Master's degree program

Sustainability Assessment and Resource Management*

Sustainability Assessment and Resource Management*

part-time

 
 

Sustainability Assessment and Resource Management*

Private and public companies have to operate with limited resources that are evaluated on all levels of sustainability (ecological, economic, social). This is where experts are needed who make knowledge-based decisions to support the company in its sustainable orientation. By interlinking the key areas of engineering, natural sciences, management, law and social sciences, graduates are enabled to act as an interdisciplinary link between these disciplines. With this Master's degree, graduates are able to plan and effectively implement sustainable solutions.  
In doing so, they make a significant contribution to a more efficient and environmentally friendly economy in line with the European Union's "Green Deal".

Department
Applied Life Sciences
Topic
Environment

Highlights

  • interdisciplinary degree program

  • international orientation

  • future topic of sustainability in all dimensions

     

    Facts

    Final degree

    Master of Science (MSc)

    Duration of course
    4 Semesters
    Organisational form
    part-time

    Tuition fee per semester

    € 363,361

    + ÖH premium + contribution2

    ECTS
    120 ECTS
    Language of instruction
    English

    Application winter semester 2025/26

    01. February 2025 - 31. May 2025

    Study places

    20

    Location

    FH Campus Wien

    1 Tuition fees for students from third countries € 727,- per semester. Details on tuition fees can be found in the general fee regulation.

    2 for additional study expenses (currently up to € 83,- depending on degree program and year)

    * Subject to approval by the AQ Austria.

    Before the studies

    You already have a Bachelor's degree in the fields of sustainability, packaging technology, resource management, environmental sciences or circular economy. Moreover, you are interested in evaluating the ecological, social and economic aspects of sustainability in order to shape society. For lateral entrants who are interested in this degree program, we offer an online course to catch up on content.

    Why you should study with us

    Study place = lab place

    Sharing is good, however, not your lab space, please. You are guaranteed your own.

    Highly sought-after knowledge

    What you learn here is crucial to solving global problems.

    International network

    Going abroad for an internship or a job: this is the next logical step when studying with us.

    Relevant admission requirement

    The relevant admission requirement is

    • the completion of a relevant Bachelor's degree program or
    • the completion of an equivalent degree program at a recognized domestic or foreign post-secondary educational institution.

    Graduates of the Bachelor's degree programs Sustainable Resource Management and Sustainable Packaging Technologyfulfill the subject-specific admission requirements.

    The Master's degree program Sustainability Assessment and Resource Management is a highly interdisciplinary program. We therefore welcome students with a background in sustainability. However, career changers from the fields of economics, natural sciences and engineering are also very welcome. Work experience in the field of sustainability will be positively considered in the application.
     
    A modular online bridge course with a total of 15 ECTS offered by FH Campus Wien allows you to catch up on missing knowledge and skills during the first semester.

    Language requirements for admission

    The course is taught entirely in English. The required language level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is at least

    • English - level B2.

    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 FH Campus Wien begins with your registration on our application platform. You can start your application directly in your online account or activate a reminder if the application phase has not yet started.

    Documents for your 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 a 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. For admission, proof of English language proficiency of at least level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is required. The following applies 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)
      • The English certificate can be obtained from the following institutes, among others:
        • FH 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.
    5. Curriculum vitae in tabular form in English
    6. Letter of motivation in English
    7. Legalizations and translations, if applicable (see tab "Foreign documents and degrees")

    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 consists of a written test and an interview with the admission committee. These will be scheduled from February to June - exact dates will be acknowledged soon.

    • Aim
      The aim is to ensure places are offered to those persons who complete the multi-level admission procedure with the best results. The tests are designed to assess the skills needed for your chosen profession.
    • Process
      In a written test your logical thinking skills and understanding of scientific processes are analyzed and documented. This test serves to determine your aptitude for a scientific education. In the second phase of the admission procedure you will take part in an interview to help determine your ability and readiness to learn. The focus is on motivation, capacity for careful consideration, ability to work well under pressure and endurance as well as the ability to express yourself verbally. The admission interview will be evaluated by a score.
    • Criteria
      The criteria for acceptance are based solely on performance. The geographical origin of the applicant has no influence on the admission decision. The admission requirements must be met in all cases. Applicants are evaluated according to the following weighting system:
      • Admission test (60%)
      • Admission interview (40%)

    The admission committee (which comprises, among others, the head of the academic section and representatives of the teaching staff) awards places to the applicants who score highest in the tests. The process as a whole and all test and assessment results from the admission procedure are documented in a transparent and verifiable manner.
     

    During the studies

    The master degree program was developed together with stakeholders from renowned companies in the producing and retail industry and with professional associations of the Austrian Economic Chambers.

    In teaching and research we cooperate with national and international partner universities, research institutes as well as numerous renowned companies in the industry. This network, which is constantly being expanded, allows us to attract outstanding lecturers, develop R&D projects and make excursions to industrial facilities. This provides you with excellent opportunities to make valuable contacts for your future career already during your studies. The degree program is offered at FH Campus Wien with modern lecture halls and fully equipped laboratory space.

    The degree program is part-time and has a high share of e-learning. Thus, it can be completed by people both living in Austria and abroad. Even though it is a “part-time” degree program, that does not mean you need to be employed.

    In addition, you will benefit from FH Campus Wien as a multidisciplinary university. For example, our institute cooperates in teaching and research with the departments Applied Life Sciences, Building and Design, Administration, Economics, Security & Politics and Social Work. The Campus and Green Lectures also explore current and diverse topics with prominent experts from the industry. Our institute is organizing events around the topics packing, sustainability and safety and FH Campus Wien regularly invites you to join these public events.

    During the studies, you will learn more about economic transformation processes in order to develop them further in a targeted manner. You will apply tools and strategies to carry out accompanying assessments and reflect on the legal framework and the goals of sustainable development. You will acquire the skills to make decisions in a business and social context.

    The teaching of business and social science concepts and management methods ensures that sustainability is also considered from an economic and social perspective. Students will acquire comprehensive know-how in data management and data analysis in order to carry out sustainability assessments. They will be able to interpret and prepare data in a targeted manner in order to carry out comprehensive sustainability reporting.

    Curriculum*

    Module Biological resources and ecosystem services
    3.5 SWS
    7 ECTS
    Biological resources and bioeconomy | ILV

    Biological resources and bioeconomy | ILV

    2 SWS   4 ECTS

    Content

    Bioeconomy and production of bioresources/natural materials

    • Ecological basics
      • Plant growth
      • Ecological systems and production
    • Agriculture
      • Products from agriculture
      • Conventional agriculture and organic farming
      • Types of agriculture (intensive, mountain pastures, plant and animal production)
      • Agriculture and environmental change
    • Forestry
      • Products from forestry
      • Sustainable management of forests (forests in Austria)
    • Bioeconomy and biorenewables

    Biotechnology and resources

    • Basics of microbial metabolism using relevant examples:
      • Autotrophic vs. heterotrophic organisms
      • Prokaryotes vs. eukaryotes
      • Nutrient requirements and prerequisites for microbial growth
    • Fundamentals of biotechnological processes
      • Measurement, control/regulation of process parameters (oxygen, temperature, pH value)
      • Sterile process technology and hygiene
      • Upstream and downstream processing
    • Application examples from green, gray and white biotechnology:
      • Alcoholic fermentation / Saccharomyces cerevisae
      • Production of enzymes in E.coli
      • Production of biogas

    Teaching method

    Lecture by lecturer

    Home teaching

    Joint calculations

    Discussions in the plenum

    Examination

    Final exam: Intermediate test

    Homework

    Simple calculations

    Final exam

    Literature

    Thrän, Daniela, and Urs Moesenfechtel, eds. "Das System Bioökonomie." (2020).

