Studying public health in Austria is possible at bachelor and master level. You can apply as an EU or non‑EU student. Below you will find the main steps, costs and where to start.
Bachelor and Master programmes
Austrian universities offer public health as a separate bachelor or as a specialization within a master. Most bachelor programmes last three years, while master programmes last two years.
- Bachelor of Science in Public Health (BSc)
- Master of Science in Public Health (MSc)
- Related degrees such as Health Management or Epidemiology
Entry requirements
Requirements differ for EU and non‑EU applicants. In all cases you need a recognised secondary school diploma for a bachelor, and a relevant bachelor degree for a master.
- Proof of secondary school completion (Matura or equivalent) for bachelor
- Relevant bachelor degree (e.g. biology, medicine, sociology) for master
- Minimum language score: German B2 or English C1 depending on language of instruction
- Valid passport and, if non‑EU, a residence permit
English‑taught options
Several Austrian universities provide public health courses in English. These are mainly master programmes, but some bachelor tracks also exist.
- University of Vienna - MSc Public Health (English)
- Medical University of Graz - MSc Health Policy (English)
- Johannes Kepler University Linz - MSc International Health (English)
Check the programme page of each university for the exact language of instruction and required English test.
Tuition fees
Public universities charge low fees for EU students and moderate fees for non‑EU students. Fees are set each year by the university.
- EU students: typically 0-400 EUR per semester
- Non‑EU students: typically 1,500-3,000 EUR per semester
Exact amounts are published on the university's admissions page. Some programmes offer scholarships; check the scholarship's own site for eligibility.
Living costs
Austria has a high quality of life and moderate living expenses. Costs depend on city, accommodation type and personal habits.
- Rent for a shared flat: 350-600 EUR per month
- Public transport monthly ticket: 45-55 EUR
- Food and groceries: 200-300 EUR per month
- Health insurance: 60-80 EUR per month for students
Overall you should budget around 800-1,200 EUR per month. Check the Austrian immigration authority (BFA) website for the minimum amount you must prove for a residence permit.
Application timeline
Most Austrian universities follow the winter (October) and summer (March) intake. Start early to avoid delays.
- 12‑14 months before start: research programmes and language requirements
- 10‑12 months before start: prepare documents (diplomas, transcripts, language certificates)
- 8‑10 months before start: submit online application via the university's admissions portal
- 6‑8 months before start: wait for admission decision and scholarship results
- 4‑6 months before start: apply for student visa or residence permit at the national immigration authority
- 2‑4 months before start: arrange accommodation and health insurance
Exact dates are posted on each university's admissions page. Always check there for the current deadline.
How universities find candidates
Universities mainly use their own online portals and national databases. They also partner with platforms that list student profiles.
- University admission portals (e.g. uni-assist, university's own system)
- National student exchange platforms (e.g. Erasmus+)
- Public registers such as Eduuro where students create free profiles
When you fill a profile with your field of study, education level, English level and documents, admissions offices can search for you and contact you first.
Common questions
Do I need to know German?
For English‑taught programmes you only need the required English score. If the programme is in German you need at least B2 level German.
Can I work while studying?
EU students can work without a special permit. Non‑EU students may work up to 20 hours per week with a valid residence permit. Check the Austrian immigration authority for the latest rules.
Are scholarships available?
Yes, many universities offer merit‑based scholarships for international students. Look at the scholarship's own site and the university's financial aid page for details.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education level, English level and documents. Admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.