International Facility Management
Come and meet us
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You design the workplace
From flexible offices to smart buildings: you make it happen.
No event without a facility manager
From concerts to conferences: behind every successful event there is a facility manager.
You’re the project leader
You’re in charge of everything: budget, planning and the team, all at the same time.
Building a sustainable tomorrow
How do you make a building more sustainable? You’ll soon know how.
Here’s how to make an impact!
From initial analysis to practical advice for real organisations.
Placement abroad
A placement in Dublin, Sydney or Barcelona? You get to choose your international adventure.
Study overview
The programme consists of four years. Each year consists of four blocks of nine to ten weeks each. More information about the programme and the courses can be found in the complete programme overview. Below, we will explain what you can expect in the first year.
In the first year – the propaedeutic phase – you will complete four blocks. Based on a project/assignment from the professional field, you will start acquiring the right knowledge and developing your professional skills. Each block consists of a number of courses. Each block covers a number of topics that highlight the various aspects of the facilities industry.
During your first week, you will visit a company with your class and immediately get a glimpse behind the scenes of the facility management industry.
- Block A - Fundamentals of Facility Management
Who actually makes sure that a music venue, hospital, stadium or airport simply works? That the lighting functions, the catering is ready, and the spaces are safe? That's facility management, and in this block you'll discover what that field is all about.
Together with your group, you choose a sector, from healthcare and logistics to retail or government, and dive into it for the whole block. Each week focuses on a different theme: spaces, processes, services, people and technology. What you learn, you consistently translate into small creative products – a poster, a video or a mind map. At the end, you will present your findings and show how sustainability and AI are changing your chosen sector.
- Block B – Service Excellence
Are you ready to show off your creativity? Design a unique concept for a company (e.g. a coffee corner) and discover the secrets behind successful concepts. Work in teams to gather insights, describe key concepts, and discover how different areas of knowledge are connected. Why does one idea work and another not? This is your chance to shine!
- Block C – Organisational Dynamics
Imagine walking through an airport, a hospital or a large office. Why does one space feel pleasant and another doesn't? In this block, you'll find out exactly why. You'll explore the people who use a building: visitors, staff, patients. What do they need? What's missing? You'll use research methods to find out, not based on gut feeling, but on data.
Then you’ll get to work. You choose a concrete issue, gather information and come up with workplace concepts that really work in practice. Think smarter walking routes, better workspace layouts or measures that improve safety. At the end, you present’ll solutions that improve the experience, well-being and safety of the people in a building. Creative thinking is encouraged, but you'll need to keep both feet firmly on the ground.
- Block D – Buildings & Spaces
A building is never just a building. The way a space is designed, laid out and managed determines how people work, learn and come together. In this block, you will learn to view buildings through the eyes of a facilities professional.
You’ll work on a project and develop a proposal for the redesign of a workplace, supported by figures and visuals. You’ll use digital tools such as Excel, Power BI and AI. Company visits will connect what you learn in class to everyday practice.
- Years 2 and 3
Years 2 and 3 merge into each other. During this period, you will take 6 modules and complete a six-month internship abroad.
Block – Operational Efficiency
How do you ensure an organisation runs smoothly? In this block, you’ll delve into the processes that keep facility management running: from contract management and procurement to tendering and service delivery. You’ll not only learn what these processes are, but also how to analyse, improve and make them more sustainable.At the same time, you’ll develop your role as a professional. You’ll practise taking on different roles – specialist, adviser, manager or change agent – and learn how to collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams. The block concludes with an individual role-play and a group recommendation for a real client.
Block – Business Resilience
How can you make a building smarter and more sustainable? In this block, you’ll analyse a fictional shopping centre and identify areas for improvement in terms of technology, data and sustainability.You’ll work with your group as consultants. You’ll gather data on the shopping centre, compile it into a clear digital dashboard and write a consultancy report with specific proposals for improvement. You’ll use AI as a tool, but you’ll also consider when you should and shouldn’t rely on it. You’ll discuss the latter individually with a panel of assessors, who’ll ask you questions about your choices and your reasoning.
Block – Integrated Services
Why do people actually return to the office? And as a facility manager, how do you ensure the workplace is so appealing that employees choose to come in of their own accord? That is the central question of this module.Working in a group for a real-world client, you investigate how the workplace can better align with employee needs. You conduct interviews, analyse FM services, and ultimately produce a concrete advisory report. Finally, you simulate a stakeholder meeting—taking on roles ranging from FM consultant to HR manager or employee representative—and defend your position.
