Programme choice
Discover your path at Zuyd
Choosing a study programme is an important decision – one that can shape your future. With so many options available, it can sometimes be difficult to determine which programme is the best fit. That’s why it’s so valuable to reflect on your interests, talents, and future ambitions.
At Zuyd University of Applied Sciences, we’re here to help you make an informed and confident programme choice. As a university of applied sciences, Zuyd offers practice-based education, where you apply what you learn in class right away. This means lots of collaborative projects, interactive lessons, and internships that prepare you directly for the job market. But studying at Zuyd is about more than just education. You’ll become part of a welcoming international student community in Maastricht, a city with a vibrant and lively student life.
Study events
You can’t make a study choice based on online information alone. That’s why Zuyd organises several events throughout the year to help you discover our university, programmes, and student life. During an Open Day, you’ll get a chance to experience the atmosphere, speak with lecturers and students, and explore whether the programme suits you. Take part in trial study classes to experience how our teaching style is interactive and applied.
You’ll also receive information about admission requirements, internship opportunities and future prospects. Want to know what job opportunities you have after graduation or which masters are a good fit? You can also get advice on that. Still weighing up your study options? A personal interview with a study adviser can help clarify your path.
Can’t attend in person? Zuyd also offers online information sessions and experience days, giving you the opportunity to explore your options from home. So you can be well prepared to make a study choice.
How to choose the right programme?
Choosing a study programme starts with you. What do you enjoy? What are you good at? And what kind of professional environment do you see yourself in? Reflecting on these questions will give you a clearer idea of which programme choice match your profile.
Steps to help you decide
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Explore your interests and talents
Think about subjects you enjoy, the types of projects that excite you, and the skills you’re most confident in.
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Explore the options
Check the full range of programmes on offer and review the relevant entry requirements. Zuyd provides a variety of practice-oriented programmes, both in the Netherlands and internationally.
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Use tools
Take a study choice test to discover which programmes align with your interests and strengths.
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Attend an Open Day or book an appointment
An open day is the perfect opportunity to experience the atmosphere, talk to students and lecturers, and get a feel for the programme. Would you prefer one-on-one guidance? You can also request a personal appointment with a study adviser.
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Think about career prospects
Don’t just focus on the programme content - think ahead. What careers could follow from your chosen study? Are there opportunities for progression?
It was the personal touch that made the difference
Chanaika studied at Zuyd and looks back on her student days with fondness. “At Zuyd, I never felt like just a number,” she says. “The small-scale atmosphere and the personal contact with fellow students and lecturers made me feel at home right away.” During her studies, she worked on projects for real organizations. “It was energizing to immediately apply what I learned in the classroom to real-life practice.” She also had the freedom to deepen and broaden her knowledge through minors and internships. “Those opportunities broadened my perspective on the professional field.” The sense of community at Zuyd has always stayed with her, with activities and events that fostered connection. “The combination of learning, doing, and experiencing together made me confident to apply my knowledge in the professional world.”
Studies at Zuyd: What are your options?
Zuyd offers a wide range of programmes that respond to current and future demands in the labour market. Whether you’re interested in technology, sustainability, communication or arts, you’ll find a study programme choice that matches your ambitions. Zuyd offers both Dutch- and English-taught programmes, with a strong focus on internationalisation and innovation. Every programme starts in September, and some also in February.
English-taught programmes (bachelor's and master's)
International Business
You’ll learn to think creatively and critically, spot opportunities, and collaborate internationally. From day one, you’ll work in English on real-world projects.
European Studies
The English-taught bachelor’s programme European Studies teaches you to work together on solutions for societal challenges in Europe.
Applied Data Science & Artificial Intelligence
Help doctors detect and predict diseases early. Or accelerate the energy transition by developing intelligent systems that predict our energy needs. We dive into data and algorithms, but also look at the impact of AI on society.
Good to know: the Artificial Intelligence bachelor is taught entirely in English, preparing you right from the start for an international working environment.
Circular Cities & Communities
You learn how to use energy and resources smartly in cities and neighbourhoods. You develop circular solutions and advise municipalities and businesses.
Admission and support of international students
Zuyd welcomes students from around the world and provides comprehensive support throughout the admission process and your transition to studying in the Netherlands.
Our International Office can help with:
- Visa and residence permit applications
- Scholarships and financial planning
- Admission procedures and diploma recognition via NUFFIC.
Not sure if your diploma meets the admission requirements? Visit the NUFFIC website or contact our International Office for advice.
Studying and future prospects
A degree from Zuyd is more than just an education – it’s preparation for your future. Our hands-on approach and close ties with industry increase your chances of entering the job market with confidence.
Each programme choice offers clear future prospects, and we prepare you for dynamic careers in fields like technology, healthcare, international relations, or the arts. Many students find a job soon after graduation – often with companies where they completed their internships.
During your studies, you’ll build a valuable professional network of lecturers, classmates and industry partners. Want to continue your studies after your bachelor’s? You can follow a master’s programme at Zuyd or another university in the Netherlands or abroad. Attend an Open Day and explore your study options at Zuyd.
HBO (professional higher education) vs WO (academic higher education)
Curious about the difference between HBO and WO in the Netherlands? Discover how universities of applied sciences focus on practical skills and real-world experience, while research universities dive deeper into theory and academic research. Learn which path best matches your interests, learning style, and career ambitions.