    Sillanpää, Mika, Mohamed Chaker Ncibi, and Mika ET Sillanpää. Sustainable bioeconomy. London: Springer, 2017.

    Capareda, Sergio. Introduction to biomass energy conversions. CRC press, 2023.

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    2 SWS
    4 ECTS
    Ecological cycles in nature | ILV

    Ecological cycles in nature | ILV

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    Ecological processes

    - Scientific basics

    - chemical processes (acid-base reaction, redox reaction, solubility)

    - physical processes

    - biological processes

    Energy cycle in nature

    Nutrient cycles

    - water

    - carbon

    - nitrogen

    - Sulphur

    - phosphorus

     

     

    Teaching method

    Lectures - Teachers

    Development of tasks in plenary and at home

    Discussions

    Working on case studies

    Distance learning

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Intermediate test

    Homework

    Calculation examples

    Final exam

    Literature

    Dontsova, Katerina, Zsuzsanna Balogh-Brunstad, and Gaël Le Roux, eds. Biogeochemical Cycles: Ecological Drivers and Environmental Impact. Vol. 251. John Wiley & Sons, 2020.

    Phelps, Lincoln. Chemistry for beginners. BoD–Books on Demand, 2022.

    Mulligan, Martin. Introduction to sustainability. Taylor & Francis, 2017.

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Module Ecological assesment tools
    3 SWS
    6 ECTS
    Material flow management and mass flow analysis | ILV

    Material flow management and mass flow analysis | ILV

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    - Definition and basics of material flow analysis

    - Norms and standards for material flow analysis and material flow cost accounting

    - Definition of relevant parameters

    - Theoretical and practical principles of material and energy balancing

    - Methodology for carrying out standardized material flow analysis

    - Practical application of the STAN software from TU Vienna

    Teaching method

    • Lectures by teachers
    • Discussions
    • Practical Example using STAN-Software from TU Vienna as homework with discussions at plenum

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Intermediate tests

    Homework

    Calculation project

     

    Literature

    Brunner, Paul H., and Helmut Rechberger. Handbook of material flow analysis: For environmental, resource, and waste engineers. CRC press, 2016.

    Cencic, Oliver, and Helmut Rechberger. "Material flow analysis with software STAN." EnviroInfo. 2008.

    Doty, Steve, and Wayne C. Turner. Energy management handbook. Crc Press, 2004.

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Selected topics of life cycle assessment | ILV

    Selected topics of life cycle assessment | ILV

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    Prerequisite for the course:

    • theory bridge course

    IC content:

    • in-depth studies of life cycle assessment (LCA) and related methodologies like Corporate Carbon Footprint (CCF), Product Carbon Footprint (PCF), Product Environmental Footprint (PEF) and Environmental Product Declaration (EPD)
    • allocation (e.g. system expansion, economic and mass based allocation)
    • impact assessment (normalization, weighting, interactions and correlations of impact categories)
    • different methods and characterization models including e.g. Environmental Footprint, IPCC, CML and AWARE
    • modelling of end of life (e.g. waste management processes with the Circular Footprint Formula)
    • sensitivity analyses to assess the influence of a changed parameter on the LCA results arising from e.g. data quality, cut-off criteria, allocation method)

    Teaching method

    Presentational methods:

    - Teaching and learning methods

    Participatory methods:

    - Blended learning

    - Exercises

    - Individual tasks

    - Group work

    - Presentations by the students

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: The integrated course is assessed through formative assessment. By awarding points during the integrated course (ongoing performance evaluation 80% mandatory attendance) and not just at the end through a final examination, several advantages arise:

    - The workload is distributed evenly throughout the semester.

    - The assessment does not represent a snapshot.

    - Teaching methods can be modified and adjusted as needed.

    - Students take active responsibility for the learning process and receive individual courses for action.

     

    Literature

    • ISO 14040/14044, Product Environmental Footprint Guidance
    • Environmental life cycle assessment
    • Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) – Complete Beginner’s Guide
    • Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) explained

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Module Law and society
    2.5 SWS
    5 ECTS
    Law and standards in resource management | ILV

    Law and standards in resource management | ILV

    2.5 SWS   5 ECTS

    Content

    This course introduces the legal frameworks relevant to resource management, focusing on European and Austrian law. Students will learn key legal concepts, including the staging of legal systems, public vs. private law, and environmental legislation. Practical sessions include navigating legal texts via the Austrian Legal Information System (RIS) and analyzing case studies.

    Introduction to Law and Legal Systems: What is law? Objectives and purposes of legal systems. Overview of the stages of legal systems: Constitution, statutes, regulations. Sources of law: International, EU, and Austrian law.

    Key Legal Distinctions: Public law vs. private law. Administrative law, constitutional law, and environmental law. Civil law and its implications for resource management.

    European Union Law in Resource Management: EU directives and regulations relevant to environmental and resource management. Principle of subsidiarity and its impact on national laws. Examples: EU Water Framework Directive, Circular Economy Action Plan.

    Austrian Legal System and Resource Management: Structure and functions of Austria's legal system. Key legislations such as Waste Management Act (AWG), Water Rights Act (WRG), Forest Act. Introduction to the Austrian Legal Information System (RIS).

    Working with Legal Texts: How to navigate and interpret legal texts using RIS. Hands-on workshop.

    Case Studies in Resource Management

    • Case Study 1: Compliance with environmental laws (e.g., waste management), using legal texts to identify obligations and propose solutions that align with legal and sustainability requirements.
    • Case Study 2: Dispute resolution in resource allocation applying relevant legislation to evaluate legal responsibilities, resolve conflicts, and promote sustainable practices.
    • Group discussion.

    Legal Trends and Challenges: Current challenges in resource management law (e.g., climate change litigation, biodiversity). The role of law in shaping sustainable resource use. Discussion: Ethical and legal considerations in resource management.

    Teaching method

    Blended learning

    • Lectures: Interactive overviews of legal frameworks.
    • Workshops: Hands-on practice with RIS and legal text analysis.
    • Case studies: Case study assignment

    Assessment: Participation, assignments, and a final case study project.

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Case study (homework)

    Final exam

    Participation in class (discussions)

     

    Literature

    • Umwelt- und Anlagenrecht, Band I: Interdisziplinäre Grundlagen by Erika Wagner
    • Umweltrecht by Gerhard Schnedl
    • EU Environmental Law by Ludwig Krämer
    • Austrian Legal Information System (RIS).
    • European Commission: Environmental Policies.

