If you think of Dutch universities, you probably think of massive campuses, packed lecture theatres and the endless debates about the use of English. But not all the country’s educational establishments are like this. University colleges are on the up and now Nyenrode Business Universiteit has launched a new bachelor’s degree in business administration.

There can be few places more inspirational to study in the Netherlands than the Nyenrode campus, set in the grounds of a 17th century castle just a few minutes drive from Utrecht. And Nyenrode’s focused programmes, small classes and truly international approach has proved a hit since the university was launched in 1946.

For after focusing on top-rated master’s degrees in a wide range of business-related subjects, Nyenrode has now launched its first bachelor’s degree course – a three year programme dedicated to developing the best in business administration skills.

The course started in August with 32 students from all over the world. It is a testing programme which seeks to develop a number of important skills in students – from conceptual and analytical thinking to problem-solving and research and writing skills.

Bonding

‘Since the moment I arrived at Nyenrode, I have been living life in the fast lane,’ says student Lucas van Beek. ‘The introduction period was tough, but to feel the bonding between the new students is something special.

Traditionally, the intensive campus life and active student association at Nyenrode have always played an important role, says programme director Mark Slaman.

Being a campus, Nyenrode soon becomes home and sport has a prominent place in the new programme too. ‘It enables students to improve their discipline, resilience, sportsmanship and perseverance. This will help us to develop individuals who are just and have strong character,’ Slaman says.

International

But key to Nyenrode’s success – and the university is highly rated in numerous international rankings – it its truly global focus. ‘Given the very international nature of business today, it is vital for the cross-cultural component to form an explicit part of the new BSc programme as well,’ Slaman says.  ‘This why we take our search for students abroad and inspire them to choose Nyenrode.’

The selection process for the course is in itself unusual, given that Nyenrode alumni have a role in deciding who should be admitted. After all, says Slaman, ‘who better to assess if someone is Nyenrode material or not, than our alumni’.

Gayle van Beeten, who now lives in Vilnius, Lithuania, says she did not hesitate when asked to help select students. ‘The Dutch ambassador in Vilnius kindly let us use their formal meeting room,’ she says. ‘I think Igor, the potential student, had one of the poshest locations for a Nyenrode interview yet.’

‘I thought it was really great to meet potential new Nyenrode talent. After all we are ambassadors for Nyenrode all around the world. We can make potential students enthusiastic, and give them some useful tips from our own experience along the way.’

Challenges

The challenges of today’s business world call for a new type of leaders with the vision and the courage to play a leading role in shaping tomorrow’s business world. Nyenrode, says Slaman, prepares students for this reality by combining academic theory with practical relevance and personal development.

‘But they will also learn a lot from each other and especially from the students who share insights about their cross-cultural background.’

If you’d like to find out more about Nyenrode’s BSc in Business Administration, why not visit the campus and see for yourself on one of the upcoming open days.