Cooperation between the National Aerospace University "KhAI" and the St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences (FH St. Pölten) is one of the leading areas in the field of cybersecurity and digital technologies. This university is considered one of the best in Austria in terms of technical equipment and connections with the business sector.
St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences specializes in media technologies, digital economy, and information security. For KhAI students, this is a unique opportunity to enter the ecosystem of Austrian practical education.
Study Models:
Master's Degree ("1+1" scheme): The first year of study is at KhAI, and the second year is in St. Pölten. The program often includes a mandatory internship at Austrian IT companies.
Semester Mobility (Erasmus+): Study for one semester with a choice of courses from the "International Program" block (taught in English).
Joint Projects: Participation in annual "Intensive Programs" (IP), where students from different countries solve real cybersecurity cases over 1-2 weeks.
Priority Specializations:
Cyber Security: Vulnerability analysis, cryptography, and network security.
Information Technology and IT Administration: Systems engineering and cloud solutions.
Data Analysis and AI: Machine learning and data visualization.
Media Technologies: Development of interactive interfaces and VR/AR.
Educational Features:
Cyber Defense Center: The university has its own laboratory for simulating cyberattacks, where students practice defense skills in real-time.
Teaching Method: A primary focus on "Project-Based Learning" — instead of dry lectures, students work on projects commissioned by real companies.
Language: Most Master's mobility programs are available in English.
Financial Conditions:
Erasmus+ KA131: The main source of funding. The stipend is approximately 850 euros per month, which covers housing and meal expenses in Austria.
Ernst Mach Grant: Special Austrian scholarships for international students studying at universities of applied sciences.
Benefits: KhAI students are exempt from tuition fees in Austria (which can be quite high for non-EU citizens).
Advantages for Students:
Certification: Opportunity to obtain professional certificates in parallel with studies.
Career in Austria: The university hosts job fairs featuring giants such as Siemens, IBM, and Austrian government institutions.
Location: St. Pölten is only 25 minutes by train from Vienna, opening up extensive cultural and social opportunities.
Selection Criteria:
Successful completion of the first year of Master's studies (or the 3rd year of Bachelor's studies for semester mobility).
English Language: Level B2 (confirmed by a certificate or testing at KhAI).
Programming skills and knowledge of network technology basics (for IT specializations).
High Grade Point Average (GPA).