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    2.5 SWS
    5 ECTS
    Module Methods in scientific research
    1 SWS
    2 ECTS
    Scientific working | ILV

    Scientific working | ILV

    1 SWS   2 ECTS

    Content

    - Literature survey databases

    - How to prepare a scientific text

    - Citation of scientific literature

    - Avoiding plagiarism

    - Presentation techniques

    Teaching method

    Blended learning (including learning methods such as frontal teaching, distance learning, exercises, work tasks, students' presentations, etc.)

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Continuous assessment (including assessment methods such as preliminary test, intermediate test, homework, students' collaboration, and final exam)

    Literature

    - Skern, T. (2011): Writing Scientific English: A Workbook, UTB GmbH. ISBN-13: 978-3825236199

    - Peralta, M. (2013): Design of Experiments, CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform. ISBN-13: 978-1494378585

    - Montgomery, D. C. (2013): Design and analysis of experiments. International student version, eighth edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    1 SWS
    2 ECTS
    Module Science and internationalization
    1 SWS
    2 ECTS
    Professional English  | ILV

    Professional English  | ILV

    1 SWS   2 ECTS

    Content

    • Introduction to Professional English in Sustainability
    • Communication and Presentations for Sustainability Professionals
    • Intercultural and Interdisciplinary Communication in Global Sustainability Contexts

    Teaching method

    • Lectures
    • Tasks in class and at home (both individual and in groups)
    • Discussions & Presentations
    • Peer review, feedback & self-reflection
    • Distance learning

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: - Individual and Group Tasks

    - Discussions

    - Presentations

     

    Literature

    Selected academic journal articles and multimedia resources (videos, podcasts) on sustainability and resource management

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    1 SWS
    2 ECTS
    Module Society and social sustainability
    2.5 SWS
    5 ECTS
    Social sustainability and global challenges | ILV

    Social sustainability and global challenges | ILV

    2.5 SWS   5 ECTS

    Content

    • Social sustainability: holistic perspectives on sustainability
    • Social sustainability from a global perspective
    • Social aspects of the SDGs
    • Environmental and climate justice
    • Alternative economic and social concepts from a social perspective: degrowth, circular economy, economy for the common good, solidarity economy
    • Overview of the topics of social sustainability
    • Social sustainability in the corporate context
    • Social sustainability and sustainability reporting
    • Inner Development Goals: personal skills for transformation

    Teaching method

    Lecture, group work, individual work, case studies on environmental and climate justice, case studies on social sustainability in a business context

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Final exam

    intermediate test

    ongoing tasks

    home work

    Literature

    • Dominelli, Lena (2012): Green Social Work. From Environmental Crises to Environmental Justice. Cambridge/Malden: Polity Press.
    • Islam, S. Naszrul/Winkel, John (2017): Climate Change and Social Inequality. DESA Working Paper No. 152 ST/ESA/2017/DWP/152.
    • Judge, Madeline et al (2024):  Accelerating social tipping points in sustainable behaviors: Insights from a dynamic model of moralized social change. One Earth, Volume 7, Issue 5, 759 - 770. Available from:     www.cell.com/one-earth/fulltext/S2590-3322(24)00147-7
    • Raworth, Kate (2018): Doughnut Economics: Seven Ways to Think Like a 21st-Century Economis. Cornerstone
    • Savini, Federico (2023): Post-Growth, Degrowth, the Doughnut, and Circular Economy: A Short Guide for Policymakers. In: Journal of City Climate Policy and Economy, Volume 2, Issue 2, Jänner 2024, S. 113-123.
    • Utting, Peter (2023): Contemporary understandings. In: Yi, Ilcheong. [StM1] (Hg.) Encyclopedia of the Social and Solidarity Economy, Cheltenham: Edward Elgar Publishing, S. 19-26.

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    2.5 SWS
    5 ECTS
    Module Sustainable economy
    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Sustainable project management  | ILV

    Sustainable project management  | ILV

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    • Introduction to the basic concepts of sustainable project management, including the definition and differentiation of sustainable projects.
    • Examination of the environmental impact of projects, analysis of the social impact, assessment of economic sustainability.
    • Introduction to various methods for assessing sustainability within an project, presentation of tools and software to support sustainability assessment.
    • Integration of sustainability criteria into the project objectives and requirements, development of plans that take sustainability aspects into account, monitoring and controlling of sustainability performance (impact of the project on people and the environment), evaluation of sustainability performance and derivation of lessons learned. Focus on resource-saving time. Cost and resource planning.
    • Consideration of ecological and social aspects in role allocation and team development
    • Promotion of sustainable communication structures (e.g. paperless meetings, digital communication). Reduction of travel activities.
    • Determining the relevant stakeholders and their interests in relation to sustainability, developing communication strategies, promoting the active participation of stakeholders who contribute environmentally or socially relevant expertise through to end users
    • Documentation of sustainable lessons learned that can be used as standards for future projects
    • Introduction of a CIP for sustainability in project management
    • Presentation of best practices and strategies for sustainable project management, analysis of real projects that have successfully achieved sustainability goals.

    Teaching method

    • Lectures: In-depth study of the theoretical foundations and concepts of sustainable project management, including recent developments and best practices.
    • Case studies: Detailed analysis and discussion of real projects with a focus on sustainability to understand the application of the concepts in more complex and challenging projects.
    • Group work: Development and presentation of sustainable project plans, where students apply and extend their knowledge from the Bachelor program.
    • Guest lectures: Experts from the field share their experiences and best practices in sustainable project management to provide students with insights into current developments and challenges.
    • Discussions: Interactive discussions on current topics and challenges in sustainable project management to promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: - Examinations: Written examinations to test theoretical knowledge.

    - Project work: Creation and presentation of a sustainable project plan in group work.

    - Case study analysis: Analysis and evaluation of a case study with a focus on sustainability.

    - Collaboration: Active participation in discussions and group work.

     

    Literature

    • Kerzner, H. (2017). Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling.
    • Silvius, G., & Schipper, R. (2014). Sustainability in Project Management.
    • Gareis, R., Huemann, M., & Martinuzzi, A. (2013). Project Management and Sustainable Development Principles.
    • Elkington, J. (1997). Cannibals with Forks: The Triple Bottom Line of 21st Century Business.

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS

    Module Applied environmental technologies
    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Industrial plant enigineering and approval | ILV

    Industrial plant enigineering and approval | ILV

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

     

    Planning of industrial plants

    • Managing the project environment and potential conflicts with local authorities
    • classifying the necessary legal steps in technical projects
    • Preparation and discussion of documents for project approval
    • Types of documents required for approval (Austrian example)
    • Approval routes - emission and immission-neutral industrial plants

    Case studies

    • Industrial plants with simple technical equipment
    • Recycling plants
    • Water and wastewater treatment plants
    • Water energy plants - especially fish ladders

    Examination of industrial construction projects on the basis of the commercial regulations (Österreich - GewO)

    Teaching method

    •    Lectures by teachers
    •    Development of tasks in plenary and at home
    •    Discussions
    •    Working on case studies
    •    Distance learning

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Intermediate test

    Homework

    Calculation examples

    Final exam

    Literature

    • Legal Framwork
    • Kodex UmwR (GewO) i.d.g.F.
    • Kodex WRG i.d.g.F.
    • Kodex Abfallrecht i.d.g.F.
    • www.wko.at/betriebsanlagen/betriebsanlagengenehmigung-betreiberpflichten
    • Qasim, Syed R. Wastewater treatment plants: planning, design, and operation. Routledge, 2017.
    • Wiendahl, Hans-Peter, Jürgen Reichardt, and Peter Nyhuis. Handbook factory planning and design. Springer, 2015.

