Bachelor degrees in the Netherlands
Explore Dutch Bachelor’s Programmes
Are you considering studying in the Netherlands as an international student? A bachelor’s programme at a university of applied sciences could be a great choice. Dutch institutions like Zuyd University of Applied Sciences are known for their hands-on approach to education, international atmosphere, and personal guidance. You’ll study alongside students from all over the world and learn from day one how to apply your knowledge in real-life situations. But what Maastricht bachelor programmes are available? What can you do with a degree? And how do you know which programme is right for you? We’ll explain it all here.
What is a bachelor’s degree?
A bachelor’s degree in the Netherlands is typically a four-year programme at a university of applied sciences (HBO). You’ll start with a broad foundation in the first two years, followed by increasing freedom to choose subjects aligned with your interests and ambitions.
HBO programmes are practice-oriented, meaning you won’t just learn theory – you’ll apply it straight away. You’ll work on real projects, complete internships with companies, and gain practical experience for your future profession.
After completing a bachelor’s programme, you’ll receive an internationally recognised degree and earn the title Bachelor of ..., such as Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BSc), depending on your field. You can either start working straight away or continue studying by enrolling in a master’s programme.
Many bachelor degrees in the Netherlands are available in English, making them an ideal option for international students.
Our English-taught bachelor’s programmes
Music
Do you dream of an (international) music career? At Conservatorium Maastricht, you will develop your passion for music and prepare yourself for a successful future in the music world. In the Bachelor of Music, you choose either Classical or Jazz, both of which are English-taught. You will study in a vibrant international environment, among students and teachers from all over the world. Conservatorium Maastricht is firmly established in the region and offers a dynamic and inspiring atmosphere that is not only reflected in our classes, but also during concerts and projects.
You will be taught by active professionals who support you in developing your own artistic identity. Through hands-on experience on a variety of stages, you’ll be thoroughly prepared for a career in the music industry. The broad and multifaceted curriculum offers room for your own creative projects and input, helping you grow into a versatile musician with a distinctive artistic voice.
Interdisciplinary Arts
At iArts, you combine art, science, and entrepreneurship to devise creative solutions for social issues.
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.
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.
Hotel Management
Hotel Management School Maastricht trains future hospitality leaders with a focus on entrepreneurship, gastronomy, global mindset and practical experience.
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.
Studying in the Netherlands as an international student
Thinking of enrolling in a bachelor’s programme in the Netherlands? You’ll find a wide range of English-taught programmes to choose from, so you don’t need to speak Dutch to get started. However, learning some Dutch is useful for daily life and internships.
You’ll need a secondary school diploma equivalent to the Dutch HAVO, VWO or MBO-4 level. If you’re applying for an English-taught bachelor in the Netherlands, you may also need to provide a language test certificate such as IELTS or TOEFL.
From outside the EU? Then you’ll likely need to apply earlier and may pay higher tuition fees than EU students. Check the details on the relevant programme page.
Study facilities
As a student at Zuyd, you’ll benefit from a range of modern facilities designed to support your learning. During your Maastricht bachelor, you’ll find extensive libraries across six locations where you can find everything you need for your studies. You will have access to a digital learning and working environment. Pretty relaxed, right?
Facilities for printing, copying, and scanning and access to laptops, beamers, and video cameras can easily be arranged. Our locations have various study facilities. During breaks, you can visit our in-house restaurant with fresh food and drinks. In between study sessions, you can wind down with friends in the relaxation areas. Our campuses are easily accessible by public transport, bicycle and car.
Are you a top-level athlete or a student with a disability? We offer tailored support to help you complete your bachelor degree in the Netherlands successfully.
Difference between a bachelor’s at a university of applied sciences (HBO) and a university (WO)
The Dutch system offers two types of bachelor’s programmes: HBO (University of Applied Sciences) and WO (Research University). An HBO bachelor is practice-oriented and prepares you for a specific profession. You learn mainly by doing, with internships, group projects and practical tasks. A WO bachelor is academic and more theoretical in nature. You will learn mainly by independent study, research and analysing complex theories. If you choose a programme at Zuyd University of Applied Sciences, you’ll be enrolled in an HBO bachelor.
HBO vs. WO Bachelor’s Degree
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4-Year vs. 3-Year Structure
An HBO bachelor’s takes four years and offers more time to develop practical and professional skills, while a WO bachelor’s is completed in three years and focuses on academic depth in a shorter timeframe.
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Practical vs. Academic Learning
HBO programmes blend theory with hands-on practice from day one, whereas WO programmes emphasise academic thinking and research with a strong theoretical approach.
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Broad vs. In-Depth Subjects
HBO students explore a broad range of subjects to build versatile skills, while WO programmes dive deeper into fewer subjects for strong analytical and theoretical expertise.
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Collaborative vs. Independent Learning
HBO education often involves teamwork and real-life assignments, whereas WO students mainly study independently and conduct academic research.
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Small Classes vs. Large Lectures
HBO programmes offer small, classroom-based learning with personal guidance, while WO programmes typically take place in large lecture halls with more self-directed study.
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Steady vs. Intensive Learning Pace
HBO spreads learning moments throughout the programme for steady progress, while WO follows a faster academic pace with intensive learning blocks.
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Different Entry Requirements
HBO is accessible with HAVO, VWO, or MBO-4 diplomas, whereas WO requires VWO or completed preparatory or higher education pathways.
