The Austrian University of Applied Sciences Conference (FHK) takes note of the universities' current statement on the new federal government's higher education policy and welcomes the ongoing discussion on the further development of the Austrian higher education system. At the same time, we would like to emphasise that the possibility of awarding a doctorate at universities of applied sciences in no way represents a duplication of effort, but is a sensible and necessary addition to the existing higher education system.

The right to award doctorates to universities of applied sciences takes nothing away from anyone
In recent decades, universities of applied sciences in Austria have established themselves as a strong and innovation-driven part of the higher education system. Strengthening applied research through doctoral programmes is a logical further development that does not call existing structures into question, but complements them. It is not about copying university structures, but rather about the targeted further development of universities of applied sciences in those areas in which they are already doing excellent work today: practical research and close cooperation with industry and business.

A boost for applied research and Austria as a business location
The introduction of doctoral programmes at universities of applied sciences would bring considerable benefits to Austria as a science location. It is undisputed that universities of applied sciences make an important contribution to the country's innovative strength with their industry-orientated research. Especially in technology-driven industries, strengthening research-based education is essential in order not to lose touch with international developments. Close cooperation with companies and institutions ensures that research results can be quickly transferred into practice - an aspect that is of central importance for a dynamic, knowledge-based economy. Germany has already recognised the necessity of this development and is consistently implementing this step.

Sharpening the profile instead of diluting it
The universities of applied sciences have pursued a clear profile from the outset: Application-oriented education and research with direct practical relevance. This profile will not be diluted by doctoral programmes, but rather sharpened. The planned doctoral programmes at universities of applied sciences will differ from those at universities in terms of content by focusing specifically on industry-related research projects. This will create additional opportunities for qualified researchers who want to develop their skills in an application-oriented environment.

Cooperation instead of compartmentalisation
The further development of the higher education system should be characterised by cooperation and mutual support, not by demarcation. The universities and universities of applied sciences each have their own strengths and specialisations, which should be used together to make Austria even more competitive internationally as a science location. A constructive dialogue on the best ways to strengthen the research and education landscape is therefore essential.
"The Austrian University of Applied Sciences Conference appeals to all those involved to approach this further development in an open and objective manner. The introduction of doctoral programmes at universities of applied sciences is not in competition with university research, but a smart and necessary addition that strengthens Austria's higher education landscape and the business location as a whole," says Kurt Koleznik, Secretary General of the Austrian University of Applied Sciences Conference