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Module Biological resources and ecosystem services
    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Biodiversity and nature conservation in resource management | ILV

    Biodiversity and nature conservation in resource management | ILV

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    Introduction to Biodiversity and Nature Conservation

    • The importance of biodiversity for ecological balance and human society
    • Threats to biodiversity: Climate change, habitat loss, invasive species, overuse of natural resources, and habitat fragmentation

    Ecological Fundamentals, Biodiversity, and Resource Management

    • Ecosystems and their functioning: Interactions between species and their habitats
    • Ecosystem services: Their significance for resource management (e.g. pollination, water filtration, carbon sequestration, soil formation)
    • Ecosystem carrying capacity and the concept of planetary boundaries (e.g. climate change, biodiversity loss, nutrient cycles)
    • Human impact on natural ecosystems and sustainable resource use
    • Resource management in different sectors, e.g. agriculture, forestry, industry

    Nature conservation instruments

    • Legal frameworks and international agreements: Overview of key national and international instruments (e.g. UN Convention on Biological Diversity, CITES, Natura 2000)
    • Basics of conservation: Goals and approaches to conservation (e.g. protected areas, restoration)
    • Monitoring and assessment of biodiversity

    Interactions between climate change and biodiversity

    • Overview of the impacts of climate change on biodiversity: Habitat changes, species distribution shifts, extreme weather events
    • Climate protection and climate change adaptation: Strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change on biodiversity
    • Nature-based solutions (NbS) for climate change: e.g. afforestation, peatland restoration, multi-benefit hedgerows as integrated measures for climate adaptation
    • Site visit to an example of nature-based solutions

    Nature Conservation and Sustainability in the Business Context

    • Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and biodiversity: Corporate strategies to promote biodiversity and sustainable business models
    • Sustainability certifications (e.g. FSC, MSC) and their role in conservation: The importance of certifications for sustainable resource use
    • Businesses and biodiversity management: Best-practice examples for managing biodiversity and evaluating corporate strategies regarding their impact on biodiversity

    Biodiversity Management and Policy Instruments

    • Market-based instruments such as Payments for Ecosystem Services (PES) and emissions trading systems
    • Conflicts between nature and biodiversity conservation and economic development and resource consumption
    • Planning instruments and decision-making aids in the context of conservation and resource use: Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA), Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
    • Future perspectives and strategies for sustainable resource use

    Teaching method

    • Lectures by teachers
    • Discussions
    • Site visit to nature-based solutions (NbS)
    • Working on best practice examples
    • Presentations by students
    • Distance learning

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Intermediate exam

    Homework and presentation

    Final exam

     

    Literature

    • Härdtle, Werner. Biodiversität, Ökosystemfunktionen und Naturschutz. Springer-Verlag, 2024.
    • Essl, Franz & Rabitsch, Wolfgang. Biodiversität und Klimawandel: Auswirkungen und Handlungsoptionen für den Naturschutz in Mitteleuropa. Springer-Verlag, 2017.

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Module Ecological assesment tools
    2 SWS
    4 ECTS
    Applied life cycle assessment | UE

    Applied life cycle assessment | UE

    2 SWS   4 ECTS

    Content

    • Investigation of existing LCA studies
    • Dealing with Ecoinvent, OpenLCA, as well as with streamlined tools
    • Realization of a full LCA study including definition of goal and scope, life cycle inventory, life cycle impact assessment and interpretation

    Teaching method

    Presentational methods:

    - Teaching and learning methods

    Participatory methods:

    - Blended learning

    - Exercises

    - Individual tasks

    - Group work

    - Presentations by the students

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Formative assessment:

    1. Installation OpenLCA (5 Points)

    2. Group work – Presentation (20 Points)

    3. Group work – Calculation (40 Points)

    3. Group work – Report (30 Points)

    5. Active participation in class (5 Points)

    Literature

    • ISO 14040/14044, Product Environmental Footprint Guidance
    • Environmental life cycle assessment
    • Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) – Complete Beginner’s Guide
    • Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) explained

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    2 SWS
    4 ECTS
    Module Energy, materials and circular economy
    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Energy technology  | ILV

    Energy technology  | ILV

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    Introduction to energy technology

    • Basic concepts
    • Forms of energy
    • Basics: SI units, basic units for energy and power (joule, kWh), power units (watt, MW, GW), electrical units (volt, ampere, ohm)
    • Current figures and trends

    Basics of energy generation and energy conversion

    • Fundamentals of thermal power plants:
      • CHP plants (fossil power plants (coal, gas and oil-fired power plants), hydrogen power plants, biomass power plants, waste incineration plants)
      • Nuclear power plants
      • Solar thermal power plants
      • Heating plants in general
    • Basics of renewable power plants
      • Wind power plants
      • Photovoltaic plants (PV)
      • Hydroelectric power plants
      • Tidal power plants
      • Wave power plants
      • Classification of heat pumps

    Basics of energy distribution

    • Basics of grids (definition and function of grids)
    • Electricity grid (design and structure in Austria, grid level, frequency, APG, etc.)
    • District heating network (district cooling network)
    • Gas grid (natural gas and future H2 grid)

    Basics of energy storage

    • Introduction to energy storage (why, challenges, ...)
    • Classification of energy storage systems (short-term/long-term storage, stationary/mobile)
    • Types of storage technology

    In-depth study: Electricity (wind power, PV, hydropower)

    • Electricity
    • Functionality and types of wind turbines
    • How PV works and types of PV systems
    • How hydropower plants work, core components, types of hydropower utilization

    Specialization: Thermodynamics, process engineering (heat pumps)

    • Fundamentals of thermodynamics and process engineering (law of conservation of energy, main laws of thermodynamics, ideal model Carnot process or refrigeration cycle)
    • Basic principle of the heat pump process

     

     

     

     

     

    Teaching method

    Lectures - Teachers

    Development of tasks in plenary and at home

    Discussions

    Working on case studies

    Distance learning

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Intermediate test

    Homework

    Calculation examples

    Final exam

    Literature

    Sorensen, Bent. Renewable energy. Elsevier, 2004.

    Winebrake, James J. Alternate Energy: Assessment & Implementation Reference Book. River Publishers, 2020.

    Priya, Shashank, and Daniel J. Inman, eds. Energy harvesting technologies. Vol. 21. New York: Springer, 2009.

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Module Methods in scientific research
    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Quantitative and qualitative methods in economic and social research | ILV

    Quantitative and qualitative methods in economic and social research | ILV

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    • Basic principles of quantitative and qualitative research
    • Research design and quality assurance
    • Quantitative methods:
      • Methods of quantification (Design and conduction of advanced questionnaires, …)
      • Assessment and presentation of results
    • Qualitative methods:
      • Overview of qualitative data collection methods
      • Overview of procedures for the analysis of qualitative data
      • Conduction of qualitative methods (expert interviews, …)
      • Helpful tools for qualitative methods (transcription)
    • Evaluation methods
    • Interpretation of data and critical reflection of results

    Teaching method

    Blended learning:

    • Lectures by teachers
    • Assignments, tasks and presentations
    • Discussions
    • Distance learning

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Immanent performance review (work assignments)

    Literature

    Thomas, C. George (2021): Research Methodology and Scientific Writing. 2nd Edition.