Dutch education system
The Dutch education system offers flexible pathways that suit everyone’s talents and ambitions. After primary school, students choose a route leading to vocational, applied, or academic programs. Universities of applied sciences and research universities prepare students for their future, either through practical training or theoretical study.
INKOM introduction programme
If you choose Zuyd, you’re also choosing to live in Maastricht, a vibrant city with an international atmosphere. You’ll find a range of student housing options, cosy cafés, and an active student community.
During INKOM, the official introduction week before your studies begin, you’ll get to know Holland, the city, your campus, and fellow students. This five-day event is a mix of informative and social activities, helping you settle into student life and feel at home right away.
Admission and support of international students
Admission and support of international students
Zuyd welcomes students from around the world and provides comprehensive support throughout the admission process and your transition to studying in the Netherlands.
Our International Office can help with:
- Visa and residence permit applications
- Scholarships and financial planning
- Admission procedures and diploma recognition via NUFFIC.
Not sure if your diploma meets the admission requirements? Visit the NUFFIC website or contact our International Office for advice.
Studying and future prospects
Studying and future prospects
A degree from Zuyd is more than just an education – it’s preparation for your future. Our hands-on approach and close ties with industry increase your chances of entering the job market with confidence.
Each programme choice offers clear future prospects, and we prepare you for dynamic careers in fields like technology, healthcare, international relations, or the arts. Many students find a job soon after graduation – often with companies where they completed their internships.
During your studies, you’ll build a valuable professional network of lecturers, classmates and industry partners. Want to continue your studies after your bachelor’s? You can follow a master’s programme at Zuyd or another university in the Netherlands or abroad. Attend an Open Day and explore your study options at Zuyd.
HBO (professional higher education) vs WO (academic higher education)
HBO (professional higher education) vs WO (academic higher education)
Curious about the difference between HBO and WO in the Netherlands? Discover how universities of applied sciences focus on practical skills and real-world experience, while research universities dive deeper into theory and academic research. Learn which path best matches your interests, learning style, and career ambitions.
Dutch education system
Dutch education system
The Dutch education system offers flexible pathways that suit everyone’s talents and ambitions. After primary school, students choose a route leading to vocational, applied, or academic programs. Universities of applied sciences and research universities prepare students for their future, either through practical training or theoretical study.
INKOM introduction programme
INKOM introduction programme
If you choose Zuyd, you’re also choosing to live in Maastricht, a vibrant city with an international atmosphere. You’ll find a range of student housing options, cosy cafés, and an active student community.
During INKOM, the official introduction week before your studies begin, you’ll get to know Holland, the city, your campus, and fellow students. This five-day event is a mix of informative and social activities, helping you settle into student life and feel at home right away.
Study choice support
Study help at Zuyd: Choose the support that suits you.
Studying in Maastricht
Maastricht is the ideal city for those looking for an international and welcoming place to study in the Netherlands. With its rich history, vibrant student life, and location near the borders of Belgium and Germany, Maastricht has everything you need. In this compact city, it’s easy to find your way around, with scenic squares and modern study facilities just minutes apart.
Why study in the Netherlands?
Studying in the Netherlands is a great choice if you want a high-quality education in a friendly, international environment. Many foreign students in the Netherlands choose to study in Holland because of its excellent universities and welcoming culture.
Tuition fees in the Netherlands
If you’re coming to study for a full degree at Zuyd, you’ll need to pay Dutch tuition fees each year. The amount depends on your nationality and the type of programme you follow.
Practical advantages of studying at Zuyd
Studying at a university of applied sciences like Zuyd means you’ll follow an education that is strongly connected to practice. Unlike research universities, which focus more on academic theory, Zuyd offers an education where you learn by doing.
You’ll collaborate with companies and institutions from your chosen field from the outset. This includes working on real-life assignments for actual clients and completing several internships during your studies to gain professional experience.
At Zuyd, you’ll benefit from small class sizes, personal support from lecturers, interactive, hands-on teaching. This study choice creates a more personalised learning experience and helps you apply your knowledge confidently in your future career.
Studying as a French student in the Netherlands
Each year, thousands of students from across Europe and beyond choose to study in the Netherlands. The busy student life, wide range of English-taught programmes, and the opportunity to build an international network are just some of the reasons French students are increasingly making this choice. And Maastricht, in particular, is a fantastic place to study.
Studying as a Bulgarian student in the Netherlands
More and more Bulgarian students are choosing to study in the Netherlands. The combination of high-quality education, an international environment and a hands-on learning approach makes the Netherlands an attractive destination. At Zuyd University of Applied Sciences, you benefit from personal guidance, small-scale teaching, and a strong focus on practical experience.
Studying as a German student in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is a popular choice among international students – and for good reason! Every year, thousands of students from across the world choose to continue their studies here, making the Netherlands one of the leading education hubs in Europe.
Studying as an Italian student in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is a popular destination for international students, thanks to its high-quality teaching, hands-on learning, and open, international study culture. It’s a great place to meet people from all over the world.
Studying as a Portuguese student in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is a popular choice among international students. In 2021, one in four students in Dutch higher professional (HBO) and academic (WO) education was from abroad – and that number is still growing. European students, including many from Portugal, are drawn to the Netherlands for its high-quality education, practical learning approach, and international atmosphere.
Studying as a Spanish student in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is a popular study destination for Spanish and other international students. In 2021, one in four university and university of applied sciences (HBO) students came from abroad – mainly from other European countries. This is thanks to the high quality of education and the international environment. Most Dutch people speak English well, making it easy to communicate and settle in.
