FAQ 

Would you like to learn more about the Bachelor’s degree program in Sustainable Building & Property Management? Here you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about the curriculum, admission requirements, part-time study options, internships, and career opportunities. If your question isn’t listed here, our team will be happy to assist you personally.

What is Sustainable Building & Property Management?

Sustainable Building & Property Management combines real estate economics, sustainability, and technical principles into a holistic approach to the development, management, and enhancement of real estate. The focus is on how buildings can be designed to be economically successful, environmentally responsible, and socially beneficial throughout their entire life cycle.

What do you learn in the Sustainable Building & Property Management program?

During your studies, you’ll gain in-depth knowledge in the fields of real estate management, sustainability, law, engineering, architecture, and business administration. You will learn to analyze real estate projects holistically, develop sustainable strategies, and balance economic, environmental, and social requirements. Practical courses and close interaction with industry experts provide a direct connection to the realities of the professional world.

Is the program more focused on business, construction, or sustainability?

The program deliberately integrates all three areas. Sustainable Building & Property Management is an interdisciplinary field that combines business skills with technical knowledge and expertise in sustainability. This allows you to develop a comprehensive understanding of the entire real estate value chain and learn to evaluate complex decisions from different perspectives.

Do I need prior knowledge of real estate or construction?

No. No prior knowledge of real estate or construction is required for this program. All relevant fundamentals are systematically taught throughout the program. The program is suitable for high school graduates as well as working professionals and career changers who see their future in the real estate industry or who wish to gain specific additional qualifications.

Can I complete the degree program while working?

Yes. The program is designed to be pursued while working and is specifically tailored to help you balance your studies, career, and personal life. The combination of online instruction, in-person classes, and project-based work offers you maximum flexibility while ensuring a strong practical focus.

How does the hybrid program work?

During the semester, you can attend classes either in person on the Spittal campus or online. The hybrid study model allows you to study flexibly—regardless of whether you live in Carinthia or another federal state. At the same time, you’ll benefit from personal interaction and a strong student community.

What is a typical week of classes like?

Classes are held in a flexible, part-time format. On Thursdays, you study online; on Fridays and Saturdays, you can attend classes on the Spittal campus or online. In addition, you’ll work independently on projects and assignments, thereby deepening your understanding of the course material through real-world applications.

Why is there a block week at the beginning of every semester?

Each semester begins with a week-long intensive session on the Spittal campus. This session provides an opportunity for students to get to know one another, engage in academic discussion, and build a valuable network with fellow students and faculty. As a result, a strong academic community is fostered despite the hybrid study model.

What kinds of jobs can I get with this degree?

The program opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities—from sustainable real estate project development and asset and portfolio management to real estate valuation, project management, and ESG consulting. Other career opportunities exist with real estate developers, housing cooperatives, banks, insurance companies, and public institutions, as well as in the fields of facility management, urban and regional development, and renewable energy.

How does Sustainable Building & Property Management differ from real estate management or facility management?

Unlike traditional degree programs in real estate or facility management, this program focuses on a holistic approach to real estate. In addition to economic issues, you’ll delve deeply into sustainability, ESG criteria, energy efficiency, climate protection, technical fundamentals, and the legal framework. This will help you develop the skills needed to design real estate projects that are both economically successful and sustainable.

What does ESG stand for?

ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance and describes the three key aspects of sustainable practice: the environment, society, and responsible corporate governance. ESG is becoming increasingly important in the real estate industry in particular, as buildings have a significant impact on energy consumption, resource use, and quality of life. During your studies, you’ll learn how to integrate these requirements into sustainable real estate solutions.

What role do ESG, energy efficiency, and climate protection play in university?

ESG, energy efficiency, and climate protection are among the core topics of the program. You’ll learn to understand current developments such as the EU taxonomy, ESG guidelines, and new legal requirements, and to develop sustainable solutions for real estate projects. Sustainability is not viewed as a secondary topic, but rather as an essential component of the modern real estate industry.

Who teaches the courses in the program?

About 80% of the faculty members come directly from the real estate and construction industries or from related fields. They bring current projects and professional experience into the classroom and combine academic principles with the demands of the real estate industry.

Can I pursue a master´s degree after completing my bachelor´s degree?

Yes. Upon successful completion of your bachelor’s degree, you will meet the requirements for a related master’s program at a university of applied sciences or a university. At CU Carinthia University of Applied Sciences, for example, you can continue your studies with the part-time master’s program in Sustainable Real Estate Management and further develop your skills in a targeted manner.

Can I go to university even without a high school diploma?

Yes. Under certain conditions, it is possible to gain admission to a degree program even without a Matura—for example, by taking the vocational qualification exam or the university entrance exam. You can find information on admission requirements in the menu under “Services” at the Info Center.

How does the admission process work?

After you submit your online application, you will be invited to an in-person admissions interview with the program director. The interview will focus on your motivation, your interests, and your expectations for the program. You will also have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have. The admissions interview may also take place online.

Can I complete my degree program outside of Carinthia?

Yes. The hybrid study model allows you to pursue your studies from anywhere in Austria and the German-speaking world. During the semester, you can attend classes online. The joint block week on the Spittal campus also offers the opportunity to build personal connections and get to know university life.

Why Study at the Spittal Campus?

The Spittal campus offers a personalized learning environment with close interaction among students, faculty, and industry partners. Modern learning spaces, integration into the Civil Engineering & Architecture program, and the high quality of life surrounded by nature create ideal conditions for a successful academic experience.