Danube University Krems
Danube University Krems stands as Austria's leading public university for continuing education, serving over 8,000 students seeking to advance their careers through specialized graduate study. Founded in 1994, the university occupies a unique position in the Austrian higher education landscape, focusing exclusively on postgraduate programs designed for working professionals. Located in the historic Wachau Valley along the Danube River, the campus combines medieval architectural heritage with modern academic facilities. The university's mission centers on lifelong learning, recognizing that contemporary careers require continuous skill development and knowledge acquisition. Programs are designed specifically for professionals seeking to enhance expertise, transition careers, or pursue advanced credentials while maintaining employment. Course structures accommodate working adults through block seminars, weekend sessions, and blended learning formats combining online and in-person instruction. Danube University Krems has developed particular strengths in health sciences, business management, media studies, and cultural heritage management. International accreditations and partnerships extend the university's reach globally, with students from over 90 countries enriching the learning environment. The institution's practical orientation ensures graduates possess immediately applicable skills alongside theoretical foundations.
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.25
- Size
- N/A
- Type
- N/A
- Student:Faculty
- N/A
- Setting
- N/A
- Graduation Rate
- N/A
- Retention Rate
- N/A
- Tuition (In-State)
- N/A
- Tuition (Int'l)
- N/A
Student Life & Environment
Student life at Danube University Krems differs significantly from traditional universities because most students are working professionals who attend intensive sessions rather than living on campus full-time. The typical student is in their 30s or 40s, bringing professional experience and clear career goals to their studies. This creates a mature, focused learning environment where students learn from each other as much as from faculty. During intensive study blocks, students often stay in Krems, taking advantage of the town charming restaurants, wine taverns, and cultural offerings. The university provides support for finding accommodation during these periods. Student networks form within program cohorts, and many of these professional connections prove valuable long after graduation. The university hosts events, conferences, and guest lectures that bring together students across different programs. Recreational opportunities in the surrounding region include cycling along the Danube, hiking in the Wachau Valley, and exploring the cultural attractions of nearby Vienna. For students seeking traditional campus social life with dorms, parties, and daily classes, this is not the right fit. But for professionals who want serious education combined with networking opportunities and occasional escapes to a beautiful Austrian town, Danube University Krems delivers.
Location & Surroundings
Krems an der Donau is a small city of about 25,000 people that punches above its weight in charm and cultural significance. The historic center features medieval streets, baroque churches, and beautifully preserved architecture. The location in the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, means stunning landscapes of terraced vineyards climbing the slopes above the Danube. The region is famous for wine, particularly the white Gruner Veltliner and Riesling varieties that thrive in the local climate. Vienna is about an hour away by train or car, providing easy access to a world capital with all its cultural, entertainment, and professional opportunities. The climate features warm summers and cold winters, with the river valley sometimes experiencing fog in autumn and winter. Living costs are moderate by Austrian standards, lower than Vienna but not inexpensive by global measures. Most students do not live in Krems permanently but stay during their study blocks, finding hotels, guesthouses, or rental apartments. The town is walkable, with the campus, restaurants, and most amenities reachable on foot. For the periods between study blocks, students return to their normal lives and workplaces, often in Vienna or elsewhere in Austria and beyond.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Tuition at Danube University Krems varies significantly by program, with MBA and specialized professional programs commanding higher fees. As a public university, costs may be lower than comparable private institutions, but this is not the heavily subsidized undergraduate education that Austria offers at traditional universities. Many students receive support from their employers, who recognize the value of advanced education for organizational development. Others finance their studies personally or through loans. Living costs during study blocks add to the total investment, though staying in Krems is considerably cheaper than Vienna accommodation. The career value of Danube University programs is strong, with graduates advancing in their current organizations or moving to new opportunities. The focus on practical, applicable knowledge means graduates bring immediate value to their workplaces. Professional networks formed during study often prove valuable for career development long after graduation. The Austrian location and European connections facilitate careers across the EU. Alumni include professionals across business, healthcare, education, arts, and other sectors who have found that their Danube University credentials opened doors. For working professionals considering significant investment in their development, the return on investment through career advancement is the key consideration.
Campus Location
Explore More
See your match score for Danube University Krems
Find out how you compare to admitted students with a personalized admission assessment.
See your match score — Sign up free