Block – Integrated Spaces
Imagine a company facing a space-related challenge: workstations are underutilised, the layout is no longer fit for purpose, and there is a lack of clear oversight. You and your team are hired as junior FM consultants to resolve this.You develop a detailed plan for transitioning to a new workplace layout and configure a digital FM system that enables the company to manage its building professionally moving forward. You make decisions regarding space allocation, service outsourcing, and data organisation—and you must be able to justify these choices. At the end of the module, you provide a live demonstration of the system and present your approach to a panel.
Year 3
Block – Design in Facility Management
How do you design a workplace that really works for the people who use it? In this block, you’ll tackle a specific challenge set by a real client. You choose your own focus: think of an inclusive workplace for neurodiversity, hybrid working, circular office design or well-being at work.You’ll work with a fellow student and go through the entire design process: from user research and generating ideas to a detailed prototype with a financial and operational implementation plan. You’ll incorporate AI as part of your design process or prototype, and reflect on how to do so responsibly. Halfway through, you’ll give an individual presentation on your in-depth literature review. At the end, you’ll jointly submit a design portfolio, which will be assessed partly on the basis of feedback from your client.
Block – Innovation Leadership
Imagine: a facility management company or department asks you for strategic advice. What should this company or department do to align well with the future needs of your business clients? In this block, you will work with a small group of fellow students to address precisely that question.You'll delve into strategic management and change management, translating this into a concrete leadership manifesto for the board. There's also room to reflect on what ethically responsible leadership means to you as an individual. You’ll then develop your strongest recommendations into an investment plan, including financial justification, before you present your advice to the client in person.
- Year 4
In your graduation year (year 4), you will work on your thesis and you can do another study component of your choice, such as an exchange, a minor, a pre-master’s, an additional placement, or writing a consultancy report or business plan. For your thesis as well as the optional part, you will obviously choose a topic (or context) that suits you perfectly! You will be supported in this process by a study coach, who will guide you through to your thesis defence.
- Placement
For 24 weeks you will experience living and working in a real-life, cross-cultural facility environment abroad. You work approximately 40 hours per week. During your placement, you may receive a visit from your supervising lecturer, to make sure that you are doing well, that your placement company is taking good care of you, and of course, to discuss your professional and personal development.
During your work placement, your supervising lecturer may visit you to check that you are doing well, that your host organisation is looking after you properly and, of course, to discuss your professional and personal development. We offer work placements in the following regions, among others: countries within Europe, Australia (Sydney), Aruba, Bonaire and Sint Maarten. Please bear in mind that these destinations may change due to unforeseen circumstances.
- Exchange
Studying abroad is the perfect opportunity to push your boundaries. You build up an international network, learn a new language, and gain insight into intercultural differences. BUas works with universities all over the world, so as an exchange student you have plenty of options. Some examples are:
- Helsinki, Finland
- Flagstaff, United States
- Kufstein, Austria
- Hong Kong Polytechnic University, China
- Budapest Business School, Hungary
- Minor
With a minor, you choose for yourself: do you want to specialise in your field or broaden your knowledge? You can take a minor at BUas, but you can also choose to do a minor at another Dutch university of applied sciences, or even abroad.
- Pre-master
In your final year of study, you may choose to attend the academic pre-master's track in Strategic Business Management and Marketing (SBM). This pre-master will give you direct access to Master of Science programmes at top universities such as Maastricht, Rotterdam, Tilburg, Antwerp (B), and Warwick (UK). You can also move on to our university master's degree in Leisure and Tourism Studies. This way, you can earn a university master's degree in just five years – or even in four years, through the accelerated (three-year) track.
This programme uses a wide variety of teaching methods. You’ll attend lectures, workshops, practical sessions at our training company Sibelicious, and undertake plenty of group assignments. You’ll be assessed throughout each block, give final presentations and also submit portfolios. The Facility Management programme is characterised by small-scale teaching, which means you’ll build a strong rapport with your lecturers and also have several one-to-one meetings with your coach.
No boring lectures where you just take notes. At FM, you tackle real assignments from real companies. With small class sizes, you know your lecturers by their first names and receive personalised guidance. You’re not just a number in a large lecture theatre.
This programme trains you to become an all-round facility manager. First, you’ll focus on your personal development. Together with your fellow students, you’ll work not only on acquiring knowledge but also on developing your skills. We help you learn the things you need to know and be able to do, and we offer you practical, on-the-job training. It’s all about the mix of qualities, attitude and skills you need as a professional. This programme gives you everything you need to find the international job of your dreams!
