FAQ 

What makes this master's program unique?

This master’s program combines clinical image analysis, extensive hands-on case experience, and advanced practice in an academic framework that is currently unique in the German-speaking world. This allows you to develop advanced skills for taking on responsibilities in diagnostic imaging. 

Who is this degree program suitable for?

This master’s program is designed for radiologic technologists with an interest in diagnostic imaging who wish to specifically expand their expertise in image quality, image analysis, and advanced practice. You will gain a thorough understanding of current developments in diagnostic radiology, ranging from artificial intelligence to quality management, radiation protection, and care processes. 

Can I complete the degree program while working?

The five-semester master’s program is designed to be taken while working and consists of 70% online instruction and 30% in-person instruction. Online instruction typically takes place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. via Microsoft Teams. In-person instruction is organized in multi-day blocks from Thursday through Saturday.

What exactly is “Advanced Practice in Diagnostic Imaging”?

"Advanced Practice in Diagnostic Imaging" refers to a specialized and advanced practice by radiologic technologists based on academic advancement at the master’s level. This is characterized by in-depth clinical expertise, increased professional autonomy, complex decision-making, and responsibility for quality, professional development, research, teaching, leadership, and innovation in diagnostic imaging. Internationally, this level of competence is usually described by the term “Advanced Radiography Practice” (ARP). ARP encompasses additional roles in both diagnostics and therapy. The master’s program in Advanced Practice in Diagnostic Imaging at Carinthia University of Applied Sciences focuses specifically on the diagnostic field of imaging. 

What kind of role can I take on after completing my master's degree in diagnostic radiology?

Through the Master’s program in Advanced Practice in Diagnostic Imaging, you will further develop your professional expertise in radiological technology. Depending on your professional and institutional context, you can take on greater responsibility in the analysis, quality assurance, and further development of diagnostic processes and apply your expertise in various areas of practice:

• Image analysis and interpretation of X-ray images, as well as structured documentation and communication of results
• Technical quality assurance and quality management 
• Optimization of radiation protection and dose management 
• Implementation and technical support for new technologies and AI-based applications
• Research and evidence-based advancement of radiological technology practice
• Active participation in development and change processes
• Professional collaboration in interprofessional teams

The specific tasks and responsibilities you can take on after graduation depend on the applicable legal requirements and the framework conditions of the respective healthcare facility.

Is a radiologic technologist's report the same as a physician's radiologic report? Or does the master's degree mean that I will be allowed to make medical diagnoses on my own after completing the program?

No. A radiologic technologist’s report is not the same as a physician’s radiologic report. The master’s program deepens radiologic technologists’ competencies in the structured assessment and description of imaging examinations, which can contribute to efficient and quality-assured processes in radiologic care and strengthen interprofessional collaboration. The radiologic technologist’s report can serve as an initial report—a first step in the diagnostic process—and forms the basis for the physician’s report and diagnostic conclusion. However, the master’s program does not qualify students to make medical diagnoses independently or to replace the physician’s findings. The physician’s area of expertise regarding findings and diagnoses relevant to therapy remains unaffected.  

Is it possible to balance a master's program with shift work and a full-time job?

Yes, the master’s program is generally structured in such a way that it is compatible with full-time employment and shift work. The high proportion of online coursework, classes scheduled between 5:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m., and concentrated in-person sessions make it easier to plan ahead.

How well you can balance your studies and full-time employment in your specific situation depends on your work schedule, coordination with your employer, your personal commitments, and your ability to manage your time effectively. 

The on-campus session dates are announced at least six months before the start of the semester. Online classes generally take place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays between 5:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. (excluding the Christmas and Easter breaks and at least eight weeks in the summer). This allows you to coordinate your work schedule with your employer well in advance. Especially with rotating shifts and weekend shifts, some flexibility in scheduling is helpful. 

Defined minimum attendance requirements apply to individual courses. These provide you with some organizational flexibility if specific shifts cannot be rescheduled. Within the respective attendance requirements, you are responsible for deciding when to use this flexibility. For in-person weekends, 100% attendance is required, particularly for practical exercises.

How often do I have to travel to Klagenfurt for the master's program?

