Focus on the admission interview: What really matters

19.05.2025
News Study Program

A candidate enters the interview room – the admission interview plays a key role in the part-time degree program in Marketing & Communication Management at the FH Kufstein Tirol.

When an interview opens doors: For the Marketing & Communication Management degree program at the FH Kufstein Tirol, the admission interview plays a key role in the selection procedure. Prof. (FH) Dr. Wolfgang Reitberger and an applicant provide insights behind the scenes.

An excited glance, a deep breath – then the door to the interview room opens. On 29 April, a motivated applicant takes a decisive step closer to her goal. She wants to gain a seat on the part-time degree program in Marketing & Communication Management. With a clear idea of what she wants and palpable nervousness, she faces the admission interview. Wolfgang Reitberger, Director of Studies for the bachelor's degree program in Marketing & Communication Management and the master's degree program in Digital Marketing, explains what really matters in this dialogue – and why, in addition to professional preparation, personality is the decisive factor.

REAL IS BETTER THAN PERFECT

The structured online application process is followed by a personal interview. The focus is on motivation, ambition, and the ability to combine your degree program with your career.

Not only previous knowledge counts. Personal attitude is also essential. Dr. Wolfgang Reitberger and Prof. Lukas Hartleif, MA, assess whether the applicant's expectations match the structure of the program.

Perfect answers are not necessary. “A key factor is the ability to formulate thoughts clearly and communicate them coherently in conversation,” emphasizes Reitberger.

Time management and self-discipline are also important, as the format requires organization.
Those who have familiarized themselves with the curriculum demonstrate interest and clarity of purpose. “The interview is not a test, but a moment of clarity: those who show both enthusiasm and determination will be remembered,” says Reitberger.

Possible obstacles

It is disadvantageous if you cannot justify your decision to pursue the degree program.
Lack of preparation weakens the impression.

CHOOSING A DEGREE PROGRAM IS A LIFE DECISION. IT IS ESSENTIAL TO CONSIDER ALL OPTIONS CAREFULLY.

Prof. (FH) Dr. Wolfgang Reitberger

Director of Studies, Marketing & Communication Management

A lack of initiative leaves little impression. Without your own ideas, your profile will remain undefined.

BETWEEN PREPARATION AND PERSONALITY: AUTHENTICITY IS KING

The discussion covered current topics such as digital communication, social media, and trends in marketing. Previous professional experience and personal goals were also discussed. The connection to the choice of study program was important. Part of the interview was conducted in English to test international communication skills.

The applicant had prepared well: she studied the curriculum, analyzed marketing trends, and reflected on her experiences. “It is particularly convincing when it is clear that someone is not applying for a place at the university by chance, but with a clear inner conviction,” explains Reitberger.

At the end, the applicant leaves the interview feeling confident. She found the conversation very pleasant and conducted on an equal footing—an open exchange that not only confirmed her motivation but also gave her additional encouragement. Whether she will be accepted remains to be seen. One thing is clear: this application was a conscious step. Those who are willing to leave their comfort zone will continue to develop.

NEXT OPPORTUNITY: ADMISSION PROCEDURE IN JUNE

The next admission date is 17 June 2025. Interested parties can apply online until 8 June 2025. The interview offers an opportunity to learn more about the degree program and actively prepare for the next step in your career.