    Brace, Ian; Bolton, Kate (2022): Questionnaire Design. How to plan, structure and write survey material for effective market research. 5th edition.

    Kaplan, David (2004): The SAGE Handbook of Quantitative Methodology for the Social Sciences. London: Sage Publications

    Singh, Kultar (2007): Quantitative Social Research Methods. Sage Publications

    Creswell, W. John (2014): Research Design. Qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods approaches. Sage Publications

    Stockemer, Daniel; Bordeleau, Jean-Nicolas (2023): Quantitative Methods for the Social Sciences. A Practical Introduction with Examples in R.; 2nd edition. Springer

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Module Science and internationalization
    1 SWS
    2 ECTS
    Internationalization in sustainability | ILV

    Internationalization in sustainability | ILV

    1 SWS   2 ECTS

    Content

    • Globalization and its Impact on Sustainable Development
    • Key International Frameworks for Sustainability and the Role of International Organizations
    • Cross-Cultural Perspectives and Communication in International Sustainability
    • Innovation and Solutions for Global Social and Sustainability Challenges

    Teaching method

    • Lectures
    • Tasks in class and at home (both individual and in groups)
    • Discussions & Presentations
    • Peer review, feedback & self-reflection
    • Distance learning

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: • Individual and Group Tasks

    • Discussions

    • Presentations

     

    Literature

    • Selected academic journal articles and multimedia resources (videos, podcasts) on sustainability and resource management

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    1 SWS
    2 ECTS
    Module Society and social sustainability
    2.5 SWS
    5 ECTS
    Leadership | ILV

    Leadership | ILV

    1 SWS   2 ECTS

    Content

    Graduates are able to understand

    • the principles and systems of personal leadership profiles,
    • methods of self-perception and perception of others (feedback),
    • leadership styles and their application,
    • communication styles,
    • team work
    • systems of handling diversity

    Teaching method

    Didactic setting - in class (face-to-face) and online teaching:

    1 SWS / 2 ECTS (= 50 TU workload students) =

    7 TU in class teaching (face-to-face)

    1 TU exam (examination supervision by the lecturer)

    42 TU distance learning (=workload students)

     

    Presentational methods:

    Work assignments: Students develop sets of questions, the contents of which are examined in interim exams and subsequently discussed in case of uncertainties. Individual work: Students work on a topic of their choice. This serves both for deepening knowledge in a specific area and for learning how to write a scholarly paper. Creating a power point presentation: Students present the results of their work with the help of a power point presentation.

     

    Participatory methods:

    Group work: In addition to elaborating on a specific topic and applying learned concepts, students acquire interdisciplinary skills such as social skills, media didactics competence and language proficiency when working in groups.

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Formative assessment. 1. group assignment (30 points), 2. active participation during discussions (20 points) 3. homework (10 points) 4. written final examination (40 points)

    Literature

    Principles of Effective Management (Die Malik Management Systeme) (English Edition), Campus Verlag; 1. Edition (14. November 2011)

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    1 SWS
    2 ECTS
    Social life cycle assesment und impact evaluation | ILV

    Social life cycle assesment und impact evaluation | ILV

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    • Core concepts of sLCA (social footprint, social handprint, social hotspots, social risks, social impact, social performance, materiality and materiality assessment)
    • Social impact categories of sLCA
    • Stakeholder categories
    • Definition of Goal and Scope
    • Social Life Cycle Inventory
    • Social Life Cycle Impact Assessment
    • Interpretation
    • Linkages with other corporate social responsibility tools
    • Linkages with environmental LCA and life cycle costing

    Teaching method

    • Lectures by teachers
    • Blended learning
    • Exercises
    • Individual tasks
    • Group work
    • Presentations by the students

    Examination

    Final exam: Intermediate test

    Group Work

    Individual tasks

     

    Literature

    • ISO 26000, 2008. Guidance on Social Responsibility, Draft ISO/CD 26000 -2008-, International Organization for Stan­dardization.
    • Norris, G.A., 2006. Social Impacts in Product Life Cycles Towards Life Cycle Attribute Assessment. Int. J. Life Cycle Assess. 1, 97–104.
    • Benoît Norris, C.; Traverso, M.; Neugebauer, S.; Ekener, E.; Schaubroeck, T., Russo Garrido, S.; Berger, M.; Valdivia, S.; Lehmann, A.; Finkbeiner, M.; Arcese, G. (2020): Guidelines for Social Life Cycle Assessment of Products and Organizations. United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Module Sustainable economy
    3.5 SWS
    7 ECTS
    Alternative economic concepts for sustainable transformation  | ILV

    Alternative economic concepts for sustainable transformation  | ILV

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    Introduction to classical environmental economics

    • Economy and environment interaction
    • Growth and sustainable development
    • Management of scarce resources
    • Public and private goods
    • External effects

    Indicators

    • Classical economic indicators (Gross domestic product,...)
    • Alternative indicators for prosperity and wellbeing (Gender equality index, Human development index, Genuine Progress index...)

    Alternative economies

    • environmental and ecological economics
    • Economy for the common good
    • Degrowth
    • Circular economy
    • Shared economy
    • Crowd funding
    • Solidarity economy
    • Citizen power plants
    • Further projects and alliances

    Teaching method

    Lecture by lecturer

    Home teaching

    Joint calculations

    Discussions in the plenum

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Intermediate test

    Homework

    Simple calculations

    Final exam

    Literature

    Anderson, Victor. Alternative Economic Indicators (Routledge Revivals). Routledge, 2014.

    Thampapillai, Dodo, and Matthias Ruth. Environmental economics: Concepts, methods and policies. Routledge, 2019.

    Kopnina, Helen, and John Blewitt. Sustainable business: Key issues. Routledge, 2014.

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Sustainable innovation strategies and entrepreneurship | ILV

    Sustainable innovation strategies and entrepreneurship | ILV

    2 SWS   4 ECTS

    Content

    • System Model and Analysis: environment-social-economy
      • Role of enterprises and organizations in the systemic context
      • Challenges and status quo
    • Successfactors for the implementation of sustainable innovations
      • Know-how and consciousness
      • Strategy
      • Culture
      • Processes and structure
    • New models for sustainable innovations

    Teaching method

    • Lectures by teacher
    • Discussions
    • Case studies
    • Exercises and concept developments
    • Online co-creation sessions

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Contribution to the lessons

    Exercises (homework)

    Intermediate test

    Development and presentation of concepts

    Final exam

     

    Literature

    • William McDonough & Michael Braungart, Cradle to Cradle, North point press, 2002
    • Marc J. Epstein, Making Sustainability Work, Greanleaf Publishing, 2008
    • Annie Leonhard, the story of stuff, Econ, 2010
    • David Grayson, Chris Coulter, Mark Lee, The sustainable Business handbook, Kogan Page, 2022
    • Florian Lüdeke-Freund, Henning Breuer, Lorenzo Massa, Sustainable Business Model Design, Berlin 2022
    • Raphael Bömburg, Oliver Gassmann, Collaborative Advantage, Palgrave macmillan, 2024

