Österreichische Fachhochschul-Konferenz FHK

Overview

The Österreichische Fachhochschul-Konferenz (FHK)or Austrian Conference of Universities of Applied Sciences, is a non-profit association established in 1996 to represent and advocate for the interests of universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen) in Austria. As of 2025, it comprises 21 member institutions, collectively offering over 500 accredited study programs across approximately 70 campuses nationwide. The FHK serves as a central platform for communication, policy advocacy and strategic development within the Austrian higher education sector.

History and Legal Framework

The legal foundation for Fachhochschulen in Austria was laid with the enactment of the Fachhochschul-Studiengesetz (FHStG) in 1993, which introduced a new model of higher education focusing on applied sciences and practical training. This legislation was later superseded by the Fachhochschulgesetz (FHG) in 2021, which further refined the regulatory framework for these institutions. The FHK was founded in the same year to unify and represent the diverse interests of these institutions.

Mission, Vision and Objectives

The FHK's mission is to serve as the collective voice of Austrian Fachhochschulen, promoting their interests and fostering communication among members. Its objectives include enhancing the visibility and recognition of universities of applied sciences, advocating for favorable policies and funding and supporting the development of high-quality, practice-oriented education and research.

Governance, Structure and Independence

The FHK operates as a member-based association governed by its statutes. Its leadership comprises a president, currently Raimund Ribitsch and a general secretary, Kurt Koleznik, who has held the position since 2006. The organization maintains independence from governmental bodies, allowing it to represent the interests of its members effectively. It is structured to facilitate active participation from various stakeholders, including program directors, rectors and managing directors of member institutions.

Accreditation and Quality Evaluation

Accreditation of Fachhochschulen in Austria is governed by the Act on Quality Assurance in Higher Education (HS-QSG), which distinguishes between accreditation and certification by audit. These procedures are essential for ensuring that institutions meet established standards of quality and are eligible for public funding. The FHK plays a role in supporting its members through the accreditation process and advocating for quality assurance measures that align with the needs of applied sciences education.

International Cooperation and Network Memberships

The FHK actively engages in international cooperation to enhance the global standing of Austrian Fachhochschulen. It participates in various European and international networks, facilitating exchange programs, joint research initiatives and collaborative projects. These partnerships contribute to the internationalization of Austrian higher education and provide students and faculty with opportunities for cross-border academic and professional development.

Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

Looking ahead, the FHK is poised to influence the evolution of higher education in Austria, particularly in the context of increasing demand for applied sciences graduates. It advocates for policy reforms that support the expansion and enhancement of Fachhochschulen, including the introduction of doctoral programs, which are currently under discussion. The FHK's efforts aim to strengthen the role of universities of applied sciences as key contributors to innovation, economic development and societal progress.

Summary

The Österreichische Fachhochschul-Konferenz is a pivotal organization in Austria's higher education landscape, representing the collective interests of universities of applied sciences. Through its advocacy, governance and international engagement, the FHK supports the development of high-quality, practice-oriented education and research. Its ongoing initiatives are shaping the future of higher education in Austria, ensuring that Fachhochschulen continue to meet the evolving needs of students, employers and society.

FAQs

• What is the Österreichische Fachhochschul-Konferenz?
  The Österreichische Fachhochschul-Konferenz (FHK) is an Austrian association representing the interests of universities of applied sciences in Austria, focusing on advocacy, policy development and fostering communication among member institutions.
• When was the FHK established?
  The FHK was founded in 1996 to unify and represent the diverse interests of Fachhochschulen in Austria.
• How many member institutions are part of the FHK?
  As of 2025, the FHK comprises 21 member institutions offering over 500 accredited study programs across approximately 70 campuses nationwide.
• What is the role of the FHK in accreditation?
  The FHK supports its members through the accreditation process and advocates for quality assurance measures that align with the needs of applied sciences education.
• Is the FHK involved in international cooperation?
  Yes, the FHK actively engages in international cooperation, participating in various European and international networks to enhance the global standing of Austrian Fachhochschulen.
• What future developments is the FHK advocating for?
  The FHK is advocating for policy reforms that support the expansion and enhancement of Fachhochschulen, including the introduction of doctoral programs, which are currently under discussion.

Organization Name

Österreichische Fachhochschul-Konferenz
Austrian Fachhochschule Conference

Acronym

FHK

Year of Establishment

1/01/1998

Control Type

Private

Entity Type

Non-Profit

Geo Focus and Coverage

National

Recognized by

n.a.

Affiliations or Memberships

n.a.

Number of Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

n.a.

Address

Bösendorferstraße 4/11
Vienna
1010 Wien Austria

Phone

+43 (1) 890 6345 10

Fax

+43 (1) 890 6345

List of member universities of the Austrian Conference of Universities of Applied Sciences (Österreichische Fachhochschul-Konferenz)

Burgenland

• University of Applied Sciences Burgenland GmbH

Carinthia

• Carinthia University of Applied Sciences - non-profit company

Lower Austria

• CAMPUS 02 University of Applied Sciences GmbH
• FH Joanneum GmbH
• IMC University of Applied Sciences Krems GmbH
• St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences GmbH
• University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt GmbH

Salzburg

• Salzburg University of Applied Sciences GmbH

Styria

• FH Joanneum GmbH

Tyrol

• fhg - Center for Health Professions Tyrol GmbH
• Kufstein University of Applied Sciences Tirol Bildungs GmbH

Upper Austria

• FH Health Professions Upper Austria GmbH
• Upper Austria University of Applied Sciences

Vienna

• Ferdinand Porsche Distance Learning University GmbH
• FHWien of the Vienna Chamber of Commerce
• Lauder Business School
• MCI International University GmbH
• University Campus Vienna Research and Development GmbH
• University of Applied Sciences BFI Vienna GmbH
• University of Applied Sciences Technikum Vienna

Vorarlberg

• Vorarlberg University of Applied Sciences GmbH

Federal Institutions

• University of Applied Military Sciences

Official Social Media Channels

Facebook

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X (Twitter)

Not available

LinkedIn

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YouTube

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Instagram

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Wikipedia Article

Österreichische Fachhochschul-Konferenz's Wikipedia article

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