Master's Degree Program

Social Economy

part-time

 
 

Social Economy

The social economy provides around 300,000 jobs in Austria and is a dynamic and rapidly changing sector. New social needs, demographic change, the climate crisis, the digitalization of all areas of life and various crises are leading to a change in demand. Social managers have to develop complex strategies and effective approaches with limited resources. This requires a specific professional profile.

The master's degree program Social Economy enables you to deal with leadership and management in the form of agile social management. You will build up business know-how for various activities and management tasks in the social economy. You will also strengthen your skills in developing and implementing innovative concepts, evaluating social services and carrying out research projects. You will also benefit from an internationally oriented, practice-oriented study program in cooperation with several European universities and a joint degree.

Department
Social Sciences
Topic
Networking
Quality of life

Highlights

  • Connection of current professional developments, social discourses and scientific findings

  • Annual Spring School on current topics in the social economy, social management and social work

  • International orientation and international mobility

  • Joint degree from several European universities

     

    Facts

    Final degree

    Master of Arts in Social Sciences (MA)

    Duration of course
    4 semesters
    Organisational form
    part-time

    Tuition fee pro semester

    € 363,361

    + ÖH contribution + costs for optional additional services, if applicable2

    ECTS
    120 ECTS
    Language of instruction
    German

    Application Winter semester 2027/28

    01. January 2027 - 15. May 2027

    Study places

    49

    1 Tuition fees for students from third countries € 727 per semester. Details on tuition fees can be found in the general fee regulations.
    2 The costs depend on the additional services selected from the University of Applied Sciences Campus Vienna, such as work clothing, licenses, tutorials, or excursions.

    Before the studies

    Ideally, you come from a practical background in the social sector and are interested in the management of social economy organizations and the associated, diverse topics and fields of activity. You consider research-based knowledge and international networking to be important for developing innovative solutions to social problems. You would like to exchange ideas with experts from other European countries about current developments and learn from each other.

    Why you should study with us

    Unique in Europe

    Comprehensive and unique curriculum.

    Spot-on studying

    Continue your generalized basic education with very specific continuing education offers.

    Great network

    Our national and international network opens up perspectives and job opportunities after graduation.

    Relevant admission requirement

    The relevant admission requirement is 

    • a completed bachelor's degree in a relevant subject or
    • the completion of an equivalent degree at a recognized domestic or foreign post-secondary educational institution.

    A total of 180 ECTS credits, exemplary list:

    • Bachelor's dregree/diploma in Social Work
    • Bachelor's degree in Social Pedagogy
    • Bachelor's degree in Social Management in Early Education and Care
    • Bachelor's dregree/diploma in social sciences (e.g. political science, sociology, cultural and social anthropology, international development, nursing sciences, journalism and communication studies)
    • Bachelor's dregree/diploma in socioeconomics, economics, business administration
    • Bachelor's dregree/diploma in health management
    • Bachelor's dregree/diploma in Public Management
    • Bachelor's dregree/diploma in educational sciences
    • Bachelor's dregree/Diploma at the University College of Teacher Education/Academy

    The diploma from a three-year academy for social work is considered equivalent. 

    The head of degree program decides in individual cases.

    Language requirements for admission

    The required language level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is at least

    • German - level C1 and
    • English - level B2.

    If no such certificate is sumitted, we reserve the right to test your language skills during the admission interview.

    Legalization of foreign documents

    Applicants may require legalization of documents from countries other than Austria in order for them to have the evidential value of domestic public documents. Information on the required legalizations can be found here in PDF format.

    Translation of your documents

    For documents that are neither in German nor English, a translation by a sworn and court-certified interpreter is required. Your original documents should have all the necessary legalization stamps before translation so that the stamps are also translated. The translation must be firmly attached to the original document or a legalized copy.

    Online application - uploading documents

    As part of your online application, upload scans of your original documents including all required legalization stamps. For documents not issued in German or English, scans of the corresponding translations must also be uploaded. The head of the study program decides on the equivalence of international (higher) education qualifications. Therefore, your documents can only be checked as part of the ongoing application process.

    Your path to studying at Hochschule Campus Wien (HCW) begins with your registration on our application platform. In your online account, you can start your application directly or activate a reminder if the application phase has not yet started.

