Building Science and Technology

Building Science and Technology at Vienna University of Technology offers a comprehensive and innovative education program designed to prepare students for the dynamic challenges of the construction industry. The curriculum combines foundational knowledge in engineering, architecture, and materials science with advanced skills in sustainable building design, construction processes, and digital technologies. Students will engage in coursework that emphasizes sustainable development, energy efficiency, and environmental responsibility, aligning with modern demands for eco-friendly building practices. The program integrates practical training, laboratory work, and project-based learning to ensure graduates are well-equipped to address real-world problems in building construction and management. Throughout their studies, students will learn about modern building materials, structural systems, and building physics, fostering an understanding of how to optimize building performance while minimizing environmental impact. The program also emphasizes the importance of innovative digital tools such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and computer-aided design (CAD), which are essential in contemporary construction workflows. Interdisciplinary collaboration and research are core aspects of the education, encouraging students to develop creative solutions and to work effectively within diverse teams. Upon completion, graduates will be prepared for careers in architecture, engineering, construction management, and consultancy, contributing to the development of sustainable and resilient built environments. The MSc program is designed to foster scientific inquiry, practical skills, and professional ethics, enabling students to become leaders in the field of Building Science and Technology. The program is suitable for students interested in sustainable development, technical innovation, and advancing the future of construction methods and materials.

Core Courses

• Introduction to Scientific Research 
• Scientific Writing and Publication 
• Current Topics in Building Performance 
• Mathematics for Building Science
• Physics for Building Science 
• Thermal Aspects of Building Performance 
• Thermal Building Performance Simulation
• Tools and Media
• Visual Aspects of Building Performance 
• Acoustical Aspects of Building Performance
• Visual Building Performance Simulation
• Acoustical Building Performance Simulation 
• Building Monitoring and Diagnostics 
• Introduction to programming 
• Computation Design Support methods 
• Current issues in building informatics
• Building Systems and Controls
• Building Ecology 
• Human Ecology
• Project Course
• Master Project Seminar 
• Master Thesis

Electives

• Image Processing 
• Diagrammatic and Hybrid Methods in Spacial Planning
• Advanced Concepts in CAAD 
• Advanced Concepts in CAAD
• Essentials of real-environment visualisations 
• Sustainable planning and building with renewable ressources
• Theory of Film 
• Technical German 

Softskills

• Ecology and Sustainable Development
• Universal Design
• Barrier free Buildings 
• Creativity Engineering
• Presentations and Technical Writing - advanced 1 
• Presentations and Technical Writing - advanced 2 
• Technical English Presentation
• Technical English Communication

Requirements

• A degree from one of the following accredited national or international degree-granting programs (Bachelor, Master or Diploma): architecture, civil engineering, mechanical engineering, media computer science, software & information engineering, technical computer science or any other subject related field (if the field is subject related or not is decided by the dean of studies).
• Special entrance qualification for university (just if you are not a member of an EU/EWR country). 
• CV including relevant work experience (max. 3 A4 pages)
• Statement of intent (max. 2 A4 pages)
• Proficiency in English language. (CAE - minimum score 45, FCE – minimum grade C, IELTS Academic– minimum score 6.5, TOEFL iBT – minimum score 87)
• Proof of academic aptitude through recognized exams  (preferred GRE)

Funding options for the Bachelor's and Master's programs in Building Science and Technology at the Vienna University of Technology include a variety of national and international support schemes. Austrian students may benefit from the Austrian Student Grant Authority (StudienbeihilfAG), which offers need-based grants to full-time students meeting specific academic and financial criteria. These grants can partially cover living expenses and sometimes tuition fees, depending on the student's personal situation. Additionally, students can apply for university-specific scholarships and financial aid offered directly by Vienna University of Technology, which are awarded based on academic excellence, financial need, or specific project proposals. The university also encourages students to seek external funding sources such as Erasmus+ mobility grants, which support exchange students studying at partner institutions across Europe. For non-EU students, financial aid options may include private scholarships, sponsorships, or loan programs available through Austrian banks or international funding organizations. Part-time employment is also a common way for students to finance their studies, with Vienna offering numerous job opportunities in university-related activities, research projects, and local businesses, often with flexible hours suitable for students. The university provides comprehensive counseling to help students identify suitable funding programs and navigate application processes. International students are encouraged to explore scholarships offered by their home countries or through international organizations. Overall, the financing landscape for Building Science and Technology students at Vienna University of Technology is diverse, supporting students throughout their educational journey with financial assistance that can significantly ease the burden and enable focus on their academic and research activities.

Building Science and Technology at the Vienna University of Technology offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for the innovative and sustainable development of building environments. The program emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating principles from engineering, architecture, and technology to ensure that future professionals are equipped to address the evolving challenges of building design, construction, and operation. Students gain a solid foundation in core areas such as building physics, construction methods, materials science, and environmental systems. The program also places a strong focus on energy efficiency and sustainability, reflecting the global need for environmentally responsible building practices.

Throughout the course of study, students will engage with cutting-edge topics such as renewable energy integration, building automation and control systems, indoor environmental quality, and smart building technologies. Practical training is an integral component, with students participating in laboratory work, project-based coursework, and internships to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. The program collaborates closely with industry partners, offering students opportunities to work on innovative projects and gain valuable insights into current market trends.

Graduates of the Building Science and Technology program are prepared for careers in various sectors, including architectural firms, construction companies, consultancies, and government agencies. They are capable of designing energy-efficient, sustainable, and technologically advanced buildings, as well as overseeing construction processes and ensuring compliance with legal and safety standards. The program aims to foster problem-solving skills, technical expertise, and a commitment to sustainability, aligning with the Vienna University of Technology’s mission to contribute to technological progress and innovation.

The university provides state-of-the-art laboratories, workshops, and research facilities that support advanced learning and research activities. The curriculum is delivered by experienced faculty members who are active researchers and industry experts, ensuring that students receive up-to-date knowledge and skills that meet the demands of the modern building industry. Upon graduation, students are well-equipped to pursue further research or enter professional practice, making significant contributions toward creating smarter, more sustainable built environments worldwide.