Study load
On average, you will spend 35 hours per week on your studies. You will attend lectures and work on projects, and prepare for examinations and assessments. Classes take place between 9.00 and 17.00 hrs. During practical weeks, you will work full-time in the kitchen, restaurant or at the Visitor Centre on campus. Class hours are then between 8.00 and 22.00 hrs.
- A typical week
Curious what a week really looks like? No two weeks are the same, but this gives you a good idea.
Monday:
- 9:00-11:00 Lecture: what does a facility manager actually do all day?
- 11:00-13:00 Workshop: who all has a stake in your building, and what do they want?
- 13:00-13:30 Lunch
- 13:30-15:30 Getting started with your project: mapping out your building
Tuesday:
- 09:00-11:00 Lecture: how do you design a space that really works for the people using it?
- 11:00-13:00 Workshop: who uses your building, and what do they need?
- 13:00-13:30 Lunch
- 13:30-15:30 Project work: identifying the key players in your type of building
Wednesday:
- 09:00-12:00 Company visit: seeing what FM is like in real life
- 12:00-12:30 Lunch
- 12:30-14:30 Reflecting on the visit: what can you take away for your own project?
Thursday:
- 09:00-11:00 Workshop: using AI as a facility manager: how can you do so in a smart and responsible way?
- 11:00-12:00 A quick catch-up with your study coach
- 12:00-12:30 Lunch
- 12:30-14:30 Moving forward with your project: working out the technology for your building
Friday:
- 09:00-11:00 Lecture: how do you ensure a building is sustainable while complying with regulations?
- 11:00-13:00 Workshop: what could go wrong, and how can I prevent it?
- 13:00-13:30 Lunch
- 13:30-15:00 Week wrap-up: updating your project deliverableand filling in the AI logbook
Study coaching
Throughout your studies, you will work on developing your personal and professional skills. You will do this together with your study coach. Topics covered in this programme include time management, communication skills, teamwork, learning styles, leadership styles, report writing and referencing, digital skills, and working with specific computer programs. In your second year, you will start working with Lumina Spark, which will give you insight into your strengths and areas for development.
In the final stages of the study programme, the focus shifts to the professional field, where decision-making, senior leadership, negotiation, and entrepreneurship are important topics.
Part of the Personal and Professional Development programme is your Learning Logbook. You create this yourself, with help from your study coach. You use it to review your study progress and professional development together.f, guided by your study coach. Based on this plan, you will review your study progress and development together with your study coach.
Student well-being
BUas encourages and helps you to make the most of yourself, whatever your circumstances. Maybe you have a chronic illness, are a family carer, a competitive athlete, or juggle your studies with running your own business? Our study coaches, student counsellors and student psychologists are here to help. Do you need extra support or advice? Or extra facilities? Then take a look at the options here.
Facility services are everywhere, so it makes sense that this programme allows you to integrate with specialisations from our Tourism and Leisure & Events programmes! You make this choice at the end of year 1. Instead of continuing with the standard Facility Management curriculum, you will then embark on a specialisation from the perspective of Facility Management.
- Attractions & Theme Parks Management (English)
From the second year, you can choose to pursue the two-year Attractions & Theme Parks Management (ATPM) track. This is a specialisation offered to students from the Tourism Management, Facility Management, and Leisure & Events Management programmes.
Why this specialisation?
The number of attraction and theme parks is still growing and the competition is fierce. It’s not just theme parks that are constantly reinventing themselves; holiday resorts, zoos, shopping centres and museums - to name a few examples from your future field of work - also focus more and more on creating memorable experiences. In addition, there is still much to gain in terms of corporate social responsibility. In short, things can and must change to become more experiential and more sustainable.A new generation of managers
There is great demand for a new generation of managers capable of creating successful and meaningful concepts and experiences (concept design) from a business perspective (business design). In this specialisation, you will learn how to innovate products and services to create added value for both visitors and the company you work for.The challenge
There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all business model in the world of attraction and theme parks. The challenge is to make the right combinations and come up with something that makes you stand out and builds goodwill. An example? Zoos are making a turn towards a more ethical and educational approach, whereas museums are adding a bit more experience and interaction. And theme parks try to immerse people in complete themed worlds. Digitalisation, AI and sustainability are playing an increasing role at all parks, and we also pay a lot of attention to these themes within BUas.What will you do?
You will dive into the world of marketing, finance, workforce planning and safety, because you need that knowledge. But you will also explore the fields of Hospitality, Imagineering and Storytelling. You will work on your creative leadership skills and learn about change management. Each course is linked to a real client from the world of attractions. During your studies, you can do a placement at ‘world parks’ such as Walt Disney World in Orlando, Europa-Park, and Efteling.More information can be found on the website of Attractions & Theme Parks Management.
