NHL Stenden Hogeschool Logo NHL Stenden Hogeschool

Address: NHL Stenden Hogeschool, Rengerslaan 10, 8917 DD Leeuwarden, The Netherlands

Phone: +31 58 212 0600

Email: info@nhlstenden.com

Website: www.nhlstenden.com


NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences has specific language requirements for its programs, especially those offered in English. The university attracts a significant number of international students, and proficiency in the English language is essential for academic success. Below are the general language requirements for admission to NHL Stenden:

1. English Language Proficiency

  • For most undergraduate and master's degree programs taught in English, the university requires students to have a strong command of the English language. This can be demonstrated through one of the following:

  • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language):

    • A minimum score of 80 (internet-based test) or 550 (paper-based test).
  • IELTS (International English Language Testing System):

    • A minimum score of 6.0 for the overall band, with no band lower than 5.5.
  • Cambridge English Qualifications:

    • C1 Advanced (formerly CAE) or C2 Proficiency: a minimum score of 169.
  • PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English):

    • A minimum score of 56.
  • Duolingo English Test:

    • A minimum score of 95.
  • Other Accepted Qualifications:

    • A high school diploma or bachelor’s degree in which the primary language of instruction was English may also be accepted, depending on the country.

2. Exemptions

  • Students who have completed their secondary education or higher education in an English-speaking country may be exempt from providing an English proficiency test score. However, this is subject to the university's discretion and the nature of the previous education.

3. Additional Requirements for Specific Programs

  • Some programs might have higher language requirements, particularly those that require extensive academic reading, writing, and research. It is always best to check the specific program’s page for any additional requirements.

4. Pre-Sessional English Course

  • If you do not meet the required English language proficiency, you may be offered the option of a pre-sessional English course. This course is designed to help students improve their English skills before starting their degree program.

NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences is a well-known institution based in the Netherlands, with campuses in several cities, including Leeuwarden, Emmen, and the international campus in Qatar and Indonesia. NHL Stenden offers a range of bachelor's and master's degree programs across various fields. Below are some of the key course specialties offered by the university:

1. International Business & Management

  • NHL Stenden is recognized for its strong International Business programs, which provide students with the skills and knowledge to succeed in global business environments. The program focuses on management, strategy, marketing, finance, and international trade.

2. Hospitality Management

  • One of the most well-known programs at NHL Stenden is International Hospitality Management, which is highly regarded worldwide. The program prepares students for careers in the hotel and tourism industries, with a focus on customer service, leadership, and business management in the hospitality sector.

3. Tourism Management

  • NHL Stenden offers specialized programs in Tourism Management, focusing on sustainable tourism, destination management, event planning, and tourism policy. The program is designed to meet the growing demand for professionals in the tourism and leisure sectors.

4. Media, Arts, and Entertainment Management

  • This program is aimed at students interested in the creative industries. It combines media, arts, and business management, preparing students for careers in media production, event management, public relations, and arts administration.

5. Marketing Management

  • The Marketing Management program focuses on key aspects of marketing, including digital marketing, consumer behavior, branding, and advertising. It is designed to equip students with the skills to work in corporate marketing or start their own marketing-related ventures.

6. Engineering & Technology

  • NHL Stenden offers various engineering programs, such as Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Information Technology. These programs focus on technical innovation, problem-solving, and real-world applications of engineering principles.

7. Creative Media Production

  • This program is designed for students interested in creative media production, focusing on the creation of digital media, including film, television, and online content. Students learn skills in video production, editing, storytelling, and media distribution.

8. Health & Social Work

  • NHL Stenden offers programs in health care management, social work, and nursing. These programs prepare students to work in the health care and social services sectors, focusing on managing care services and addressing societal challenges.

9. Business IT & Management

  • This program bridges the gap between information technology and business. Students learn about business systems, data analysis, project management, and the use of IT to improve business operations and processes.

10. Education & Pedagogy

  • NHL Stenden offers degrees in education and pedagogy, focusing on preparing students to work as teachers and educational leaders in both primary and secondary schools. The program emphasizes learning theory, curriculum development, and student-centered teaching.

11. Finance & Accounting

  • NHL Stenden offers programs in finance and accounting, focusing on areas such as corporate finance, financial management, and auditing. These programs prepare students for careers in the financial services industry, both in the Netherlands and abroad.

12. Sustainability and Environmental Studies

  • The university offers programs with a focus on sustainability, including environmental studies and sustainable business practices. The courses are designed to equip students with the skills to address global environmental challenges and work toward sustainable development.

13. Creative Business

  • This interdisciplinary program combines business and creative industries. Students learn to manage projects in the fields of art, culture, design, and media, preparing them for roles in creative business management.

NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences is home to several accomplished professors and lecturers who specialize in applied sciences, hospitality, tourism, business, and media studies. While NHL Stenden focuses primarily on practical education and applied research, some key faculty members are recognized for their expertise and contributions to their fields.

Here are notable professors at NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences:


1. Dr. Sjoerd Gehrels

  • Field: Hospitality and Service Management
  • Expertise:
    • Leadership in hospitality and tourism.
    • Sustainability in the service industry.
    • Educational innovation in hospitality management.
  • Notable Contributions:
    • Dr. Gehrels is widely recognized for his research on sustainable practices in the hospitality industry and his innovative teaching methodologies.

2. Dr. Richard Stomp

  • Field: Innovation and Future Thinking
  • Expertise:
    • Strategic innovation and creativity.
    • Developing future-proof organizations.
  • Notable Contributions:
    • A leading expert on future trends, Dr. Stomp has contributed to various projects and workshops aimed at fostering innovation in education and business sectors.