    Documents for your online application

    1. Proof of identity
      • passport or
      • identity card or
      • Austrian driving license (proof of citizenship required) or
      • residence permit (proof of citizenship required)
    2. Proof of change of name, if applicable (e.g. marriage certificate)
    3. Proof of fulfillment of the relevant admission requirement
      • degree certificate and
      • Transcript of Records or Diploma Supplement
      • If you have not yet completed your studies, please upload proof of all courses completed to date as part of the relevant degree program, including ECTS credits.
    4. Proof of German1 level C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The following apply as proof:
      • secondary school leaving certificate from a German-speaking school
      • completion of at least three years of studies in German
      • supplementary examination pre-study course - German C1
      • German certificate (not older than 3 years), for example:
        • Austrian German Language Diploma: ÖSD Certificate C1
        • Goethe Institute: Goethe Certificate C1
        • telc: German C1 University
        • German language test for university admission for foreign applicants: DSH-2
        • German Language Diploma of the Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs of the Länder in the Federal Republic of Germany: DSD II - C1
        • Test of German as a foreign language (Test DaF): Level TDN 4 in all parts
        • Language Center of the University of Vienna: Course and successfully passed exam at level C1/2
        • Proof of a higher language level is also valid.
    5. Proof of English1 level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The following apply as proof:
      • secondary school leaving certificate with successfully passed secondary school leaving examination in English (level B2 must be evident)
      • secondary school leaving certificate from an English-speaking school
      • university entrance qualification certificate from an Austrian university with a successfully passed examination in the subject English
      • Transcript of Records/Diploma Supplement from a recognized post-secondary educational institution with proof of successfully completed English-language courses amounting to at least 6 ECTS credits or 150 hours
      • IB Diploma according to the regulations of the International Baccalaureate Organization with
        English as a school subject
      • supplementary examination pre-study course - English B2
      • English certificate (not older than 3 years), for example:
        • Hochschule Campus Wien: Oxford Test of English Level B2 (score range = 111-140)
        • TOEFL: 72-94 points
        • IELTS Academic: Overall Band Score = 5.5-6.5
        • Cambridge: Overall score level B2 (minimum scale score = 160 in B2 First (FCE) or C1 Advanced (Certificate in Advanced English CAE))
        • proof of language competence from a university language center at level B2
      • Proof of a higher language level is also valid.
    6. Curriculum vitae in tabular form in German
    7. Letter of motivation in German (following the guiding questions)
    8. Proof of other academic degrees, if available
    9. Legalizations and translations, if applicable (see tab “Foreign documents and degrees”)

    1 Language requirements: If no such certificate is sumitted, we reserve the right to test your language skills during the admission interview.

    Your application is valid once you have completely uploaded the required documents. If you do not have all the documents at the time of your online application, please submit them to the secretary's office by email as soon as you receive them.

    After completing your online application, you will receive an email confirmation with information on the next steps.

    The admission procedure is based on

    • the online application 
    • the submission of the complete application documents
    • the answers to the guiding questions in your letter of motivation
    • a structured one-on-one interview

    The places are allocated on the basis of the ranking of the results in the admission procedure. Professional practice in the social sector will be taken into account.

    Do you still have questions about the study?

    Make an appointment with FH-Prof. Mag. Peter Stepanek (Head of Degree Program) sozialwirtschaft@hcw.ac.at for a a personal consultation via Zoom.

    During the studies

    The program combines business know-how with the demands of a social economy organization. You benefit from research-based, practice-oriented expertise of the lecturers. The annual Spring School gives you insights into current topics and developments in the international environment.

    This master's program is the first European program for social economy that concludes with a joint degree from several European universities. Courses in cooperation with the international joint degree partners increase the quality of the education. A two-week, mandatory study visit to a partner university from the joint degree network will expand your professional, linguistic and intercultural competencies. We live an intensive exchange with these partner universities:

    University Trnava (Slovak Republic)

    University Ostrava (Czech Republic)

    University Debrecen (Hungary)

    Mobility partner:

    University of Silesia in Katowice (Poland)

    Babeș-Bolyai University of Cluj-Napoca (Romania)

     

    In addition to intensive international cooperation, we are networked throughout Austria with social sector organizations and research institutions. At the interface of research, practice and teaching, the Department Social Sciences has its own Research Center for Social Work. You will also benefit from our cooperations with your master's theses.

    Graduates of the master's degree program

    • understand the social economy as a practical field with diverse conflicting areas,
    • manage social economy organizations and areas of responsibility in an operative manner,
    • manage social organizations strategically,
    • launch innovations in a sustainable manner,
    • conduct practice-oriented research to develop new solutions and concepts for the social economy and social work, and
    • learn self-management skills.

    To this end, you will acquire relevant specialist knowledge from a wide range of disciplines, adapted to the current needs of organizations in the social economy.

    Curriculum

    Module Organization and Society
    4.5 SWS
    8 ECTS
    Organization | SE

    Organization | SE

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    • characteristics, typologies and structures of organizations
    • tasks, goals and strategies in organizations
    • organizational cultures, organizational environments and stakeholders
    • classical and current organizational theories
    • formal and informal structures in organizations
    • organization/s of the social economy in selected EU countries
    • change in organizations
    • power in organizations
    • equal opportunities and diversity

    Teaching method

    (guest) lectures, reading and processing of scientific literature, reflection on own experiences as a member in organizations, literature reflections, group work, plenary discussions, presentations

    Examination

    Final exam

    Teaching language

    Deutsch-Englisch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Quality Management | ILV

    Quality Management | ILV

    1.5 SWS   2 ECTS

    Content

    • quality management terms
    • main concepts
    • design of quality in the social economy
    • relevance of leadership styles within quality management
    • discussion and application of key methods of quality management
    • historical development of Total Quality Management (TQM)
    • standards according to ISO 9000ff
    • European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM)
    • quality label for social integration enterprises
    • examples of quality standards of social economy organizations
    • examples of standards and models used in the social economy

    Teaching method

    flipped classroom, literature work, lecture, group work, presentation, forum contributions (e.g. peer feedback), plenary discussions

    Examination

    Continuous assessment

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    1.5 SWS
    2 ECTS
    Impact Orientation | SE

