Equality & Diversity

Accessibility for students at FH JOANNEUM

Diversity is part of our everyday life. Inclusion is our goal. Studying opens up new perspectives – and sometimes it also presents obstacles. For students with disabilities, chronic illnesses or mental health conditions, these challenges can be even greater. Our aim is to identify these obstacles together and remove them as far as possible within the scope of the law.

At FH JOANNEUM, we see accessibility as an important contribution to greater equality of opportunity – from the initial consultation through everyday student life to graduation.

What is important to us:

Accessibility is more than just physical accessibility – it starts with attitude.
We believe in individual solutions – no two cases are the same.
Confidentiality and respect are a matter of course for us.

‘It is important to us to promote conditions in which interests, talents and commitment shape the educational path – and barriers are gradually broken down.’

Equality and Diversity Team

Planning together – providing individual support

Early planning and needs-based steps can help to create the most favourable conditions possible for equal opportunities in higher education.

Our peer counsellors provide support with:

Application and admission procedures
Communication with programme directors and lecturers
Agreements on options for adapting examination modalities and course conditions
Assistance services and aids
Financing and funding opportunities
Questions about mental health
Contact with external counselling centres

Contact:

Mail: diversity@fh-joanneum.at
Address: Eggenberger Allee 11, 8020 Graz – Room 361, 3rd floor

Accessibility at our locations

We ensure comprehensive accessibility at all FH JOANNEUM locations:

Barrier-free parking spaces
Step-free access to all buildings
Barrier-free sanitary facilities & baby changing facilities
Barrier-free living in Greenbox WEST (Graz)

Focus on mental health

Successful studies require mental stability. That is why we offer several support services:

Online psychological counselling via Instahelp
Peer group for neurodivergent students (e.g. ADHD, autism)
ÖH subsidy for initial psychotherapeutic treatment
External support from the Psychological Student Counselling Service

Further information can be found on the page ‘Mental health – Are you ok?’.

Studying abroad – barrier-free travel

It is also possible to study abroad for a semester with a disability or chronic illness. Our International Office provides support with:

Selecting accessible partner universities
Erasmus+ special funding
Planning individual support measures

Further information can be found in the ‘International’ section.

Tip

Contact the Equality and Diversity Office of FH JOANNEUM as early as possible – ideally before the start of your studies or before exam periods. This gives us the opportunity to implement any measures and provisions as best as possible.