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Business and controlling

Business and controlling is about how companies plan, make decisions and earn money. Numbers, conversations and strategy all work together.

Typical tasks

  • analysing figures and producing reports
  • planning budgets and monitoring costs
  • preparing decisions for management
  • watching markets and competitors
  • presenting results and discussing them with departments

Where people work

Business and controlling specialists work in companies in every sector, in banks and insurance companies, in consulting firms and in public administration.

A good fit if

  • you are interested in business
  • you like working with numbers
  • you are good at organising
  • you can convince others with arguments

Education pathways in Austria

In Austria the HAK (business college) with the Matura (school-leaving exam), a degree at an FH (university of applied sciences) or a business degree at a university lead into this field. In Germany the equivalent is the Fachoberschule Wirtschaft, a Hochschule für angewandte Wissenschaften or a university, in Switzerland the Berufsmaturität Wirtschaft, a Fachhochschule or a university or ETH.

HAK / HLT
Matura focused on business or tourism. 5 years
Fachhochschule (FH)
Practice-oriented degree, often with an internship. 3-year bachelor
Universität
Academic degree: bachelor, master or diploma. 3 to 6 years

Matching schools in Austria

A selection from our school list. Not every school of this type offers every specialisation, so ask the school directly.

  • BHAK Eisenstadt
    HAK, 7000 Eisenstadt, Burgenland
    Collected automaticallySource: initial collection from public information, as of Oktober 2026
  • BHAK und BHAS Wien 10
    HAK, 1100 Wien, Wien
    Collected automaticallySource: initial collection from public information, as of Oktober 2026
  • Vienna Business School HamerlingplatzPrivate school
    HAK, 1080 Wien, Wien
    Collected automaticallySource: initial collection from public information, as of Oktober 2026

Frequently asked questions

What does controlling involve?

Controllers keep an eye on the figures, compare plans with reality and help make good decisions.

Do I have to be very good at maths?

Solid maths skills help. Often it matters more to understand figures and explain them well.

Can I start working straight after the HAK?

Yes. The HAK is vocational training with the Matura, so you can start working directly or go on to study.

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