Studying in Zeeland

Students who have completed secondary education can continue their studies in three types of post-secondary education:

• Intermediate vocational education (MBO)
• Technical and vocational training (HBO)
• University education (WO)

MBO courses provide training for specific occupations; HBO focuses on applied knowledge and skills and is provided by universities of applied sciences (hogescholen), and university education is academic and research-focused. All three prepare students for a variety of careers and further study, depending on their interests and previous education.

Scalda and Hoornbeeck College

Zeeland has two providers of MBO courses: Scalda and Hoornbeeck College. With a strong demand for qualified professionals, Zeeland’s businesses have plenty of job opportunities for MBO graduates. Both institutes offer a range of courses in hospitality and catering, tourism, healthcare, animal care, technology and nautical and maritime studies.

HZ University of Applied Sciences

Vlissingen and Middelburg are home to HZ University of Applied Sciences, the leading provider of applied higher education in Zeeland. HZ offers a range of exchange programmes and English-taught programmes, including Water Management, Global Project and Change Management and Civil Engineering Check out all of Zeeland’s English-taught programmes and why the province is the perfect place to pursue a water-related study programme.

HZ has a large international student community and is known for its personal approach, providing plenty of support for its students. HZ also provides guaranteed housing for students who book accommodation in time. Check out HZ International’s Instagram account and the HZ welcome page to hear from students and alumni about their experiences of studying in Zeeland.

University College Roosevelt

Based in the historic town centre of Middelburg, University College Roosevelt (UCR) offers university-level courses taught completely in English. The college attracts students from around the world who join an international yet close-knit community. Graduates are awarded a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) upon completion of their course and regularly go on study at world-leading universities such as Cambridge and Harvard. UCR’s website has detailed information about student life in Zeeland as well as testimonials from Dutch and international students.

JRCZ

Middelburg is also home to the Joint Research Center Zeeland (JCRZ). This unique research institute links HZ, UCR and Scalda to businesses and public authorities, enabling them to collaborate on real-world issues that are affecting Zeeland now or may do so in the future. English is the working language in many projects. The JCRZ also has six different laboratories that collaborators are free to use. For more information, see the JRCZ’s website.

Zeeland is an ideal place for students who love nature, the sea and the great outdoors. But despite its closeness to nature, it’s just a short drive or train journey to larger cities in the Netherlands and Belgium – perfect for a day out. Students in Zeeland usually find it easy to find a part-time job while studying or a full-time job after graduating, particularly in the technical industry. The region not only offers a great place to study but also exciting career opportunities, being home to a range of international companies such as DOW Terneuzen and Damen Naval Schelde Shipbuilding, The Zeeland International Center’s website has more practical information about studying in Zeeland. The Center also provides support for those studying or looking to study in Zeeland.