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    2 SWS
    4 ECTS

    Module Applied environmental technologies
    3.5 SWS
    7 ECTS
    Practical course in environmental technology | UE

    Practical course in environmental technology | UE

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    • Fermentation process
      • A simple fermentation process, such as the production of alcohol with yeast, is carried out in the laboratory.
      • The process is continuously monitored and the most important parameters (pH value, sugar content, bacterial count) are measured.
      • The yield of the process and the course of the process are measured and a balance/yield is calculated for the entire process. This can be used as a basis for assessing the ecological footprint of the process.
    • Environmental analysis
      • Preparation of a water sample for chemical and microbiological analyses
      • Carrying out a phosphate measurement of the water
      • Water hardness measurement
      • Determination of bacterial count in water
      • Microscopy of water samples (zooplankton, phytoplankton)
      • Evaluation of water quality

    Teaching method

    Theory preparation in plenary and self-study

    Carrying out the laboratory work under supervision

    Preparation of a laboratory protocol

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Laboratory protocol

    Entry-level test environmental analysis

    Entry-level test biotechnology/fermentation

    Literature

    Andrews, Julian E., et al. An introduction to environmental chemistry. John Wiley & Sons, 2009.

    Christian, Gary D., Purnendu K. Dasgupta, and Kevin A. Schug. Analytical chemistry. John Wiley & Sons, 2013.

    Pumphrey, Brian, Christian Julien, and New Brunswick Scientific Benelux BV. "An introduction to fermentation." Fermentation Basics, New Brunswick Scientific (UK and The Netherlands) May (1996): 1-24.

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Selected and current topics in environmental technology | ILV

    Selected and current topics in environmental technology | ILV

    2 SWS   4 ECTS

    Content

    This course offers an in-depth insight into environmental technologies. In an applied part, students will work on current technological topics from environmental and resource management themselves. This is accompanied by lectures from the field.

    Selected environmental technologies:

    • Combustion
    • Air pollution control
    • Wastewater technology
    • Waste management technologies
      • Sorting technology
      • Recycling technology
      • Composting

    Current topics in environmental technology and sustainability

    • Current developments in environmental technology and resource management
    • Legal developments, entrepreneurship and technology
    • Guest lectures from the field

    Teaching method

    Frontal lecture

    Independent development of a current topic on resource management or environmental technology

    Group work to understand process chains

    External lectures from relevant branches of industry

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Final exam (40)

    Seminar paper (40)

    Homework (10)

    Presentation (10)

    Literature

    Fränzle, Stefan, Bernd Markert, and Simone Wünschmann. Introduction to environmental engineering. John Wiley & Sons, 2012.

    Hocking, Martin BB. Handbook of chemical technology and pollution control. Elsevier, 2006.

    Letcher, Trevor, and Daniel A. Vallero, eds. Waste: A handbook for management. Academic Press, 2019.

    Current scientific pubilcation of the toptic

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    2 SWS
    4 ECTS
    Module Energy, materials and circular economy
    3.5 SWS
    7 ECTS
    Energy economics and energy transformation | ILV

    Energy economics and energy transformation | ILV

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

     

    Energy economics

    • Analysis of energy demand
    • Energy efficiency measures
    • Finite fossil resources
    • - Historical developments
    • - Strong and weak sustainability
    • - The oil price
    • External effects and political control instruments
    • Electricity markets and renewable energies
    • - Price formation on electricity markets
    • - Merit order effects
    • - Subsidy instruments

    Energy management in companies

    • Energy data management in companies
    • Energy management systems (standards)
    • Regulatories for energy management
    • Energy efficiency in operation

    Teaching method

    Lectures - Teachers

    Development of tasks in plenary and at home

    Discussions

    Working on case studies

    Distance learning

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Intermediate test

    Homework

    Calculation examples

    Final exam

    Literature

    Doty, Steve, and Wayne C. Turner. Energy management handbook. Crc Press, 2004.

    Krüger, Heiko. European energy law and policy: an introduction. Edward Elgar Publishing, 2016.

    Bhattacharyya, Subhes C. Energy economics: concepts, issues, markets and governance. Springer Nature, 2019.

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Materials and circular economy | ILV

    Materials and circular economy | ILV

    2 SWS   4 ECTS

    Content

    In this course, the basics of materials science and waste management are briefly repeated in plenary sessions and deepened in self-study. The focus is on a consolidated understanding of the complex relationships between material properties and the use of materials in the context of circular economy and ecological product development.

    Materials

    • Types of materials and their most important properties
    • Properties and areas of application
    • Pure materials and composites

    Circular and waste management

    • Recap: Difference between waste management and circular economy
    • Waste management
    • Circular economy strategy

    Eco -Design

    • Definition of eco-design
    • ECO - Design PRocess
      • Principles
      • Approaches
      • Stages

    Teaching method

    Overview and recap of the most important basics in plenary and home study

    Analysis and critical reflection of a product or product group (depending on complexity)

    Based on the analysis, the entire life cycle of the products should be presented, problem areas identified and solutions proposed

    Presentation of the most important results and comparison with other groups, thus creating an understanding of different material applications

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: 2 Intermediate test on the theoretical basics

    Elaboration of a project study (analysis of a product/product group with regard to material use, ECO design and waste management)

    Presentation of the project results and comparison with other groups

    Literature

    González-Viñas, Wenceslao, and Héctor L. Mancini. An introduction to materials science. Princeton University Press, 2004.

    Keivanpour, Samira. Approaches, opportunities, and challenges for eco-design 4.0. Springer International Publishing, 2022.

    Liu, Lerwen, and Seeram Ramakrishna, eds. An introduction to circular economy. Singapore: Springer Singapore, 2021.

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    2 SWS
    4 ECTS
    Module Green marketing and communication
    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Green claims and sustainable communication | ILV

    Green claims and sustainable communication | ILV

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    • Green marketing of services and products
    • Stakeholders, their expectations and responsibilities
    • Implicit and explicit environmental claims
    • Greenwashing and greenhushing
    • Size and nature of the problem of misleading environmental claims in the European Union
    • (New) legislation in the European Union
      • Circular Economy Action Plan
      • Substantiation and communication of explicit environmental claims
      • Empowering consumers for the green transition
      • Eco-design requirements for sustainable products
    • (Legal) consequences of misleading claims
    • Existing labels and schemes (e.g., EU Ecolabel, EMAS))
    • Substantiation of environmental claims using robust, science based and verifiable methods (e.g., environmental footprint methods, ecodesign)

    Teaching method

    • Lecture
    • Discussion
    • Store check
    • Individual and group work
    • Expert interviews
    • Distance learning

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Intermediate test

    Final exam

     

    Literature

    • Nygaard, Arne (2024): Green Marketing and Entrepreneurship. Cham: Springer International Publishing; Imprint Springer.
    • European Commission: Directorate-General for Environment, McGuinn, J., McNeill, A., Markowska, A., Martinez-Bris, I. et al., Environmental claims in the EU – Inventory and reliability assessment – Final report, Publications Office of the European Union, 2024, data.europa.eu/doi/10.2779/83089
    • (Proposal for a) Directive on substantiation and communication of explicit environmental claims (Green Claims Directive)
    • (Proposal for a) Directive on empowering consumers for the green transition
    • Regulation (EU) 2024/1781 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 June 2024 establishing a framework for the setting of ecodesign requirements for sustainable products, amending Directive (EU) 2020/1828 and Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 and repealing Directive 2009/125/EC

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Module Reporting in resource management
    2.5 SWS
    5 ECTS
    Regulations in corporate sustainability management  | ILV

    Regulations in corporate sustainability management  | ILV

    2.5 SWS   5 ECTS

    Content

    Introduction to ESG management

    • Definition and meaning of ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance).
    • Overview of the historical development of ESG and sustainability in companies.
    • Relevance of ESG for stakeholders and company value.
    • Discussion of global standards and frameworks (e.g. UN Global Compact, GRI, SASB).
    • Case studies on the integration of ESG into corporate strategy.