Three times per semester during the first three semesters, and four times in the fourth semester. In the fifth semester, you’ll only have individual appointments related to your master’s thesis—which can take place online or in person—as well as the in-person master’s exam. Exams are generally integrated into the in-person weekends. In the case of retakes, it may be necessary to schedule an exam date outside the in-person weekend from Thursday through Saturday.

How much time does it actually take to do this alongside a full-time job?

The program is designed to be taken while working, and the total of 120 ECTS credits are completed in 5 semesters instead of 4. In addition to the high proportion of online instruction, this is intended to make the master’s program more manageable.

The high proportion of online learning and the concentrated in-person sessions reduce the need for frequent travel and make it easier to plan your schedule. However, especially if you have a full-time job, work shifts, or have family obligations, you should realistically factor in the time needed for individual study and work phases (e.g., preparing for and reviewing course content, completing assignments, and preparing for exams) into your personal weekly and semester schedules.  

The course load is measured in ECTS credits. These take into account the total workload for the program—that is, both participation in classes and the coursework you complete independently outside of scheduled class times.

How long does the program last, and what degree do you earn?

The program lasts 5 semesters, is worth 120 ECTS credits, and leads to a Master of Science in Health Studies (MSc.) degree. In accordance with Section 6(4) of the FHG, this degree qualifies you to pursue doctoral studies at a university.

How much does it cost to attend university?

Tuition is €363.36 per semester, plus a €26.20 ÖH fee. Starting in the winter semester of 2026, students from non-EU countries will be required to pay an additional fee of €500 per semester.

Do I need prior work experience in radiologic technology?

One year of relevant professional experience in conventional radiography is advantageous but not a general admission requirement. Practical experience will help you connect the in-depth content of the master’s program with real-world situations and procedures encountered in the day-to-day work of a radiologic technologist.  

What documents do I need to apply?

For your application, you will need the following documents to demonstrate your academic qualifications, professional eligibility, and motivation for the master’s program:

• Proof of completion of the Bachelor’s degree program relevant for admission or equivalent prior education (e.g., Bachelor’s degree certificate, diploma)
• Bachelor’s degree transcript or diploma, and, if applicable, additional proof of education
• Proof of professional licensure to practice the regulated profession of radiologic technologist in the respective country (e.g., entry in the Health Professions Register for Austrian citizens)
• Current resume
• A statement of purpose in which you describe your motivation for pursuing the master’s program and your professional development goals
• Proof of previous professional experience, if applicable
• Any required language proficiency or other qualification certificates

Depending on your prior education and the country where you completed your training, additional documents may be required. The specific documents needed for your individual application will be determined during the application and admission process. 

What language skills are required?

Most courses are taught in German—though some are also offered in English. Therefore, admission requires proficiency in German and English at a minimum of Level B2, as well as appropriate proof of language proficiency. 

How do I apply, and what is the admissions process like?

Applications are submitted online through the CU Carinthia University of Applied Sciences application portal. Once all required application materials have been submitted, you will be invited to an online interview via Microsoft Teams that lasts 30–45 minutes. After reviewing your application materials and assessing your motivation for the master’s program, the admissions committee will decide on your admission. You can find all information regarding application deadlines, required documents, and the application process under “What You Need to Know About the Application.”

How does this master's program differ from other master's programs for radiologic technologists in Austria?

The Master’s program in Advanced Practice in Diagnostic Imaging at CU Carinthia University of Applied Sciences focuses, among other things, on structured image analysis and interpretation, as well as the preparation of radiological reports for skeletal and lung/thoracic radiographs. This distinguishes the program in Austria from programs specifically focused on sonography, radiation therapy, and functional imaging, as well as from master’s programs in health and management.

How practical is the program?

The program specifically combines in-depth academic study with issues and applications from the field of diagnostic radiology. You will work with real clinical cases and apply the knowledge you have acquired in a variety of practical learning settings. These include, for example:

• Structured image analysis of X-rays of the skeletal system and the lungs/thorax
• Image analysis on diagnostic display monitors
• Clinical case discussions and structured documentation of analysis results
• Hands-on experience with AI-supported applications in diagnostic imaging
• Exercises on radiation protection, dose optimization, and technical quality assurance, as well as
• clinical rotations, during which you will deepen and reflect on your skills in a clinical setting. 

