University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna
About the university
The University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna (mdw) is one of the world’s largest and most prestigious institutions dedicated to music, theatre, and film arts. Founded in 1817, it has played a central role in shaping European classical music tradition and contemporary performing arts education. Located in Vienna, a global cultural capital, mdw offers highly selective programs in instrumental performance, vocal studies, conducting, composition, musicology, film, and drama. The university emphasizes artistic excellence, individual mentorship, and practical stage experience. Students benefit from access to professional концерт halls, studios, and collaborations with leading cultural institutions such as opera houses and orchestras. mdw maintains strong international partnerships and prepares graduates for global artistic careers.
Key information
- Location: Vienna, AT
- Ranking #1
- QS #5
- National ranking #10
- Institution type: public
Popular faculties
- Instrumental Studies
- Vocal Studies and Music Theatre
- Composition and Electroacoustics
- Conducting
- Music Education
- Musicology and Cultural Studies
- Film and Television
- Performing Arts
Programs (3)
- Music
- Fine Arts
- Education
Student body
- Total students: 3,000
- Undergraduate: 1,800
- Graduate: 900
- International students: 50%
Campus life
Campus life at mdw is highly artistic and performance-oriented. Students regularly participate in concerts, opera productions, theatre performances and film screenings as part of their curriculum. Vienna’s rich musical heritage provides direct access to world-class venues such as concert halls and opera houses. Collaboration between departments encourages interdisciplinary projects combining music, theatre and media. Students benefit from masterclasses with internationally renowned artists and networking opportunities within Europe’s cultural sector. The environment is competitive yet collaborative, fostering artistic growth and international exposure.
Housing & accommodation
Housing cost: €800 - €1,400 / per month
Housing options
- Vienna dormitory network (OeAD, STUWO, home4students)
- Private shared apartments
Student clubs and organizations
- Student union
- Orchestra ensembles
- Chamber music groups
- Opera productions
Sports
- USI Vienna sports courses
Career & internships
Employment rate: 85%
Partner companies
- Vienna State Opera
- Vienna Philharmonic (collaborations)
- Austrian theatres
- European orchestras
- cultural foundations
- film studios
- music academies and conservatories across Europe.
Internships: mdw students gain practical experience through stage productions, orchestra collaborations, internships in theatres, opera houses, film studios and cultural institutions in Austria and across Europe. Graduates often build careers as performers, composers, directors, educators or cultural managers.
Admission requirements
Required documents
- High school diploma
- academic transcripts
- audition/portfolio
- German or English language certificate
- CV
Minimum GPA: 3
Tuition costs
- €1,600 - €2,000 / per year
- Acceptance rate: 20.00%
- Scholarships available: mdw offers a limited number of scholarships, as tuition fees are relatively low in Austria. Students can access funding through Austrian government scholarships, Erasmus+ mobility programs, and specific artistic grants. Additional financial support may be available through foundations, competitions, and performance-based awards. Many scholarships are merit-based and linked to artistic excellence, auditions, or project work. Students may also receive support for international exchanges, masterclasses, and participation in festivals or competitions, which are integral to career development in the arts.
Quick facts
- Founded: 1817
- Teaching languages: english, german
- Study formats: offline
Contact
- Website: https://www.mdw.ac.at
- [email protected]
- +43 1 71155-0