    Impact Orientation | SE

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    • definition of basic terms
    • development and analysis of impact goals and impact models in selected fields of action
    • critical reflection of selected approaches of impact orientation / impact analyses on the basis of examples (e.g. impact evaluation in comparison between quantitative and qualitative methods; social return on investment)
    • reflection on the interaction of impact-oriented practice with the professional development of social work as well as the management of social economy organizations

    Teaching method

    lecture, discussion, reading and processing of scientific literature, individual and group exercises, presentations, critical individual reflections

    Examination

    Final exam: written reflection, term paper

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Module Human Resources Management and Development
    3 SWS
    6 ECTS
    Leadership and Self-Management | SE

    Leadership and Self-Management | SE

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    • Leadership 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0 and different leadership models
    • the role and tasks of managers, especially in the area of conflict between middle management and employees
    • leading employees - with a special focus on the topic of communication and conflict management
    • dealing with different stakeholders
    • leadership of employees
    • leadership skills
    • methods of self-management
    • practical examples
    • group building process phases
    • tasks and structures of cooperation in teams and small groups
    • learning processes in groups
    • information at the beginning of the Master's program

    Teaching method

    flipped classroom, lecture, group work, presentation, forum postings (e.g., peer feedback), plenary discussions

    Examination

    Continuous assessment

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Social work as a profession in the social economy | ILV

    Social work as a profession in the social economy | ILV

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    • the topic of Social Work
    • Social Work as a field of science
    • overview about Social Work research
    • characteristics and specifics of professional help
    • fields of action and current developments in Social Work
    • past and present qualifications and education in Social Work in Austria from a human resources management perspective

    Teaching method

    flipped classroom, literature work, lecture, group work, presentation, forum contributions (e.g. peer feedback)

    Examination

    Continuous assessment

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Module Practice-oriented research in Social Economy
    2.5 SWS
    5 ECTS
    Research and Evaluation Design | ILV

    Research and Evaluation Design | ILV

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    • assessment of the student's position (with regard to knowledge of scientific-empirical work)
    • detailed literature research strategies and techniques of scientific work
    • methodological and paradigmatic basics of reconstructive (qualitative), quantitative and triangulative (mixed method) data collection and evaluation methods
    • selected research approaches and sampling strategies
    • overview of evaluation approaches and social framework conditions of social science evaluation
    • complementary / related approaches: quality management
    • basics of planning and conducting evaluations
    • theory and methodology of impact analysis
    • social context of evaluations and the role of evaluators
    • limits and possibilities of different research designs

    Teaching method

    inputs by the instructor, reading and analysis of scientific literature, discussions, small group work, exercises to determine one's own competencies, distance exercises, analysis of practical case studies, presentations

    Examination

    Continuous assessment

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Handling Complexity | ILV

    Handling Complexity | ILV

    1 SWS   2 ECTS

    Content

    • concepts of complexity management in social economy organizations
    • assessment of the students' current position
    • defining goals for the further development of one's own research competence within the framework of the study program
    • defining goals for professional development and for positioning oneself as a leader
    • techniques of self-regulated writing
    • problem analysis and dealing with change under conditions of complexity
    • dealing with uncertainties

    Teaching method

    video inputs, guided online practice phase, instruction on and training in self-regulated, self-reflective reading and writing, peer feedback, discussion, and self-reflection

    Examination

    Continuous assessment

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    1 SWS
    2 ECTS
    Module Legal Framework
    4 SWS
    8 ECTS
    Accounting in Social Economy | ILV

    Accounting in Social Economy | ILV

    2.5 SWS   5 ECTS

    Content

    • meaning and tasks of management accounting and its sub-areas as a source of information for operational control
    • basics and logic of cash accounting and double-entry bookkeeping
    • bookkeeping accounts, voucher systems and accounting cycle
    • accounting of typical running business cases from the social economy
    • entries in the annual financial statements, calculation of profit, preparation of a simple closing balance sheet
    • basic principles of the taxation of social economy organizations
    • basic principles of calculation and accounting of personnel expenses
    • financial statement analysis including performance indicators, interpreting the annual financial statements of social economy organizations

    Teaching method

    lecture, group exercises, discussion, work assignments with feedback, case studies and practical exercises, midterm exam, final assignment in groups

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: 55% homework assignments, 10% presentation, 35% final assignment in groups

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    2.5 SWS
    5 ECTS
    Civil and Corporate Law | ILV

    Civil and Corporate Law | ILV

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    Civil Law

    • contract law (warranty, contract rescission, etc.)
    • compensation for damages (also liability)
    • civil proceedings

    Corporate Law

    • application of the term "company" to non-profit organizations
    • important regulations of the Austrian Enterprise Code such as company name, company register, partnerships
    • legal basis of legal forms relevant for the social economy such as corporations, cooperatives and associations as well as their tax aspects
    • state aid, grants and subsidy agreements
    • basic principles of awarding public contracts (public procurement law)

    Teaching method

    lecture, group work, discussion, e-learning work assignments with feedback/discussion in distance learning, case studies

    Examination

    Final exam: written exam

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Module Social Economy as Field of Action
    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Introduction to Social Economy | VO

