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Student Recruitment in St. Pölten

26 May 2026

New Design University Privatuniversität GesmbH (NDU) in St. Pölten faced the challenge of further developing its student recruitment strategies and strategically reviewing selected degree programs. Johannes Zederbauer, M.A., Vice Rector and Managing Director of NDU, commissioned CHE Consult to provide consulting services in this area.

The project was divided into two modules. In the first module, the CHE Consult team conducted a benchmarking analysis for three NDU degree programs. For each program, two comparable degree programs at other universities were identified and analyzed based on defined criteria. The comparison was conducted using criteria in the areas of “Academic Programs and Teaching” and “Resources and Infrastructure.” In addition, document analyses and extensive online research were conducted.

In the second module, the focus was on international student recruitment. To this end, CHE Consult’s data visualization tool “DaViT” was used, along with in-depth research into statistical data related to international students. Regular consultations with university officials made it possible to contextualize interim results and closely align the analyses with the university’s strategic priorities.

As a result, NDU received two detailed reports with concrete recommendations for action.

The benchmark check provided a structured framework for identifying the strengths and areas for improvement of the degree programs under review. Comparable solutions from other universities served as a guide for the further development of academic offerings, resources, and infrastructure.

With regard to international student recruitment, NDU gained data-driven insights into relevant source markets with a strong level of interest in studying among potential applicants. In the context of this project module, the extent to which establishing a fully English-language degree program could contribute to the university’s international positioning was also assessed.

Mag. Johannes Zederbauer spoke very positively about the results of CHE Consult’s work and agreed to recommend the consulting firm at any time.