Five years of Data Science & AI at BUas: how this study programme has grown into the best of the Netherlands

From pioneer to example

The study programme was launched on 1 August 2020 as a specialisation within CMGT, after which the independent Applied Data Science & AI bachelor’s programme began on 1 August 2021. BUas was the first university of applied sciences in the Netherlands that offered a fully-fledged professional bachelor’s programme in this area. The Haagse Hogeschool followed in 2021, after which Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, Apeldoorn, and Maastricht also entered the market. The first BUas cohort consisted of 14 students who dared to opt for a new, unproven degree programme. Now, 125 students enrol each year through a selection procedure and the degree programme has over 300 students. This growth reflects the explosive demand for Data Science and AI professionals in the Netherlands and beyond.

Starting to work 100% or transferring to a master’s programme

The results of the first graduates are promising. All BUas alumni have found a job immediately, often at their graduation host company or have transferred to a master’s programme. Organisations such as SAP, ASML and  the Royal Netherlands Army offer graduation internships and are then keen to take on BUas alumni. For students who wish to continue their studies, BUas has built up a strong international network over the past five years. Thanks to partnerships with aivancity in Paris, TU/e and JADS in 's-Hertogenbosch, among others, students can seamlessly transfer to a master's programme matching their ambitions.

Small-scale, intensive and future-oriented

According to the Nationwide Student Survey (NSE in Dutch) and Keuzemonitor, Applied Data Science & AI of BUas is the best AI programme in higher education of the Netherlands. The programme has the lowest dropout rate of all IT study programmes in the country and scores highest in terms of study success. According to programme manager Frank Peters, the programme's success is no coincidence: “The education is characterised by a small-scale and intensive approach, with an exit level that is higher than average in higher professional education. Thanks to modern teaching methods such as the flipped classroom and a customised approach for each student, the study programme is tailored to both individual knowledge levels and the needs of society and businesses. From day one, students work on practical projects and are trained to become data scientists and AI specialists who can make an immediate impact.”

Looking ahead

With its fifth anniversary approaching, the study programme is looking ahead to further growth and development. The foundations have been laid: a proven educational concept, a growing network of partners and alumni, and recognition as the best in the country. In the coming years, BUas will continue to invest in innovative education that prepares students for the challenges of tomorrow.