    Introduction to Social Economy | VO

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    • social economy & social management: development, definition, delimitation
    • social economy in Austria: figures, data, tasks, types of organizations
    • nonprofit, lowprofit, profit in times of hybrid organizations
    • definition and characteristics of social services
    • social entrepreneurship, social business and social-economic enterprises as special organizational forms of the social economy
    • the economic concept in the social sector: effectiveness, efficiency, profitability,
    • the conflicting fields of economization
    • special features of the social market: business management vs. economic analysis
    • sustainability, innovation and digitalization as cross-cutting issues in social economy organizations
    • current developments/issues in the Austrian social economy

    Teaching method

    lecture, discussion, work assignments with peer feedback, research assignments, guest lectures

    Examination

    Final exam: seminar paper, moodle test, individual assignments

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS

    Module Current Developments in Social Economy 1
    2 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Spring School 1: Leadership in Change | ILV

    Spring School 1: Leadership in Change | ILV

    1.5 SWS   2.5 ECTS

    Content

    presentation and discussion of

    • current topics related to the social economy and social work with national and international relevance
    • national and international research results
    • best practice models from Austria and abroad
    • changing socio-political and legal framework conditions and their impact on the social economy and social work
    • innovative, alternative, sustainable social economy services and business models

    Teaching method

    lectures, group work, discussion, work assignments with (peer) feedback

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: reflection on the central findings and implications for one's own field of action

    Teaching language

    Deutsch-Englisch

    1.5 SWS
    2.5 ECTS
    Synthesis Workshop 1 | SE

    Synthesis Workshop 1 | SE

    0.5 SWS   0.5 ECTS

    Content

    • mapping the social economy
    • social management as a field of competence
    • tasks of a manager in different levels of the organization
    • individual positioning from the perspective of the study program

    Teaching method

    group work, discussion, work assignments with (peer) feedback

    Examination

    Continuous assessment

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    0.5 SWS
    0.5 ECTS
    Module Marketing and Corporate Communications
    2 SWS
    4 ECTS
    Social Marketing | ILV

    Social Marketing | ILV

    2 SWS   4 ECTS

    Content

    • definition of marketing and professional classification
    • tasks and goals of marketing management in the social economy
    • marketing management process for social organizations
    • assessment of the situation & identification of relevant environmental factors
    • (social) market and service definition
    • market segmentation and positioning in social economy
    • definition and management of marketing goals
    • marketing strategies for different business models in the social economy
    • marketing financing

    Teaching method

    combination of lecture, group work and exercises, feedback, work assignments with feedback, practical exercises, discussions

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: continuous assessment (several assignments)

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    2 SWS
    4 ECTS
    Module Human Resources Management and Development
    2 SWS
    4 ECTS
    Human Resources Management | ILV

    Human Resources Management | ILV

    2 SWS   4 ECTS

    Content

    • competence management including personnel planning, recruitment and selection of personnel
    • personnel development
    • personnel assessment
    • personnel management as a strategic and operative management task (leadership, management concepts, communication processes, consolidation of selected focal points)

    Teaching method

    team teaching, flipped classroom, literature work, lecture, group work, plenary discussions, presentation, forum posts (e.g. peer feedback).

    Examination

    Continuous assessment

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    2 SWS
    4 ECTS
    Module Planning and Business Management Control
    2 SWS
    4 ECTS
    Management Control | ILV

    Management Control | ILV

    2 SWS   4 ECTS

    Content

    • basics of controlling (goals, tasks, role of controllers) and understanding of controlling in the social economy
    • focus and goals of operational and strategic controlling as well as performance and impact controlling in the social economy
    • controlling in interaction with other areas of internal and external accounting as well as at the interface to quality management
    • information provided by controlling
    • key figures and key figure systems (e.g. Balanced Scorecard) as central instruments of controlling
    • planning & coordination: goals and success parameters of social economy organizations, target/actual comparisons, variance analyses and forecasts
    • overview of the instruments of strategic controlling for the analysis of the organizational environment as well as the company and business unit level
    • instruments of operational controlling: cost type, cost center and cost unit accounting
    • contribution margin accounting
    • cost accounting as the basis for calculating the per hour rate, case or subject costs, consulting, accommodation or care costs
    • overview of qualitative and quantitative tools of personnel controlling
    • personnel cost planning

    Teaching method

    lecture, group work, discussion, work assignments with feedback, group exercises, case studies, practical exercises

    Examination

    Final exam: written final examination, seminar paper, case study

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    2 SWS
    4 ECTS
    Module Practice-oriented research in Social Economy
    2 SWS
    4 ECTS
    Research Topics | SE

    Research Topics | SE

    0.5 SWS   0.5 ECTS

    Content

    • presentation of possible research topics by instructors and opportunity for students to contribute their own projects
    • development of two alternative outlines for the master thesis
    • clarification of their knowledge and skills or learning needs in order to implement the project idea
    • selection of a topic and a supervising teacher

    Teaching method

    exchange platform for topics and supervision possibilities (large group moderation); drafting of two master's thesis topic outlines

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: submission of two master's thesis outlines for the selection of a supervising teacher

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    0.5 SWS
    0.5 ECTS
    Master Thesis Design | ILV

