Information Montanuniversitaet
Franz Josef Strasse 18, A-8700 Leoben, Austria
http://www.unileoben.ac.at/
The early history of the University of Leoben
Due to an initiative of Archduke Johann the "Styrian Corporate School of Mining" was established in Vordernberg on November 4, 1840. The inaugural address of Peter Tunner demonstrates the intention of keeping the instruction on an academic level and of developing his school to a center for all experts in mining and metallurgy from the alpine region. The revolutionary year 1848 put an end to extremely successful years in Vordernberg and led to a significant change. Peter Tunner initiated the nationalization of his school and the transfer to the near town of Leoben. On November 1, 1849 the "Imperial and Royal School of Mining" could be inaugurated in Leoben with 48 students initially enrolled. On December 15, 1874 the "Imperial and Royal School of Mining" received a new statute which guaranteed a sound and steady development. The status of the teachers was ranked equal to the status of professors at technical universities.
University of Mining
An imperial decree of July 31,1904 changed the name of the mining academy to "University of Mining". Equal status to technical universities was finally gained when the academy was entitled to bestow doctoral degrees. In fall 1910 the university could move into new quarters which were extremely spacious for those days. Due to the rapid development of mining engineering the fields of studies Mining Engineering and Metallurgy were separated in the interval between World War I and II and a new study program was developed. World War II brought serious interferences in studying. These problems could be mastered by a decisive rector after 1945 and an urgently necessary extension for laboratories was built. The rapid stabilization after the war can also be seen in the increasing enrolment. After 1955 new fields of studies were added continuously, which in addition to the core subjects encompass a broad range of subject areas from raw materials to materials.
Montanuniversität Leoben
In 1970/71 the fields of studies Plastic Engineering and Materials Science were added. In 1992 two new fields of studies, Applied Geosciences and Industrial Environmental Protection were installed. The construction of a new building, opened in 1970, also demonstrates the extension. Since October 1, 1975 the university is called "Montanuniversität Leoben". Today, there exist 12 fields of studies ranging from mining via metallurgy to materials yielding to a bachelor, masters and Ph.D. More than 3000 students are currently subscribed.