Can’t decide? We’re here to help
Choosing the right bachelor's programme in the Netherlands can feel overwhelming. There are so many options and it’s normal to feel unsure. This can cause choice anxiety. Here’s how we can support you:
A first step might be to take a study test. This will help you discover which programmes match your interests and skills. Still not sure? You could speak to a study advisor. This adviser will look at the options with you and help you make a good choice. Do you already have a study programme in mind? If so, feel free to attend a trial study day or shadow a student to experience the programme first-hand. Trial days give you a realistic picture of a typical study day. You’ll attend lectures, practicals, and meet teachers and students.
Guidance and support at university of applied sciences
At our Dutch university of applied sciences, you’ll learn from a variety of lecturers – each teaching a different subject. But you’ll always have one dedicated point of contact: your student supervisor. They’ll help guide your academic decisions and are your first port of call for questions. Your student supervisor supports you in the choices you make within your studies and knows where to turn with your other questions. A student supervisor is also called mentor or coach.
Moving to the Netherlands for your bachelor degree can be a big step. Your supervisor is there to help you settle in and adjust to Dutch education and life. Most learning is done in small groups, so you’ll get to know your classmates quickly and easily.
HBO Bachelor: what can you do after earning your degree?
Congratulations, you’ve earned your degree! With a Dutch bachelor's degree, a whole new world of opportunities opens up for you! With your combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, you’re well prepared to enter the job market. Employers value HBO graduates for their hands-on skills and professional readiness. Perfect! Compared to university (WO) graduates, you may even have an edge due to your extensive work experience gained during internships.
Prefer to continue your studies? You can progress to a master’s programme, either at a university of applied sciences or a research university. To enter a research university master, you may need to complete a pre-master programme. This will prepare you for a university master's degree in six months to one year. Some Zuyd programmes have agreements with Maastricht University, making the transition seamless.
Thinking internationally? Take your degree with you
A Dutch bachelor’s degree can take you around the world. Whether your qualification is recognised abroad depends on the specific programme and country. Most Dutch degrees – especially English-taught programmes – are internationally recognised. Sometimes you may need your diploma assessed or supply additional documents, for example for admission to a foreign master's programme or for a job.
During your studies, you can already gain international experience. For example, many bachelor programmes in the Netherlands allow you to take an internship or minor abroad. You will not only build your professional knowledge, but also your international network, language skills and cultural skills.
For international students already studying in the Netherlands, an internship abroad can equally be a valuable addition. You will learn to work in a new context, increase your chances in the international labour market and show that you are flexible and independent.
Before that happens, we would like to welcome you to Zuyd! This is where your international adventure starts.
Guidance and support at university of applied sciences
Guidance and support at university of applied sciences
At our Dutch university of applied sciences, you’ll learn from a variety of lecturers – each teaching a different subject. But you’ll always have one dedicated point of contact: your student supervisor. They’ll help guide your academic decisions and are your first port of call for questions. Your student supervisor supports you in the choices you make within your studies and knows where to turn with your other questions. A student supervisor is also called mentor or coach.
Moving to the Netherlands for your bachelor degree can be a big step. Your supervisor is there to help you settle in and adjust to Dutch education and life. Most learning is done in small groups, so you’ll get to know your classmates quickly and easily.
HBO Bachelor: what can you do after earning your degree?
HBO Bachelor: what can you do after earning your degree?
Congratulations, you’ve earned your degree! With a Dutch bachelor's degree, a whole new world of opportunities opens up for you! With your combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, you’re well prepared to enter the job market. Employers value HBO graduates for their hands-on skills and professional readiness. Perfect! Compared to university (WO) graduates, you may even have an edge due to your extensive work experience gained during internships.
Prefer to continue your studies? You can progress to a master’s programme, either at a university of applied sciences or a research university. To enter a research university master, you may need to complete a pre-master programme. This will prepare you for a university master's degree in six months to one year. Some Zuyd programmes have agreements with Maastricht University, making the transition seamless.
Thinking internationally? Take your degree with you
Thinking internationally? Take your degree with you
A Dutch bachelor’s degree can take you around the world. Whether your qualification is recognised abroad depends on the specific programme and country. Most Dutch degrees – especially English-taught programmes – are internationally recognised. Sometimes you may need your diploma assessed or supply additional documents, for example for admission to a foreign master's programme or for a job.
During your studies, you can already gain international experience. For example, many bachelor programmes in the Netherlands allow you to take an internship or minor abroad. You will not only build your professional knowledge, but also your international network, language skills and cultural skills.
For international students already studying in the Netherlands, an internship abroad can equally be a valuable addition. You will learn to work in a new context, increase your chances in the international labour market and show that you are flexible and independent.
Before that happens, we would like to welcome you to Zuyd! This is where your international adventure starts.
Frequently asked questions about bachelor programmes
Is a university of applied sciences bachelor’s degree difficult?
It depends on your motivation and interests! If you enjoy your programme and stay committed, you’ll manage. You’ll always have access to support from your teachers and student supervisor. If a four-year undergraduate degree in the Netherlands feels like too much, consider a two-year associate degree.
Is an HBO Bachelor the same as a university (WO) Bachelor?
No. HBO is practice-based and takes 4 years. WO is academically focused and takes 3 years. They also differ in entry requirements.
How long does a bachelor at university of applied sciences take?
A full-time bachelor's degree in the Netherlands takes 4 years. Most students graduate then. Some students take a bit longer due to retakes, personal circumstances or part-time study, such as top-level sport, informal care or a chronic illness.
What is the difference between a bachelor’s degree and an associate degree?
An associate degree (AD) lasts 2 years and is positioned between MBO-4 and HBO in level.
What title will I receive after graduation?
This depends on your programme. You’ll receive a degree such as Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (Bsc) – internationally recognised and professionally valuable.
What level is an HBO bachelor’s degree in the Netherlands?
In terms of level, this programme lies between an associate degree and a WO Bachelor’s.