Graz University of Technology
- Study Engineering, Science, and Math at one of Europe’s leading research institutions.
- Experience the student-friendly city of Graz, Austria, a UNESCO cultural heritage site and once named the “European Cultural Capital”.
- Courses available in English and German.
Spend a semester or year at the Technische Universität Graz (TU Graz), one of Europe’s leaders in cutting-edge scientific research. This program is an ideal location for Engineering and Math students interested in studying among innovative researchers with a passion for high-quality academic instruction. The research-focused climate of TU Graz lends itself to unique opportunities for students to experience academic life at an institution known for its basic and applied research, international collaboration, and innovative use of technology.
Located in the student-friendly city of Graz, Austria, students will enjoy the youthful and vibrant energy of this once-named European Cultural Capital city. With architecture dating back to the Middle Ages alongside contemporary buildings and sculptures, Graz is a fascinating mix of old and new. Graz offers ample green space, a lively cultural scene to explore, and its location in Europe is well situated for travel.
Students can take courses in German or English and also have the option to take courses at three other universities including the University of Graz, the Medical University, and the Music University.
Technische Universität Graz
Technische Universität Graz (TU Graz) has a 200+ year history of providing high quality, innovation-oriented education in the fields of science and technology. Founded by Archduke Johann in 1811, today the university is an international leader in scientific research and collaboration. The university enrolls more than 12,000 students with an international student population of approximately 15 percent. TU Graz offers bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs in more than 30 disciplines. Its degree programs are spread across seven Faculties (Schools).
Graz, Austria
Graz is a student-friendly city of approximately 300,000 in the southeast corner of Austria. Located near the borders with Slovenia and Hungary and two hours south of Vienna, Graz is Austria’s second largest city and the capital of the province of Styria. Graz was previously named the European Cultural Capital and its well-preserved Old Town is on UNESCO’s list of World Cultural Heritage sites.
Graz is home to six different universities and a large student population, lending the city a vibrant and youthful atmosphere and many student-friendly amenities. The beautiful Mur River runs through the city center and there are numerous architectural, historic, cultural, and outdoors features to explore. Each year the city hosts numerous festivals. Students will enjoy the many green spaces, its well-preserved medieval city center, the lively arts scene, and the relaxed feel of this hidden gem in Austria.
Visiting exchange students may take courses in any of the following 7 Faculties (Schools) at TU Graz:
- Architecture (ARCH students only)
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering and Economic Sciences
- Electric and Information Engineering
- Mathematics, Physics and Geodesy
- Technical Chemistry, Chemical and Process Engineering, Biotechnology
- Computer Science and Biomedical Engineering
Explore the 30+ academic departments at TU Graz: Bachelor's Degree Programmes.
Courses at the bachelor’s level are taught in German, however, many courses in English are also available each semester, especially in the following departments: Chemical and Process Engineering, Chemistry, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Information and Computer Engineering, Software Development and Business Management. Most courses at the graduate level are offered in English. Students with at least 2 semesters of German language may take any course at the university.
Course Information
Students typically earn 12 to 18 KU credit hours during one semester abroad. You are encouraged to use the following resources to research available courses and to determine if these courses will meet your academic requirements at KU:
TU Graz Course Catalog:
Search among all course options available in all departments at TU Graz. Catalog can be used in German or English.
TU Graz Courses in English:
Search for courses taught exclusively in English.
KU Course Equivalency Database:
This is a list of courses currently pre-approved for KU credit (approved equivalency) and courses that students have had approved for KU credit in the past (possible equivalencies). Use 'Graz' in the search field.
German Language Courses:
Students have the option to take German language courses prior to the semester or concurrently with other courses during the semester. Courses are offered at all levels, from beginning to advanced, and credit is awarded for German language study. Language courses are offered in partnership with the University of Graz.
Other Course Options:
Through a unique enrollment agreement, students studying at TU Graz may also take courses at the University of Graz, the Medical University, and the Music University. Similarly, TU Graz students can take a variety sports courses through the Sports Institute of Graz (a small additional fee may apply). Sports course offerings range from paragliding, windsurfing, and snowboarding, to flamenco, weightlifting, fencing, and more.
Credit Approval Process
Visit the Credit Approval Process page for detailed information on the procedure for obtaining KU course equivalency approval for courses you plan to take abroad. All courses taken and grades earned while abroad must be posted as KU equivalents on a student’s KU transcript and grades will figure into a student’s KU GPA. The relevant KU academic department will make the final decision regarding posting of credit, and their application toward graduation.
Students are housed in student residence halls within walking distance or a short bus or tram ride of the TU Graz campus. Several rooming options are available ranging from private apartments to shared double or triple rooms. Cost varies based on option selected. The most common arrangement is a private room with a shared bathroom and kitchen. All facilities offer basic amenities such as internet and laundry.
All students will have access to kitchen facilities in their apartment or suite. Students can also purchase inexpensive meals at the TU Graz cafeteria (“mensa”), with many options including vegetarian and vegan selections. Restaurants near the university also offer student specials with inexpensive meal options.
SAGE is dedicated to creating international engagement opportunities that meet the needs of all our students and providing resources to support you through the process of studying abroad. Study abroad is achievable for students of all identities including our BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ students, students with disabilities, and students with religious/non-religious viewpoints. Before selecting a program, consider how your identities may impact your experience abroad in unique ways and talk with your Program Coordinator about any program-specific concerns. Students with documented disabilities should discuss any accommodation needs with their Program Coordinator early in the planning process.
Considerations for Austria
Austria has laws in place to protect ethnic and religious minorities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, the differently abled, and other groups. Same-sex marriage is available in Austria and most large cities have well-developed LGBTQIA+ organizations. Many Austrian universities have student groups and community organizations to support LGBTQIA+ students. Racism and bigotry are not socially accepted although some extremist political parties have been accused of racist sentiments.
Austria’s cities and public transportation are generally accessible to individuals with disabilities. Older sections of the cities and smaller towns may be less accessible due to centuries-old architecture, cobblestone streets, and small indoor spaces but Austria has federally mandated laws requiring access to public buildings for people with physical disabilities. Austria offers services for people who are mobility, sight, or hearing impaired.
Source: U.S. Department of State country information pages and Diversity Abroad.
Additional Resources
Check our Identity Abroad page and resources listed below for information specific to you and other students who may be on your program.
Open to students with sophomore status by the beginning of the program. Cumulative GPA of 3.0 required (exceptions considered). Two semesters of college-level German are required for German language courses, but there is no language requirement for students wishing to take courses in English.