    Master Thesis Design | ILV

    1.5 SWS   3.5 ECTS

    Content

    • drafting of a rough concept for the master's thesis (under the guidance of the supervisors).
    • planning of a scientific thesis (research question, state of research, methodological approach, relevance, objective, interest in knowledge)
    • theory-based development of a research question
    • application-oriented research designs on socio-economic issues

    Teaching method

    input from the course instructor, group work, plenary discussions, work assignments with (peer) feedback

    Examination

    Continuous assessment

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    1.5 SWS
    3.5 ECTS
    Module Legal Framework
    1.5 SWS
    2 ECTS
    Labor Law | ILV

    Labor Law | ILV

    1.5 SWS   2 ECTS

    Content

    • collective and individual labor law including social law regulations
    • contents, conclusion, possibilities of dissolution, possibilities of limitation of an employment contract
    • statutory rights and obligations of employers and employees
    • basic principles of the Professional Education and Training Act
    • protection against dismissal and redundancy
    • employment of third-country nationals
    • equal treatment in the world of work
    • handling of case studies in dealing with employees (e.g. mobbing and harassment)

    Teaching method

    lecture, group work, written paper, presentation, forum contributions (e.g. peer feedback)

    Examination

    Final exam: written exam

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    1.5 SWS
    2 ECTS
    Module Social and Environmental Sustainability
    1 SWS
    2 ECTS
    Inclusive Diversity Management | ILV

    Inclusive Diversity Management | ILV

    1 SWS   2 ECTS

    Content

    • overview of the topic of inclusion and diversity for social economy organizations
    • analysis of exclusion and inclusion processes as well as of conditions of social (in)equality
    • elaboration of the concepts of inclusion, diversity, heterogeneity and intersectionality with reference to historical developments, legal foundations as well as political/societal forces driving inclusion and diversity
    • identify theoretical, societal and organizational approaches as well as design possibilities and their organizational translation into operational practices along selected diversity dimensions (age, disability, ethnicity, gender/gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, and social class)
    • exploring context-sensitive concepts and measures of strategic inclusion and diversity management and translating them into own organizational action practices
    • activating the students' experiential and reflective knowledge as a central resource

    Teaching method

    (guest) lectures on inclusion and diversity, reading and analysis of scientific literature, discussions, small group work, analysis of case studies from practice, analysis of documents from the practice of social economy organizations (mission statements, inclusion measures, diversity strategies...), presentations

    Examination

    Continuous assessment

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    1 SWS
    2 ECTS
    Module Social Economy as Field of Action
    3.5 SWS
    7 ECTS
    Social Reporting and Social Planning | ILV

    Social Reporting and Social Planning | ILV

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    • Theoretical foundations of social planning, as well as conceptual foundations of
      * Integrated social planning
      * Regional social planning
      * Digitalization in social planning
      * Participation-oriented social planning
      * Social space-oriented social planning and reporting
    • Practical application of the concepts in various fields of action
    • Analysis of the changing social framework conditions for social planning and public services in Austria (federal government, federal states, municipalities)
    • Tasks, roles and challenges of social planning as a field of practice
    • Methods of social reporting as well as problem definition and critical analysis
    • Analysis of data availability and quality, data transparency and evidence-based planning in Austria
    • A Practical-oriented discussion with a focus on social planning in homelessness services
    • Input from guest lectures from municipal and regional social planning in Austria and Germany

    Teaching method

    lectures, discussion, distance exercises with feedback, group assignments

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Participation in the in-class lecture, written distance learning assignments, presentation

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Socio-political basics of the social economy | ILV

    Socio-political basics of the social economy | ILV

    2 SWS   4 ECTS

    Content

    • basic concepts in social policy: goals, instruments, actors
    • the Austrian welfare state: design principles, development and current challenges
    • basic concepts in economic and social policy in the EU: structures, working methods, policymaking, EU multi-level policies
    • comparative social policy: types of welfare states in Europe
    • comparative social policy: case studies - social policy in other EU countries, contributions of foreign guest lecturers

    Teaching method

    lecture, discussion, guest lectures

    Examination

    Continuous assessment

    Teaching language

    Deutsch-Englisch

    2 SWS
    4 ECTS

    Module Applied Empirical Social Research
    2.5 SWS
    4 ECTS
    Empirical Research 1 | ILV

    Empirical Research 1 | ILV

    2.5 SWS   4 ECTS

    Content

    • qualitative and quantitative survey methods
    • access to the field
    • specification of sampling strategies
    • implementation and reflection of the surveys
    • data documentation and collection
    • reflection on these instruments for evaluations
    • view on evaluation methods

    Teaching method

    lecture, reading and analysis of scientific literature, peer group learning, discussions, small group work, processing of case studies from evaluation practice, processing and testing of empirical survey and evaluation methods, presentations

    Examination

    Continuous assessment

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    2.5 SWS
    4 ECTS
    Module Marketing and Corporate Communications
    1.5 SWS
    2 ECTS
    Public Relations | SE

    Public Relations | SE

    1.5 SWS   2 ECTS

    Content

    Communication policy and leadership role

    • Current challenges: Why PR is more important today than ever?
    • Strategic corporate communication
    • The role of managers in communication policy
    • Stakeholder management: internal and external reference groups
    • The role of PR managers
    • Focus: social economy organizations and their sub-publics

