MCI Campus Lienz: 22 Students Begin the New Academic Year

Four technology-focused bachelor’s programs with strong hands-on learning | New Student House strengthens Lienz as a place to study | Strong ties with regional technology companies

The new academic year is off to a successful start at MCI Campus Lienz. In September, 22 students – two more than last year – are beginning their bachelor’s studies in one of the campus’s four technology-focused programs. Nearly half of the incoming students come from North, East, and South Tyrol. Others are moving to Lienz from Carinthia, Upper Austria, Vorarlberg, and Germany to pursue their studies.

Cornelia Hagele, Tyrol’s State Minister for Education, Science, Health and Care, says:
“MCI Campus Lienz is an important asset for education and economic development in East Tyrol. When young people study here, gain hands-on experience with regional companies, and explore career opportunities in the area, they build valuable connections between education and the local economy. The opportunities MCI is creating here help retain highly qualified professionals in the region over the long term and further strengthen East Tyrol as an attractive place to study and work.”

The success of the MCI Campus Lienz model is reflected in the evaluation results from the past academic year. Since the campus began offering classes in fall 2025, every course has received excellent ratings from students. Lola Cierpka, a member of the first cohort at MCI Campus Lienz, says: “If I had the choice again, I would choose to study in Lienz every time. My time at MCI Campus Lienz has shaped me in many ways.”

New Student House in Lienz

A new addition this year is the Student House in the former Golden Star building, which provides housing for a large number of students from outside the region. Its central location, affordable rates, and shared living spaces offer an attractive option for students moving to Lienz for their studies.

“We are, of course, very pleased to see growing interest in our campus. The fact that 22 young people are starting their studies at MCI Campus Lienz this year – two more than last year – shows that our academic programs and student services are being well received. With the Student House, we can now provide our students with affordable housing close to campus while also creating opportunities to connect with one another. This is an important step in establishing Lienz as an attractive place to study,” says Hansjörg Jaufenthaler, Head of MCI Campus Lienz.

Career Opportunities in the Region

MCI Campus Lienz works to build strong connections between students and local businesses from the very beginning of their studies, with the goal of encouraging graduates to stay in the region. Internships, bachelor’s theses, and student jobs with regional companies give students valuable hands-on experience and help them build professional networks locally.

These opportunities are complemented by guest lectures, company visits, and faculty members from regional companies such as Liebherr, Durst, iDM, Hella, and MICADO. Together, these partnerships give students firsthand insight into the region’s business and technology sectors.