Hogeschool van Arnhem en Nijmegen HAN
Hogeschool van Arnhem en Nijmegen (HAN) University of Applied Sciences stands as one of the Netherlands' largest and most influential institutions of professional higher education. Founded in 1996 through the merger of several regional institutions with histories extending back to the 19th century, HAN has grown into a comprehensive university of applied sciences serving over 35,000 students across its campuses in Arnhem and Nijmegen. The institution's founding mission centers on preparing students for successful careers through practice-oriented education that bridges theoretical knowledge with real-world application. HAN's reputation rests on its strong connections with regional and national industries, healthcare organizations, and educational institutions. The university has earned recognition for its innovative approach to education, consistently ranking among the top universities of applied sciences in the Netherlands for student satisfaction and graduate employability. The institution's commitment to applied research enables faculty and students to address practical challenges facing businesses, healthcare providers, and communities throughout the region. The university operates according to the principle that education should be relevant, challenging, and directly connected to professional practice. This philosophy manifests in extensive internship programs, project-based learning, and close collaboration with over 3,000 partner organizations. HAN's focus on the Arnhem-Nijmegen metropolitan region positions it as a key driver of economic development and social innovation. International accreditations and partnerships demonstrate HAN's commitment to maintaining global quality standards while serving its local and national communities.
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
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- Avg GPA
- 3.25
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Student Life & Environment
Student life at HAN reflects the sociable culture of Dutch higher education, with student associations, sports clubs, and social activities creating opportunities for connection. The student associations at each campus organize introduction weeks, parties, and events throughout the year. Sports facilities include fitness centers, playing fields, and courts where students participate in recreational and competitive activities. Housing can be challenging to find in both cities, though the university provides assistance and student housing organizations maintain apartment buildings for students. Many students live in shared houses or apartments, continuing the Dutch tradition of student housing communities. The cities offer different vibes: Arnhem has developed a creative and design scene with festivals and cultural events, while Nijmegen maintains a traditional student city atmosphere with pubs and cafes concentrated in the center. Cycling is the primary transportation mode, with bike infrastructure making it easy to get around. Student budgets stretch reasonably far in both cities compared to Amsterdam or other western Netherlands locations. International students find communities through dedicated programs and organizations that help with social integration. The border location means some students take advantage of German cities like Dusseldorf for shopping or nightlife.
Location & Surroundings
Arnhem and Nijmegen sit in the Gelderland province of the eastern Netherlands, surrounded by rivers, forests, and parks that provide natural beauty unusual for this densely populated country. Arnhem serves as the provincial capital and has reinvented itself as a center for creative industries and fashion, while maintaining historic architecture and green spaces including a large outdoor museum. Nijmegen, often called the oldest city in the Netherlands, has a Roman history dating back nearly 2,000 years and a lively center dominated by its university and student population. The Veluwe national park lies just north of Arnhem, offering hiking, cycling, and wildlife observation in forested landscapes. Both cities benefit from good rail connections to Amsterdam, Utrecht, and cities across the Netherlands. The German border lies just kilometers to the east, with Dusseldorf reachable in about an hour. Climate brings mild, rainy conditions typical of the Netherlands, with cool winters and pleasant summers. The rivers Waal and Rhine flow through the region, creating scenic landscapes and recreational opportunities. Cost of living in this region remains lower than in the Randstad (Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague area), making student budgets more manageable. The region's economy includes logistics, healthcare, education, and a growing technology sector.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Tuition at HAN follows Dutch national rates, with EU/EEA students paying the statutory fee of approximately 2,500 euros per year while non-EU students pay institutional rates around 8,000-10,000 euros depending on the program. Living costs in Arnhem and Nijmegen run approximately 900-1,200 euros monthly for housing, food, insurance, and other expenses. Scholarship opportunities exist for international students, including government programs and institutional awards. Part-time work is permitted for international students up to certain hour limits. Graduates enter a strong job market, with HAN's practical education model producing alumni who are ready to contribute immediately. The career services connect students with employers through job fairs, networking events, and company visits. Engineering graduates find opportunities with manufacturing, automotive, and technology companies throughout the Netherlands and Germany. Healthcare and social work graduates enter regulated professions with defined career paths. Business graduates work in international companies that value the practical experience gained through internships. The university's regional connections mean many employers actively recruit HAN students and alumni. Graduate starting salaries reflect the Dutch market, with variations depending on field and employer. Some international students remain in the Netherlands after graduation, taking advantage of the year-long orientation visa for job searching.
Campus Location
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