University of Applied Sciences? Absolutely, yes!
Daria Lyubaeva, a third-year student of the Business Informatics program, shares who can benefit from spending a semester abroad at a University of Applied Sciences, why global rankings aren't always the best guide, and how Technikum Wien helps set you up for success in the job market.
Going on exchange to the capital of Austria — a country whose official language I didn’t even speak fluently — happened almost by chance. But as it turns out, it was one of the happiest accidents of my academic journey.
The Faculty of Business and Management at HSE University offers a truly valuable opportunity: a student exchange program with the University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien. At first glance, this institution might raise a few questions — especially from students who rely heavily on global university rankings. As of 2020, HSE ranks 322nd in the QS World University Rankings, while Technikum Wien doesn’t appear there at all. But there's a reason for that: it belongs to a unique category of Austrian higher education institutions called Fachhochschule — universities of applied sciences, which operate under a very different model compared to traditional universities.
The key difference? A strong focus on practical, hands-on learning. In fact, Fachhochschule graduates often have a serious advantage over graduates of traditional universities (including TU Wien) when entering the job market. Many employers don’t even require prior work experience from Fachhochschule alumni when offering highly desirable entry-level positions. In contrast, applicants from traditional universities may need up to two years of experience — even for junior roles.
Studying at Technikum Wien also feels very different. Every course, every seminar feels like a lab. Take, for example, the solar panel design course I enrolled in — a class that turned out to be one of the best experiences of the semester, even though my engineering background is limited. Technikum offers a completely different perspective: it’s hands-on learning, access to a 3D printer, full creative freedom, and a level of energy and openness that can feel surprising — especially if you come from a more traditional academic culture.
Social life kicks off as early as move-in day at the student residence — where most exchange students spend their semester abroad. Or it begins during your first week of classes, thanks to the incredibly active Erasmus Student Network (ESN). At Technikum, ESN includes around 20 local Austrian volunteers who organize events, trips, and unforgettable experiences that immerse exchange students in both international and local communities.
Technikum Wien is all about respect — for students, for ideas, for diversity. It’s also about living in one of the most livable cities in the world. It’s about making new friends, building new skills, and maybe even getting through a quarantine together.
If you're considering a University of Applied Sciences — go for it. It might just be the best decision you make.