How does case work work during my studies, and where can I get the necessary patient cases?

Structured work with patient cases is a central component of the program and supports your development of skills in image analysis all the way through to the preparation of a radiologic technology report. By the end of the 4th semester, you must document and provide verified proof of at least 1,575 patient cases in accordance with the program’s requirements.
Case work is built up over several semesters and takes place in various academic and practical contexts throughout the program. The plan is to work on cases from various sources. These will be drawn from the academic context, from your own professional practice, and from the clinical observation phase scheduled for the fourth semester. The focus of the case work is not only on reaching the required number of cases, but also on the continuous application of the knowledge you have acquired, reflection and self-reflection, as well as the further development of your skills through various radiological case studies. 

Can I complete job shadowing at my current workplace?

Yes, you can also complete the observation period with your current employer. This makes it easier to balance with your job and, depending on your individual agreement with your employer, can help you avoid having to take additional vacation days. 

However, you can also choose to complete your observation placement at a different healthcare facility. This gives you the opportunity to learn about different work methods, structures, radiology processes, and clinical issues, as well as to gain new professional perspectives. Which observation placement is right for you depends on your individual professional development goals. 

What role does artificial intelligence play in university?

AI is the academic focus of the master’s program. You will explore the fundamentals and potential applications of AI in radiological image diagnostics, as well as AI-assisted applications. You will learn to critically evaluate the possibilities and limitations of such systems and will address issues such as traceability, explainability, and ethical and legal considerations.

In addition, the program addresses the critical and responsible use of AI in scientific work. 

Can I get credit for coursework or continuing education I've already completed?

Academic work already completed or relevant continuing education may be reviewed for possible recognition at the start of the program. The decisive factor is whether the competencies already acquired—in terms of content, scope, and level—meet the corresponding requirements of the master’s program.
Recognition is therefore not automatic but is based on an individual review of the submitted documentation. This may require, for example, transcripts, course descriptions and materials, curricula, or other evidence of the competencies acquired. 

Can I complete the master's program if I don't live and work in Austria?

Yes, you can complete the master’s program even if you live and work outside of Austria, provided you meet the admission requirements for the master’s program. Because a significant portion of the program is online, you can complete a large number of courses from anywhere. However, for the scheduled in-person sessions, you must be present at the program location in Klagenfurt. 

The scheduled on-campus sessions make it easier to plan your travel well in advance. The Klagenfurt Mitte campus is accessible by public transportation, by car, and via Klagenfurt Airport. With Lake Wörthersee and the Carinthian mountains in the immediate vicinity, Klagenfurt also offers an attractive setting for your study stays. This allows you to combine intensive on-campus days with time spent with your classmates and, if your schedule permits, with exploring the region.

How important is a master's degree for my career in Germany or Switzerland?

With this master’s program, you will deepen and expand your expertise in radiological technology at the academic master’s level (NQR and EQR Level 7)—regardless of whether you work in Austria, Germany, or Switzerland. The skills you acquire during the program—such as image analysis of X-rays, quality assurance and process development, AI, research, and technology implementation—can therefore also be relevant to your professional development outside of Austria.

This is distinct from the professional authorization required for specific job duties. The healthcare profession is regulated in both Germany and Switzerland. The specific expanded duties and responsibilities you can actually assume after completing your master’s degree therefore depend on the respective national professional regulations and your employer’s policies. A master’s degree alone does not automatically mean that you can take on the same tasks and responsibilities in every country. 

What options do I have for further education after completing my master’s degree?

Upon successful completion of the Master’s program in Advanced Practice in Diagnostic Imaging, you will have a wide range of opportunities for professional and academic advancement. In addition to expanded career opportunities in diagnostic radiology, the program also qualifies you for roles in research, development, management, and teaching.

Furthermore, in accordance with legal requirements, the Master of Science in Health Studies (MSc.) degree qualifies you for admission to a doctoral program at a university. This allows you to further expand your academic skills and delve deeper into research questions in healthcare, diagnostic imaging, or related fields.

The specific career or academic opportunities that result from this depend on your individual interests, the respective admission requirements, and the conditions of your professional environment.