    Environmental management and reporting

    • Deepening the 'environmental' aspect of ESG: environmental management systems, CO2 footprint, resource efficiency.
    • Methods for environmental assessment and reporting.
    • Introduction to relevant standards and guidelines (ISO 14001, EMAS).
    • Impact of environmental factors on the financial performance of companies.

    Social responsibility and governance

    • Deepening the 'social' and 'governance' aspects of ESG.
    • Topics such as working conditions, human rights, supply chain management, diversity & inclusion.
    • Corporate governance: structure, role and responsibility of corporate boards.
    • Analysis of social and governance components in corporate reports.

    The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD)

    • Introduction to the CSRD: background, objectives and scope.
    • Comparison between CSRD and previous reporting guidelines (e.g. Non-Financial Reporting Directive).
    • CSRD requirements for companies: Reporting obligations, content and format.
    • Linking CSRD with ESG management.

    ESG reporting practice and implementation of the CSRD

    • Preparation of a sustainability report taking into account ESG criteria and CSRD requirements.
    • Practical exercises on data collection, analysis and preparation for the report.
    • Analysis and discussion of real company reports in the context of CSRD.

    Teaching method

    Lecture
    Group work on case studies
    Plenary discussion
    Analysis of company reports
    Analysis of legal texts and guidelines
    Group work to prepare a fictitious sustainability report in accordance with CSRD

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Group project (50%): Creation of a fictitious sustainability report that fulfills CSRD requirements and takes ESG criteria into account.

     

    Written exam (50%): Query theoretical understanding and practical application of ESG management and CSRD.

    Literature

    Pflichtlektüre:
    - GRI Standards: „Global Reporting Initiative Sustainability Reporting Standards“ - European Commission: „CSRD Directive Text and Guidelines“
    Empfohlene Lektüre:
    - Eccles, R. G., Ioannou, I., & Serafeim, G. (2014). „The Impact of Corporate Sustainability on Organizational Processes and Performance.“ Management Science. - Freeman, R. E., & Dmytriyev, S. D. (2017). „Corporate Social Responsibility and Stakeholder Theory: Learning from Each Other.“ Symphonya. Emerging Issues in Management.

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    2.5 SWS
    5 ECTS
    Module Statistics and data management
    2.5 SWS
    5 ECTS
    Data management and statistics in sustainability management  | ILV

    Data management and statistics in sustainability management  | ILV

    2.5 SWS   5 ECTS

    Content

    Data life cycle: collection, storage, processing and analysis
    Statistical methods for sustainability analyses (descriptive and inferential statistical evaluation methods),

    Introduction to statistical analysis software (e.g. R), data analysis in sustainability management - identification of relevant data sources and methods for data collection

    Multivariate analyses to investigate complex relationships, time series analyses, predicting sustainability trends using regression analyses, creating dashboards

    Teaching method

    Lectures, practical exercises, group projects

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Final exam

    Homework

    Intermediate test

    Group project grade

    Literature

    Heumann, Christian, and Micheal Schomaker Shalabh. Introduction to statistics and data analysis. Springer, 2016.

    Zozus, Meredith. The data book: collection and management of research data. Chapman and Hall/CRC, 2017.

    Crawley, Michael J. Statistics: an introduction using R. John Wiley & Sons, 2014.

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    2.5 SWS
    5 ECTS
    Module Electives
    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    (3 ECTS of your choice)
    Ethics | ILV

    Ethics | ILV

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    • Basic ethical concepts
    • Ethical decision-making, self-responsibility, reflecting on consequences of actions (e.g. code of conduct)
    • Ethical issues related to the professional field (e.g. CSR, SDG, scientific integrity …)
    • Current ethical issues relevant to packaging technology and sustainability

    Teaching method

    Presentations, discussions and negotiations

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Continous assessment

    Contribution to discussion, Self-study tasks, individual presentation, final report, course reflection

    Literature

    Extensive course resources are provided in Moodle.

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Waste Prevention and Preservation of Resources | ILV

    Waste Prevention and Preservation of Resources | ILV

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    • Methods and instruments for waste prevention
    • Dimensions of sustainability
    • What is holistic sustainability and what does it entail?
    • Assessment methods for holistic sustainability
    • Recyclability assessment
    • EU recycling package
    • Collection systems, current collection, collection types, recycling quotas

    Teaching method

    • Presentation of relevant information
    • Use of interactive digital tools for integration into the lecture (mentimeter, etc.)
    • Workshop for evaluation of products
    • Introduction to product assessment in the lab (material type, size, weight,..)
    • Introduction to a sustainability evaluation software

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Presentation (25 points)

    Project Report (50 points)

    Participation (10 points)

    Homework (15 points)

    Literature

    • Circular Packaging Design Guideline - FH Campus Wien
    • Verification and examination of recyclability - Institute cyclos-HTP
    • Packaging Design For Recycling – ECR Austria
    • EU Packaging Waste Directive 94/62/EC
    • EU Single Use Plastic Directive 2019/904

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS

    Module Applied sustainability assessment and resource management
    2.5 SWS
    5 ECTS
    Project study: Sustainable product and process design  | UE

    Project study: Sustainable product and process design  | UE

    2.5 SWS   5 ECTS

    Content

    Definition of an objective for a project study based on the content of the Master's program

    • Input from companies
    • Input from research projects

    Applied methods

    • ECO design
    • LCA
    • Material analyses
    • Product analyses
    • Energy management of processes

    Creation of project documentation

    • Evaluation of results
    • Presentation of the results
    • Crisis and independent reflection of the results
    • Evaluation of the results based on the various pillars of sustainability

    Teaching method

    Theoretical input from researchers and companies

    Conducting an applied project study

    Analysis of a product and the production process steps

    - under the guidance of lecturers

    Independent implementation of a sustainability assessment

     

     

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Preparation of reports on the results of the project study

    At least 3 different reports during the semester

    Participation in the attendance blocks

    Recording of the project implementation

    Literature

    • ISO 14040/14044, Product Environmental Footprint Guidance
    • Environmental life cycle assessment
    • Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) – Complete Beginner’s Guide
    • Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) explained

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    2.5 SWS
    5 ECTS
    Module Green marketing and communication
    1 SWS
    2 ECTS
    Conflict management and presentation techniques | ILV

    Conflict management and presentation techniques | ILV

    1 SWS   2 ECTS

    Content

    • Identify traps in communication and situations prone to conflict
    • Conflict Escalation and De-Escalation
    • How to criticize: constructive vs. destructive criticism. Non-violent criticism. Rules for feedback
    • The potential within the conflict: learning constructive cooperation through solving the conflict
    • Conflict resolution methods

    This program is designed to develop your capabilities in interpersonal communication: avoiding unnecessary conflicts as well as conflict management and helping to settle conflicts.