    Instruments of public relations work

    • Main tasks of PR
    • Development of a PR concept in 7 steps
    • PR instruments and their use; tools & channels
    • PR instruments with relevance for managers
    • Digitalization in PR
    • Focus: AI - and what managers should consider

    External image of an organization

    • Corporate storytelling
    • Crisis communication
    • Communication of values
    • Event communication

     

    Teaching method

    Lecture/presentation, discussion, peer feedback, practical exercises

    Examination

    Final exam

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    1.5 SWS
    2 ECTS
    Module Master‘s Thesis
    2 SWS
    4 ECTS
    Master‘s Thesis Part 1 | MT

    Master‘s Thesis Part 1 | MT

    2 SWS   4 ECTS

    Content

    • development and elaboration of the research design in the form of an exposé for the master's thesis
    • presentation, reflection and discussion of the individual work and its intermediate steps in a conductive collegial setting (master thesis coaching), which is jointly designed by teachers and students
    • reflection on the chosen sampling strategies, access to the field, survey instruments
    • quality criteria and ethical aspects of empirical studies
    • techniques of critical and self-regulated reading and writing
    • cross-references to professional fields of action

    Teaching method

    group work, discussion, expert input, work assignments with (peer) feedback

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: exposé of the master thesis

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    2 SWS
    4 ECTS
    Module Planning and Business Management Control
    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Financing in Social Economy | ILV

    Financing in Social Economy | ILV

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    • basics of financing in the social economy: tasks, functions, forms and sources
    • financial management: financial and liquidity planning, budgeting
    • forms and sources of public financing
    • forms and sources of classic private financing for the social economy
    • forms and sources of alternative financing for the social economy
    • development and presentation of a financing concept by the students
    • basic principles of financial negotiations

    Teaching method

    lecture, group work, discussion, work assignments with feedback, group exercises, case studies, practical exercises

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: written term paper, presentation, pitch

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Module Social Economy and Social Work in Europe
    5.5 SWS
    10 ECTS
    EU Funding | SE

    EU Funding | SE

    1 SWS   1.5 ECTS

    Content

    • policy fields and funding strategies of the European Union and instruments of their implementation
    • social Innovation and social entrepreneurship in the EU
    • EU structural funds (with focus on ESF and EFRE)
    • funding logics of the European Union
    • selected funding areas, priorities and action programs in the respective funding period
    • What can increase project chances?

    Teaching method

    theory inputs, exercises (group work), topic-guided subject research

    Examination

    Continuous assessment

    Teaching language

    Deutsch-Englisch

    1 SWS
    1.5 ECTS
    Intercultural Project in Social Economy | ILV

    Intercultural Project in Social Economy | ILV

    3.5 SWS   7 ECTS

    Content

    • overview of social policy and the social security system in the respective host country
    • social economy, social work and the social sector in the respective host country
    • learning about selected examples of social economy organizations in the respective host country
    • development and presentation of a project concept (with EU funding) for a social economy organization

    All content is taught and delivered at one of the joint degree partner universities. Language: English or language of the host country

    Teaching method

    Blended learning course with the following components:
    1) Online preparation phase with a kick-off and first online meetings
    2) On-site phase as a 9-day study visit to a partner university in the respective host country
    3) Online follow-up phase with online coaching and online project group meetings for writing a project report in a working group

    Teaching and learning methods used:

    • Reading and working on academic literature
    • Internationalization@home (virtual component of mobility)
    • International student mobility (physical component of mobility): Learning and experiencing working in and with the field, (guest) lectures, visits to social economy and social work institutions in countries of the joint degree network, case work, group work in intercultural and international teams, presentations, peer exchange

    Examination

    Continuous assessment

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    3.5 SWS
    7 ECTS
    Project Management | SE

    Project Management | SE

    1 SWS   1.5 ECTS

    Content

    • What is a project?
    • managing projects
    • defining project goals and project target groups
    • preparation phase: project rough planning
    • project start-up phase and implementation: getting the project "on track"
    • monitoring project success: project risks, project controlling
    • project communication
    • project documentation, project manual
    • overview of the most important methods and tools for an (international) project in the social economy
    • project management keywords in English

    Teaching method

    flipped classroom, lecture, group work, presentation, topic-guided subject research, forum postings (e.g. peer feedback).

    Examination

    Continuous assessment

    Teaching language

    Deutsch-Englisch

    1 SWS
    1.5 ECTS
    Module Social and Environmental Sustainability
    2 SWS
    4 ECTS
    Sustainability Management and Green Controlling | ILV

    Sustainability Management and Green Controlling | ILV

    2 SWS   4 ECTS

    Content

    • sustainability discourse since the 1970s (from the Club of Rome to the SDGs)
    • differentiation between sustainability management and corporate social responsibility
    • different perspectives of sustainability in the social economy
    • shifting away from the growth dogma
    • overview of alternative economic and social concepts
    • sustainability models: from the pillar, intersection and priority model to the Donat economy
    • the three dimensions of sustainability from the perspective of the social economy: ecological, social and economic sustainability
    • sustainability management: model, strategy, implementation in the social economy
    • from materiality analysis to sustainability goals
    • overview of various sustainability management tools
    • green controlling in the social economy: possibilities and benefits
    • sustainability reporting and the benefits of various standards and reporting templates

