Enquire to study in the UK 
Going to university doesn’t have to be all textbooks and lectures; choosing wisely could mean thriving in an environment where students from diverse backgrounds come together, share experiences, and collectively contribute to a rich learning journey. At Avans University of Applied Sciences, this sense of community is no mere add-on; it’s a key aspect that defines the Dutch higher education institution.
Warmth and camaraderie are fuelled by the Avans International Community (AIC), which was established in 2021. “Research showed that international students and staff did feel welcome at Avans, but they didn’t always feel at home”, explains project lead Joost van Hilst.
The AIC combatted this head-on with the recent opening of OpenX — a physical home base in Breda that dedicates its entire second floor to Avans’ global community. “There is a room to meet each other, informally on a sofa or in the caravan,” says van Hilst. “In the open educational space, students and staff meet, project-based education takes place and activities are held – for example, Dutch language courses for internationals, extracurricular activities, guest speakers, kick-offs. And there is a room where students can find the Student Support team.”
Encouraging interaction is one of the many ways the university hopes to shift from traditional “internationalisation” to a more encompassing concept of “global engagement.” The dual objectives of this concept involve training students to contribute to significant transitions on a global scale and recognising the importance of geopolitical relations and climate impact at the local level.
“So on the one hand we want to open doors and windows to the outside world, and on the other hand we want to bring the outside in more”, says acting president of the Executive Board, Jacomine van Ravensbergen. To facilitate international collaboration, enhance mobility, and share knowledge and research, Avans joined PIONEER, a European partnership comprising research universities and universities of applied sciences. Participation is already yielding benefits, such as collaborative opportunities with partner institutions like TH Köln.
It’s clear Avans views global engagement, diversity, inclusion, and sustainability as interconnected themes rather than standalone initiatives. “It is our ambition to improve education and research for all Avans students, faculty and staff by becoming a more inclusive and consciously diverse organisation that makes more use of – and improves – the international resources it has,” shares van Hilst. “And in doing so, we hope to better prepare all Avans students for a globalised world and workplace.”
Such efforts show, yet again, Avans’ commitment to excellence. Hence why for the last 11 years, it has consistently outshone other universities, securing the top spot in the Netherlands from 2013 to 2023.
Paula Velasquez Suarez from Curacao, intrigued by this reputation, joined the Environmental Science for Sustainability, Ecosystems and Technology (ESSET) programme. She loved it from the start. With approximately a year left in her programme, her journey thus far has been nothing short of enriching. “The academic environment is pleasant, teaches us to become better, and helps us to develop ourselves not only academically but also work-wise and personally,” she shares.
OpenX, a wing of the Avans building on Hogeschoollaan, Breda, is over 5000 square metres in size. Source: Avans University of Applied Sciences
What Suarez loves most about her curriculum is how aligned it is with industry needs. Indeed, programmes here were designed to bridge the gap between academia and the professional world, providing students with real-world insights and experiences. Industry professionals actively contribute to the programmes, ensuring graduates are well-prepared and equipped with practical skills sought after in the job market.
Avans offers many opportunities for students to become career-ready. Teachers are always available to give extra guidance. External partners often engage with students too. “Avans even organises career events and our teachers give a lot of support if you ask for it,” she says.
Several international undergraduate programmes unlock both personalised attention and practical elements. In fact, all programmes include a mandatory one-year internship that paves the way for many career opportunities.
The ESSET programme focuses on nurturing environmental professionals capable of merging the disciplines of biology, chemistry, management and technology to preserve our planet. The Finance & Control (international) programme is a better choice for those keen on helping companies improve their financial health, create profit, make investment decisions, apply risk management, and present business or export plans.
Meanwhile, the International Business programmes instil broad knowledge of international management, marketing, organisations, supply chain, finance and sustainability. The curriculum was designed to produce professionals who thrive in cross-cultural business settings and excel in driving sustainable, international growth.
Whichever programme students choose, they get the chance to chart it as you see fit to your interests and ambitions. After their first one and a half years studying the programme, they can curate 25% of what’s left in their coursework. Their assigned coach is available to help them decide which modules best suit your needs and aspirations.
All three programmes begin in the vibrant, yet safe cities of Breda or ‘s-Hertogenbosch (one of the two International Business programme) in the Netherlands, where every corner is teeming with cultural activities, sports events, and music festivals. Nestled within the Brainport region, Avans’s location is a front-row seat to the most innovative technology hub in Europe. And in this breeding ground for innovation, students can observe and even become active participants in a community that propels them towards a future of limitless possibilities — just as Avans taught them to be. To join them, click here to learn more about applications.
Follow Avans University of Applied Sciences on Facebook, YouTube and Instagram
