BOKU Vienna logo

BOKU Vienna

Vienna, AT · Ranking #201

The University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU) is a leading European institution specializing in sustainability, environmental sciences, agriculture, forestry, and biotechnology. Founded in 1872, it focuses on the responsible management of natural resources and the interaction between humans, environment, and technology. BOKU offers interdisciplinary programs that combine natural sciences, engineering, and socio-economic aspects, addressing global challenges such as climate change, food security, and sustainable development. The university operates modern research facilities and experimental farms, and collaborates closely with international organizations, industry, and public institutions. Its strong emphasis on applied research and fieldwork prepares students for impactful careers in environmental and life sciences sectors.

BOKU Vienna logo BOKU Vienna

BOKU Vienna

About the university

The University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU) is a leading European institution specializing in sustainability, environmental sciences, agriculture, forestry, and biotechnology. Founded in 1872, it focuses on the responsible management of natural resources and the interaction between humans, environment, and technology. BOKU offers interdisciplinary programs that combine natural sciences, engineering, and socio-economic aspects, addressing global challenges such as climate change, food security, and sustainable development. The university operates modern research facilities and experimental farms, and collaborates closely with international organizations, industry, and public institutions. Its strong emphasis on applied research and fieldwork prepares students for impactful careers in environmental and life sciences sectors.

Key information

  • Location: Vienna, AT
  • Ranking #201
  • QS #101
  • THE #401
  • US News #400
  • National ranking #5
  • Institution type: public

Popular faculties

  • Environmental Science
  • Agriculture
  • Forestry
  • Biotechnology
  • Food Science
  • Water Management

Programs (6)

  • Environmental Science
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Civil Engineering
  • Engineering
  • Economics

Student body

  • Total students: 13,000
  • Undergraduate: 7,500
  • Graduate: 4,000
  • International students: 25%

Campus life

BOKU Vienna (Universität für Bodenkultur Wien) is Austria's leading university for sustainability, natural resources, and life sciences. The main campus in Vienna's 19th district (Döbling) is close to the Vienna Woods and vineyards, offering a unique green setting within the city. BOKU operates additional facilities in Tulln (biotech campus) and across Austria for field research. With approximately 12,000 students, BOKU offers a more intimate university experience than the larger Vienna universities. The university is known for its strong community spirit and commitment to sustainability — the campus itself serves as a model for sustainable practices. Students enjoy proximity to Vienna's famous Heurige wine taverns in the hills above the city, and the Danube Island is nearby for summer activities.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: €700 - €1,300 / per month

Housing options

  • OeAD Student Housing
  • STUWO dormitories
  • home4students
  • Viennabase
  • Private shared apartments in Döbling area

Student clubs and organizations

  • ÖH BOKU Student Union
  • Environmental groups
  • Agricultural societies
  • International students network
  • Sustainability clubs

Sports

  • USI Vienna sports
  • Football
  • Swimming
  • Hiking
  • Cycling
  • Skiing

Career & internships

Employment rate: 90%

Partner companies

  • FAO
  • WWF
  • Bayer
  • Nestlé
  • Austrian Environmental Agency

Internships: BOKU integrates practical training, internships, and fieldwork into many programs, especially in environmental science, agriculture, and biotechnology. Students gain experience through research projects, industry placements, and collaborations with governmental and international organizations. Field-based learning is a key component, including work in forests, farms, and laboratories. Career services support students with job placements, internships, and networking events.

Admission requirements

Required documents

  • High school diploma
  • academic transcripts
  • German or English language certificate
  • passport

Minimum GPA: 3

Tuition costs

  • €1,600 - €2,000 / per year
  • Acceptance rate: 40.00%
  • Scholarships available: BOKU offers limited internal scholarships due to Austria’s low tuition fees, but students can apply for a wide range of external funding opportunities. These include Austrian government scholarships, Erasmus+ mobility programs, and research grants. Many scholarships are merit-based or need-based and may support living expenses, fieldwork, or participation in international projects. Graduate and doctoral students often have access to funded research positions within sustainability, environmental science, and biotechnology projects. BOKU also collaborates with international organizations, providing additional funding and mobility opportunities.

Quick facts

  • Founded: 1872
  • Teaching languages: english, german
  • Study formats: offline

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