    Teaching method

    lecture, group work, discussion, work assignments with feedback, group exercises, case studies, practical exercises, business game

    Examination

    Final exam: seminar paper, case study

    Teaching language

    Deutsch-Englisch

    2 SWS
    4 ECTS
    Module Strategy and Innovation
    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Innovation Management | SE

    Innovation Management | SE

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    • models and principles of change
    • change design and change architecture
    • psychology and organizational logic of change
    • principles and concepts of social innovation
    • innovation in the public sector, nonprofit and service sectors
    • innovation and its management of change in the social economy

    Teaching method

    flipped classroom, literature work, lecture, group work, presentation, plenary discussions, forum contributions (e.g. peer feedback)

    Examination

    Continuous assessment

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS

    Module Current Developments in Social Economy 2
    2 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Spring School 2: Leadership in Change | ILV

    Spring School 2: Leadership in Change | ILV

    1.5 SWS   2.5 ECTS

    Content

    presentation and discussion of

    • current topics related to the social economy and social work with national and international relevance
    • national and international research results
    • best practice models from Austria and abroad
    • changing socio-political and legal framework conditions and their impact on the social economy and social work
    • innovative, alternative, sustainable social economy services and business models

    Teaching method

    lectures, group work, discussion, work assignments with (peer) feedback

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: reflection on the central findings and implications for one's own field of action

    Teaching language

    Deutsch-Englisch

    1.5 SWS
    2.5 ECTS
    Synthesis Workshop 2 | SE

    Synthesis Workshop 2 | SE

    0.5 SWS   0.5 ECTS

    Content

    • strategy options in the social economy
    • review of the analytical instruments from the different courses
    • reflection of the operational use in specific fields of action

    Teaching method

    group work, discussion, work assignments with (peer) feedback

    Examination

    Continuous assessment

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    0.5 SWS
    0.5 ECTS
    Module Applied Empirical Social Research
    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Empirical Research 2 | UE

    Empirical Research 2 | UE

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    • qualitative and quantitative (via SPSS) evaluation methods
    • interpretation of results and reaching conclusions
    • testing, applying and deepening empirical survey and evaluation methods
    • reflection of these instruments for evaluations
    • reflection on evaluation between scientific quality criteria and specific requirements of practice
    • discussion of empirical methods under theoretical and method-critical aspects

    Teaching method

    independent testing of empirical survey and evaluation methods, peer group learning, discussions, small group work, working on case studies from evaluation practice

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: working on case studies

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Module Master‘s Thesis
    1 SWS
    18 ECTS
    Master‘s Thesis Part 2 | MT

    Master‘s Thesis Part 2 | MT

    1 SWS   16 ECTS

    Content

    • main focus: qualitative and quantitative evaluation methods
    • interpretation of results and reaching conclusions
    • discussion of the results under theoretical and methodological critical aspects
    • revising text modules and working out the final version of the master thesis
    • peer group learning and collegial exchange using the example of different papers

    Teaching method

    group work, discussion, expert input, work assignments with (peer) feedback

    Examination

    Final exam: submission of the master thesis

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    1 SWS
    16 ECTS
    Master's Examination | AP

    Master's Examination | AP

    0 SWS   2 ECTS

    Content

    Commissioned examination before a board of examiners in the relevant subject area:

    • presentation of the master thesis
    • examination interview about the master thesis as well as its cross connections to relevant subjects of the curriculum as well as other study-relevant contents

    Teaching method

    commission examination

    Examination

    Final exam: final commission examination

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    2 ECTS
    Module Strategy and Innovation
    4 SWS
    6 ECTS
    Strategic Company Management | SE

    Strategic Company Management | SE

    2.5 SWS   4 ECTS

    Content

    • basic aspects of management and strategy (necessities and goals, etc.)
    • concepts and models of management and strategy (normative, strategic and operational level, decision and goal etc.)
    • processes and perspectives of management and strategy (management cycle, strategy development)
    • techniques and tools of management and strategy (sector analysis, company analysis, portfolio analysis, SWOT etc.) and their application in social economy
    • personnel aspects of management and strategy in NPOs (characteristics and individual tasks such as maintaining contacts, etc.)
    • strategic management, leadership and corporate culture, meaning and interaction in NPOs
    • current issues in strategic management of a social economy organization in the form of a business game

    Teaching method

    flipped classroom, lecture, group work, business game, presentation, forum contributions

    Examination

    Continuous assessment

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    2.5 SWS
    4 ECTS
    Compulsory Elective Subject (2 ECTS of your choice)
    Compulsory Elective Subject: Digital Leadership | SE

    Compulsory Elective Subject: Digital Leadership | SE

    1.5 SWS   2 ECTS

    Content

    • trends of digital, social and global transformation and their impact on the social economy
    • relevant leadership concepts for digital leadership, skills and corporate culture
    • implementing digital leadership: practical methods and challenges in social organizations
    • reflection on own work experiences and skills in the context of digital transformation in the social economy

    Teaching method

    flipped classroom, lecture, group work, group coaching, case studies, presentation

