Breederode University of Applied Sciences (Breederode Hogeschool), located in Rotterdam—the Netherlands’ second-largest city—was established in 2014 as a specialized institution of higher education focused on the health and welfare sector. The university aims to train high-quality healthcare and social work professionals and enjoys a strong reputation within the industry both in the Netherlands and throughout the Caribbean region. To cultivate high-quality healthcare Breederode Hogeschool Diploma
Flagship Programs: Master’s in Pediatric Physical Therapy and Bachelor’s in Social Work
Breederode University of Applied Sciences offers many unique programs in the health and welfare sector, the most renowned of which is the Master’s in Pediatric Physical Therapy (Master Kinderfysiotherapie). This program awards a Master of Science (MSc) degree, requires the completion of 90 ECTS credits, and is accredited by the Netherlands-Flanders Accreditation Organization (NVAO). It is one of the few officially recognized professional master’s programs in the Netherlands. Additionally, the university offers a HBO Bachelor’s degree in Health Care and Welfare, which focuses on training social workers and social care professionals with practical skills. The program emphasizes the integration of theory and practice, preparing graduates to work in primary care facilities, social work agencies, and similar settings.
The university offers numerous short-term training courses and professional development programs for working professionals. For example, specialized courses such as the Diabetes Care Intensive Course and the Cardiovascular Disease Care Intensive Course are designed for primary care assistants, integrating theory with practical application to help students master essential skills early on. Additionally, there is a one-year specialized advanced training program specifically for research nurses, providing clinical trial coordinators with opportunities for continuing education.
Overseas Training Programs and International Focus
Breda University of Applied Sciences also possesses distinct strengths in internationalization. It maintains close ties with WGK College in the Caribbean, providing certification training for healthcare professionals there and offering courses to enhance nursing skills. According to the 2019 cooperation plan, the university aims to train 100 regional nurses on Curaçao in critical nursing skills such as wound care, injection techniques, and intravenous therapy. This significantly contributes to the modernization of the local healthcare system, This project demonstrates the university’s ability to export the high-quality outcomes of Dutch education to the international market.
Tuition and Application Requirements
Tuition at Brederdorpe University of Applied Sciences, a Dutch institution of higher professional education, is governed by Dutch law. According to Dutch higher education policy, starting from the 2026–2027 academic year, the annual tuition fee for full-time students at Dutch universities will be €2,694; specific tuition amounts are subject to the university’s official announcement.
Regarding applications, as the majority of courses are taught in Dutch, international students are advised to have a good command of the language (typically B2 level or higher). Applicants must submit documents such as academic credentials, transcripts, and language proficiency certificates. Requirements vary by program, so it is recommended to check the university’s official website in advance for the latest admission information.
Rotterdam Campus and Career Prospects
The university is located in Rotterdam, a renowned European port city and the economic and cultural hub of the Netherlands. The city boasts a mature business environment, a diverse international population, and a robust job market, offering students numerous opportunities for internships and employment. The university has consistently upheld the philosophy of “Better in Care”. Course content is led by over twenty industry professionals, and students receive biweekly guidance from frontline practitioners, ensuring that the knowledge they acquire keeps pace with industry developments. Graduates possess a strong competitive edge in fields such as primary healthcare, community care, and pediatric rehabilitation.