3. Prof. Dr. Ad H.M.E. Spit

  • Field: Tourism and Experience Design
  • Expertise:
    • Destination management and marketing.
    • Designing meaningful tourism experiences.
  • Notable Contributions:
    • Known for his work on improving tourism strategies in the Netherlands and abroad, Prof. Spit collaborates with international organizations to promote sustainable tourism.

4. Dr. Anne-Marie Baarsma

  • Field: Business and Innovation Management
  • Expertise:
    • Social innovation and entrepreneurship.
    • Business resilience and crisis management.
  • Notable Contributions:
    • Dr. Baarsma’s research focuses on how businesses can adapt to changing environments while maintaining their social and ethical commitments.

5. Dr. Pim Vermeulen

  • Field: Media and Communication Studies
  • Expertise:
    • Digital storytelling.
    • Media innovation and user engagement.
  • Notable Contributions:
    • An expert in the field of digital media, Dr. Vermeulen works on integrating modern storytelling techniques with traditional media practices.

6. Dr. Suzanne Kamstra

  • Field: Education Innovation and Pedagogy
  • Expertise:
    • Problem-based learning and collaborative education.
    • Curriculum design for applied sciences.
  • Notable Contributions:
    • Dr. Kamstra plays a key role in NHL Stenden’s unique Design-Based Education (DBE) approach, making learning highly interactive and practice-oriented.

7. Dr. Menno Huijbregts

  • Field: Sustainable Business Development
  • Expertise:
    • Corporate sustainability and green innovations.
    • Strategic decision-making for sustainable business growth.
  • Notable Contributions:
    • Dr. Huijbregts has published extensively on sustainability practices in the corporate sector and guides students in implementing green strategies in business projects.

NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences does not have any Nobel Prize laureates among its alumni, faculty, or associated researchers. The university focuses on applied sciences and practical education rather than pure research, which is typically the domain of institutions associated with Nobel Prizes.

NHL Stenden emphasizes industry-focused education, real-world problem-solving, and innovative teaching methods, such as its Design-Based Education (DBE) approach. While it does not have Nobel laureates, the university is recognized for its contributions to fields like hospitality management, tourism, and business innovation.

Established in 2008, the NHL Stenden Hogeschool (NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences) is a non-profit private higher  education institution located in the urban setting of the small city of Leeuwarden (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Friesland. Officially recognized by the Nederlands-Vlaamse Accreditatieorganisatie (Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders), NHL Stenden Hogeschool (NHL Stenden) is a medium-sized (uniRank enrollment range: 9,000-9,999 students) coeducational Dutch higher education institution. NHL Stenden Hogeschool (NHL Stenden) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees and master's degrees in several areas of study. See the uniRank degree levels and areas of study table below for further details. The acceptance rate range is 100% making this Dutch higher education organization a non-selective institution. International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment. NHL Stenden also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, as well as administrative services.

NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences is famous for several reasons that make it stand out in the field of higher education, especially within the Netherlands and internationally:

1. International Focus

  • NHL Stenden is known for its strong emphasis on internationalization and offering globally relevant programs. The university attracts students from all over the world, and many of its programs are taught in English, making it an attractive choice for international students. It has international campuses in Qatar and Indonesia, which further enhances its global presence.

2. Hospitality and Tourism Education

  • NHL Stenden has an excellent reputation in the fields of hospitality management and tourism management. Its International Hospitality Management program is particularly renowned and consistently ranks among the top programs in the world for preparing students for careers in the global hospitality industry. The university is known for providing hands-on learning opportunities and strong industry connections, which contribute to the success of its graduates.

3. Practical, Industry-Driven Education

  • The university is known for its focus on applied sciences, which means that its courses are designed to be directly relevant to real-world careers. NHL Stenden has a reputation for offering practical learning through internships, projects, and partnerships with companies, allowing students to gain experience and skills that are highly valued in the workforce.

4. Innovative Teaching Approach

  • NHL Stenden is famous for its problem-based learning and project-based learning approaches. These methods allow students to work on real-life cases and projects, helping them develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. This innovative approach prepares students for the challenges of the modern workplace.

5. High Employability of Graduates

  • The university’s strong focus on employability ensures that graduates are well-prepared to enter competitive job markets. Many of its alumni work in prestigious roles in sectors like hospitality, business management, tourism, and marketing. The university’s links with industry partners help students secure internships and jobs post-graduation.

6. Sustainability and Social Responsibility

  • NHL Stenden has made a commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, with many of its programs offering insights into sustainable development. The university encourages students to engage with global challenges like climate change, social inequality, and environmental conservation through research and practical initiatives.

7. Multicultural Environment

  • NHL Stenden offers a truly multicultural experience, with students from over 100 countries studying on its campuses. This diversity contributes to a global outlook in teaching and learning, which is highly valued by both students and employers in today’s interconnected world.

8. Accreditation and Recognition

  • NHL Stenden is accredited by the Dutch-Flemish Accreditation Organization (NVAO), ensuring that its programs meet high academic standards. The university’s hospitality and business programs are particularly well-regarded for their quality and international recognition.

9. Strong Industry Connections

  • NHL Stenden has established strong partnerships with businesses and industry leaders across the world, especially in the hospitality and tourism sectors. These connections provide students with valuable networking opportunities, internships, and a direct path into employment.

10. Student-Centered Learning

  • The university is known for its student-centered approach to learning, with a focus on creating an engaging and supportive environment. Smaller class sizes, personalized learning experiences, and opportunities for students to contribute to their learning paths contribute to its reputation as a great place for academic development.

11. International Recognition and Awards

  • NHL Stenden has received recognition for its academic excellence and its programs in hospitality, tourism, and international business. The university has also won numerous awards for its educational innovations and its contribution to higher education in the Netherlands.