    Examination

    Continuous assessment

    Teaching language

    Deutsch-Englisch

    1.5 SWS
    2 ECTS
    Compulsory Elective Subject: Company Formation  | SE

    Compulsory Elective Subject: Company Formation  | SE

    1.5 SWS   2 ECTS

    Content

    • from the idea to the company: basic questions about the foundation of a company or organization
    • legal basics and trade law with a focus on the social economy
    • significance and structure of the Canvas business model and the business plan in socio-economic contexts
    • business models in the social economy
    • overview of funding bodies/programs, counseling centers and start-up helpers

    Teaching method

    flipped classroom, lecture, group work, group coaching, case studies, presentation

    Examination

    Continuous assessment

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    1.5 SWS
    2 ECTS
    Compulsory Elective Subject: Impact Measurement | SE

    Compulsory Elective Subject: Impact Measurement | SE

    1.5 SWS   2 ECTS

    Content

    • current developments around the topic of impact orientation in the social economy using the example of specific fields of action such as child and youth welfare, homeless welfare, labor market integration, etc.
    • impact assessment in the context of monitoring and evaluation in the social economy: definition of impact goals, argumentation of impact models (logical models) and their operationalization
    • selected methods of impact analysis and their potential applications in comparison (e.g. impact evaluation in comparison between quantitative and qualitative methods; social return on investment)
    • reporting guidelines such as the Social Reporting Standard
    • familiarization with different strategies for scaling social impact
    • data literacy

    Teaching method

    flipped classroom, literature work and analysis of selected studies, lecture, group work, written work, presentation, forum contributions (e.g. peer feedback)

    Examination

    Continuous assessment

    Teaching language

    Deutsch-Englisch

    1.5 SWS
    2 ECTS

    Number of teaching weeks
    14 per semester

    Times
    Every three to four weeks Thu. to Sat. 9.45 a.m. to 5.15 p.m., with accompanying distance learning

    Electives
    Selection and participation according to available places. There may be separate admission procedures.

    For a joint degree (based on § 3 Section 2 Subsection 10 FHStG) you have to acquire at least 30 ECTS credits under the responsibility of our partner universities.

    • You will discuss current topics of social economy and social work at the Spring School 1 and 2 at Hochschule Campus Wien.
    • You will complete the module Social Economy and Social Work in Europe under the responsibility of a partner university abroad.
    • You will benefit from selected courses taught jointly together with a guest lecturer from a partner university.
    • Involvement of the partner universities in the degree completion (assessment of the master's thesis and master's examination).

    After graduation

    As a graduate of this program, a wide range of occupational fields and career opportunities are open to you. Find out here where your path can take you.

    Organizations offering social services are challenged to guarantee optimal service quality for their respective target groups on the basis of limited financial resources. As a graduate of this master's degree program, you will plan and design the necessary framework conditions.

    This will open up various professional positions and functions in nonprofit and forprofit organizations.

    • Managing directors, management, foundation of social-economic organizations (associations, gGmbHs, cooperatives), social-economic enterprises or social business

    • Management of (specialized) areas, departments, (international) projects, social and neighborhood centers, educational institutions, kindergartens, day care centers, residential homes, emergency shelters, counseling centers, outpatient services, areas of public administration, ...

      • Management/cooperation in administrative departments (marketing, fundraising, human resources management and development, quality management, innovation departments, policy departments, gender, diversity & inclusion departments)

      • Teaching and scientific work on research projects in research institutes or universities

        Acht grüne Spielfiguren aus Holz stehen in einem Kreis

        Pilot project on Sustainability

        The European master's program in Social Economy at Hochschule Campus Wien focuses on sustainability management in the social economy with an international teaching project.

        Project website

        Studying made easy

        Bücher mit Geld
        Funding & Scholarships

        More information here

        >
        Hände zeigen auf Weltkarte
        Time abroad

        Expertise, language skills, broadening horizons

        >
        Fish jumps out of fishbowl into another fishbowl
        Open Lectures

        Find out more, in German

        >
        Books and laptop
        Center for academic writing
        >
        Intensive German course
        >
        EICC
        >
        Doctoral Service
        >
        Validation
        >
        Accessibility
        >
        queer@HCW
        >

        Networking with graduates and organizations

        We work closely with numerous organizations in the social and public sectors, universities and research institutes. Our close cooperation with work placements in social work and social economy guarantees you strong contacts for your professional career or participation in research and development activities. You can find information about our cooperation activities and much more at Campusnetzwerk. It's well worth visiting the site as it may direct you to a new job or interesting event held by our cooperation partners!

        Contact

        Head of Degree Program

        Personal consultation via Zoom

        You are welcome to arrange your personal online consultation with the head of the degree program FH-Prof. Peter Stepanek. Please send a request to sozialwirtschaft@hcw.ac.at  to make an appointment.

        Administration

        Mag. Mag. Catharina Peric

        Room: B.2.28
        Favoritenstraße 226
        1100 Vienna
        +43 1 606 68 77-3200
        sozialwirtschaft@hcw.ac.at

        Office hours
        by appointment

        Activities in Research & Development

        The research activities of the program deal with current topics in the social economy: inclusion and diversity, areas of tension in social economy organizations, forms of participation (innovative tools, creative processes), impact orientation, sustainability management, solidarity economy and cooperatives.

         

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