     

    Teaching method

    Concise presentation of the theoretical background. "As much theory as necessary as little as possible".

    Topic-centered group work. Peer consultation, peer coaching.

    Feedback from lecturer and peers. Simulations of challenging situations.

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Continuous assessment, Standard (Continuous assessment (including assessment methods such as preliminary test, intermediate test, homework, students' collaboration, and final exam))

    Literature

    • Kilmann, Ralph H.: Kilmann Organizational Conflict Instrument, Kilmann Diagnostics. 2020. ISBN 978-0989571319
    • Rosenberg, Marshall B.: Nonviolent Communication 3rd Edition. Puddledancer Press. 2015. ISBN: 978-1892005281

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    1 SWS
    2 ECTS
    Module Master Thesis
    20 ECTS
    Master Exam | AP

    Master Exam | AP

    0 SWS   1 ECTS

    Content

    Students have to conduct a Master's thesis in English, present the topic and results within the Master seminar and pass a final Master's exam.

    The Master's thesis serves the evidence that the student is able to work on a scientific topic independently. The selected topic has to be related to sustainability and resource management.

    Teaching method

    Research-guided learning

    Examination

    Final exam: Master Exam - Presentation

    Literature

    Lindsay, D. R. (2020): Scientific writing. Thinking in words. Clayton South, Victoria: CSIRO Publishing.

    Teaching language

    Deutsch

    1 ECTS
    Master Thesis  | MT

    Master Thesis  | MT

    0 SWS   19 ECTS

    Content

    Students have to conduct a Master's thesis (16 ECTS) in English, present the topic and results within the Master seminar (3 ECTS) and pass a final Master's exam (2 ECTS).

    The Master's thesis serves the evidence that the student is able to work on a scientific topic independently. The selected topic has to be related to sustainability and respurce management.

    topics:

    Sustainable design and optimization of processes and products

    Innovative technologies for a sustainable transformation

    Implementation of law and standards in sustainable entrepreneurship

    Economic activity and assessment of the impact on the environment

    Teaching method

    Preparation of an exposé

    Consultation with supervisor

    Independent development of a scientific topic using scientific methods

    Examination

    Final exam: Grade Expose

    Grade Master thesis

    Literature

    • Lindsay, D. R. (2020): Scientific writing. Thinking in words. Clayton South, Victoria: CSIRO Publishing.

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    19 ECTS
    Module Electives
    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Electives (3 ECTS of your choice)
    Design Thinking | ILV

    Design Thinking | ILV

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    - Introduction on agile development methods
    - Deep dive into Design Thinking: mindset, process, phases, tools
    - Introduction of a Design Challenge by a company partner
    - Students run through a real Company Design Thinking project in teams
    - Final presentations in front of the company representatives

    Teaching method

    Didactic setting - in class (face-to-face) and online teaching:
    1,5 SWS / 3 ECTS (= 75 TU workload students) =
    11 TU in class teaching (face-to-face)
    1 TU exam (examination supervision by the lecturer)
    63 TU distance learning (=workload students)
    Presentational methods:
    Theory input, partner company insights, student coaching, joint reflexion.
    Participatory methods:
    Interactive workshop setting with synchronous and asynchronous phases.
    Online visualization and brainstorming software ideaflip

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: The integrated course is assessed through formative assessment. By

    awarding points during the integrated course (ongoing performance

    evaluation 80% mandatory attendance) and not just at the end

    through a final examination, several advantages arise:

    - The workload is distributed evenly throughout the semester.

    - The assessment does not represent a snapshot.

    - Teaching methods can be modified and adjusted as needed.

    - Students take active responsibility for the learning process and receive

    individual courses for action.

    In detail, the course is assessed through the following partial

    performance evaluations:

    1. assignments (75 points)2. peer assessment (10 points)

    3. active participation in the lectures (15 points)

    The overall assessment of all partial performances will be

    communicated by the lecturer in Moodle. The maximum achievable score

    for the overall assessment of all partial performances is 100 points.

    The overall assessment will be carried out according to the following

    grading scale and will be communicated by the course instructor in the

    students' portal.

    > 0 to 59 points => insufficient (5)

    > from 60 points => sufficient (4)

    > from 70 points => satisfactory (3)

    > from 80 points => good (2)

    > from 90 points => excellent (1)

    Literature

    Markus Blatt / Emmanuel Sauvonnet (Hrsg.): Mit Design Thinking Innovationen entwickeln und umsetzen. 2. Auflage. Vahlen 2017

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS
    Research Project Management - Implementation | ILV

    Research Project Management - Implementation | ILV

    1.5 SWS   3 ECTS

    Content

    Simulation of project implementation on basis of real life publicly funded project including

    • Project Kick-off
    • Development of RACI Matrix and to do lists
    • Resource planning
    • Management board meeting
    • Planning for project deviations and amendment
    • Decision making
    • Project close down

    Teaching method

    Blended learning (including learning methods such as frontal teaching, distance learning, exercises, work tasks, students´ presentations, etc)

    Examination

    Continuous assessment: Continuous assessment (including assessment methods such as preliminary test, intermediate test, homework, students´ collaboration, and final exam)

    Literature

    • ICB - IPMA Competence Baseline, Version 4.0
    • Happy Projects!: Project and programme management (Englisch) 1. November 2005
    • European Commission Centre of Excellence in Project Management (CoEPM²) PM² Project Management Methodology Guide 3.0

    Teaching language

    Englisch

    1.5 SWS
    3 ECTS

    Teaching times

    • 15 to 16 days, split over 4 blocks per semester; attendance for the whole day required
    • Supported by E-learning activities

    Electives in the curriculum

    As part of the curriculum, you must attend 3 elective courses worth 3 ECTS each. The elective courses may be from any program offered at FH Campus Wien, but must be related to sustainability or resource management. The possible electives and attendance of the courses is based on the number of available places. Some electives may require a separate admission procedure.

    * Subject to approval by the relevant bodies.

    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.

    The knowledge you acquire will open up many career prospects - you will be ideally qualified to work in senior positions in the manufacturing industry, the energy sector, the construction industry, service companies, the public sector, research institutions, educational institutions, consulting companies and NGOs.

    Graduates of the Master's degree program will take on key positions between technical experts and management, will take on reporting duties and derive concrete measures for companies. They will act as sustainability officers, resource managers and environmental consultants. With the Master's degree program Sustainability Assessment and Resource Management, you will be able to actively shape the process of selecting and implementing sustainable solutions in companies. You will thus contribute to a more efficient and environmentally friendly economy in line with the European Union's Green Deal. 

    • research institutions

    • educational institutions

      • NGOs

      • Consulting companies

        Downloads

        Themenfolder Applied Life Sciences
        pdf, 1 MB
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