The Hague University of Applied Sciences (THUAS), short for De Haagse Hogeschool in Dutch, was established in 1987 through the merger of 14 smaller colleges in The Hague, some of which date back as far as the 19th century. Currently, the university has approximately 25,000 students and over 1,700 faculty and staff members, with campuses located at its main campus in The Hague, as well as in Delft and Zoetermeer.
Every program at THUAS is accredited by the Netherlands-Flanders Accreditation Organization (NVAO). In other words, its degree programs must undergo quality assessment by an external panel of experts to meet the statutory accreditation standards of Dutch higher education and obtain NVAO accreditation. Only after receiving NVAO accreditation can the institution receive government funding and issue recognized diplomas; this accreditation also serves as a key basis for recognition by the Chinese Ministry of Education. The university is currently listed on the Chinese Ministry of Education’s website for the supervision of foreign education institutions, ensuring that graduates returning to China will not encounter obstacles regarding academic credential recognition. Benefits of Completing a Dutch University Diploma
Overview of Flagship Programs
THUAS comprises five major faculties: Engineering, Economics and Management, Information Technology, Education and Sports, and Health and Behavioral Social Sciences. The university offers more than 80 undergraduate programs and 22 master’s programs, with many courses taught in English. Below are some representative programs taught in English.
| Degree Level | Program Track |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate (Taught in English) | International Business and Management, International Communication Management, International Financial Management and Control, European Studies, Law, Processing and Food Technology, Industrial Design Engineering, Public Administration, Safety and Security Management, Information Technology |
| Master’s (Taught in English) | Accounting and Financial Management, Business Administration, International Communication Management, International Law and European Policy |
Most graduates of the university’s European Studies program find employment in international organizations such as the United Nations and the European Union. In the Keuzegids 2026 rankings, the Chemical Technology program was named “Program of the Year,” while the Business Engineering and Facility Management associate degree programs received a perfect five-star rating.
Practice-Oriented Teaching Approach
As a university of applied sciences, THUAS differs from Dutch research universities, which prioritize academic research. Its primary mission is to train professionals who can enter the workforce directly. All programs include a mandatory internship component, requiring students to complete a 6- to 12-month professional internship at a multinational company during their second or third year. Additionally, the university maintains partnerships with 216 institutions worldwide, offering students numerous opportunities for study abroad.
Location and Career Advantages
Located in The Hague, the seat of the Dutch government and residence of the Dutch Royal Family, the city is also home to numerous international legal and peace institutions such as the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court. Thanks to this unique geographical advantage, THUAS students have access to internship opportunities at international organizations. Over 90% of graduates find employment within six months of graduation at companies including Shell, Unilever, Philips, ABN AMRO, and other renowned multinational corporations. The university’s Career Services Center provides comprehensive support, including resume coaching, job matching, and visa guidance.
Degree Value and Accreditation
The Hague University of Applied Sciences is a public university funded by the Dutch government. All of its programs are accredited by the Netherlands-Flanders Accreditation Organization and have been recognized by the Chinese Ministry of Education. Graduates will encounter no issues when seeking academic credential recognition upon returning to China. The degree levels awarded by the university are equivalent to those of Category U (research-oriented universities). While Category H focuses on cultivating practical skills, Category U emphasizes academic research; both are legitimate undergraduate degrees and are considered equal in status.
