fees yourself.
What kind of health insurance coverage do I have while enrolled in a dual degree program?
During the practical phases, you are covered by insurance through your employment at the partner company. For the theoretical phases, your insurance coverage depends on your personal circumstances. As an Austrian student, you are often covered under your parents’ insurance policy. For students from EU countries, there are various options depending on your specific situation, such as co-insurance via an S1 form, a European Health Insurance Card, or self-insurance. The university will provide you with further information on this if needed.
Where will I live during the classroom sessions in Villach?
If your practice phase is located farther away from Villach, you’ll need housing in or near Villach for the theoretical phases. The university provides information on housing options, student dorms, temporary rentals, and online platforms. However, you’re responsible for arranging your own housing. We therefore recommend that you actively explore several options well in advance.
Where will I live during the practice phases?
During the practical training phases, you’ll live near your partner company. Many hotels provide employee housing or help you find suitable accommodations. However, this isn’t the case for all companies. You should therefore discuss your specific housing situation with your partner company well in advance.
Prerequisites and Language
What requirements do I need to meet?
You must have a general university entrance qualification, a vocational entrance qualification, or a subject-specific entrance qualification. In addition, you must have a confirmation of acceptance from a participating partner company.
What level of German do I need?
For applicants from non-German-speaking countries, a German language proficiency level of at least B2 is required. In addition, English skills at the Matura level are important for both academic studies and work in the company.
Is the program taught in German or English?
The program is taught primarily in German. In addition, Business English and English for Hotel Management are integrated into the program. Some course content may be taught in English.
Career and Future
What career opportunities will I have after graduation?
With your bachelor’s degree, you’ll have business knowledge and extensive practical experience. This opens up entry-level opportunities in areas such as front office management, food & beverage, sales & marketing, revenue management, human resources, event management, or quality management.
How does the dual study program help me get started in my career?
By the time you graduate, you will already have professional experience, industry contacts, and an understanding of business processes. This makes it easier to start working in the hospitality industry right away and opens up opportunities for growth within the company or the industry.
Can I continue my studies after earning my bachelor's degree?
Yes. A bachelor's degree generally qualifies students to pursue a master's degree in business, management, tourism, or related fields.
Is a dual study program the right choice for me?
The dual study program is particularly well-suited for people who want to learn through hands-on experience, take on responsibility, and actively shape their careers in the hospitality industry. It is challenging, but it offers a particularly direct link between academic study, professional experience, and career development.