- Social Innovation
Starting in your second year, you can dive into the three-year Social Innovation track. This is an ideal choice for anyone studying Tourism, Facility or Leisure & Events who is socially conscious and eager to make a meaningful contribution.
Social Innovation is all about coming up with solutions with people, not just for them. You will team up with fellow students in the Performatory on campus to brainstorm creative solutions to societal issues in areas like health, equality, human rights, and the environment.
Examples of project challenges include:
- Finding ways for tourism to benefit local communities
- Organising a dance party for people experiencing homelessness
- Designing future-ready workspaces
You will tackle real-world problems for all kinds of organisations, just think of sports events organisers, theatres, museums, festivals, and also healthcare institutions and governments. You will often work across different sectors, collaborating with new people while expanding both your network and experience.
Social Innovation at BUas boasts a vibrant community with diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise. A unique aspect of this track is that you get to shape your own learning journey.
You will choose your own topics and projects within a clear framework. Each year, you will engage in about eight hands-on projects, utilising design-thinking skills. What’s more, you will work in self-chosen teams, mixing with students from other years and programmes.
Here you can find more about the specialisation Social Innovation.
- Transformative Airlines and Airport Management (TAAM)
Aviation is changing rapidly – and with TAAM, you can be part of it! It’s a 2-year specialisation combining four fields: aviation, logistics, facility management and tourism. While others focus on just one aspect, you’ll learn how everything comes together to create unforgettable travel experiences. Students in Tourism Management, Facility Management, Logistics Management or Logistics Engineering who have successfully completed their first year can take this English specialisation in years 2 and 3.
You’ll become a leader in airport management and business strategy, with an eye for customer experience and sustainability. You’ll learn how to make the travel industry greener using smart technology and circular solutions. All of this in small groups, with personal guidance and direct contact with industry professionals.
Here you can find more information about this specialisation.
To experience your theory in the real world, you will go on two international field trips, during your facilities management programme. Only then you can see, look and feel what it’s like to work in the facilities management business.
Field trip in the propaedeutic phase
The main goal of your trip in the first year is to show you the international field of facility management and to familiarise you with everything that happens in it. During the trip, you will learn all about facility concepts and services, intercultural aspects, and sustainable developments in your future working environment. During the trip, you will obviously see and hear a lot. You will also meet professionals in the sector. The aim is for you to gather all these experiences for yourself, reflect on what they mean to you, and consider what you can learn from them and how you can apply them.
Field trip in year 3
This field trip within Europe focuses on project management in an intercultural context, in which you (further) develop your skills in the areas of design thinking, group dynamics and leadership in an international setting.
- After pre-university education (vwo) - 3 years
You will benefit from the intensive three-year programme in two respects: you gain one year in time, and save one year of tuition fees.
- after pre-university education (vwo): you will start in year 2 and also receive basic knowledge and skills from year 1.
- after propaedeutic year (economic programme): you will start in year 2 and also receive basic knowledge and skills from year 1.
The differences between the three- and four-year programme can mainly be found in your first year of study. The three-year programme starts with modules from the second year of the regular programme. To ensure that basic knowledge of the first year is covered, some additional classes are scheduled and relevant study material is made available to you. Furthermore you will receive a short introduction to the facility industry with practical components in our in-school training company Sibelicious.
For both the regular four-year programme and the special three-year programme a minimum of 60 ECTS credits need to be completed during the first year of study. Changing from one track to the other during the course of study will not be possible.
- After a propaedeutic certificate (professional or academic) - 3 years
You will benefit from the intensive three-year programme in two respects: you gain one year in time, and save one year of tuition fees.
- after pre-university education (vwo): you will start in year 2 and also receive basic knowledge and skills from year 1.
- after propaedeutic year (economic programme): you will start in year 2 and also receive basic knowledge and skills from year 1.
The differences between the three- and four-year programme can mainly be found in your first year of study. The three-year programme starts with modules from the second year of the regular programme. To ensure that basic knowledge of the first year is covered, some additional classes are scheduled and relevant study material is made available to you. Furthermore you will receive a short introduction to the facility industry with practical components in our in-school training company Sibelicious.
For both the regular four-year programme and the special three-year programme a minimum of 60 ECTS credits need to be completed during the first year of study. Changing from one track to the other during the course of study will not be possible.
- After a related secondary vocational education programme (mbo) - 3 years
Do you already hold an mbo 4 diploma in Facilitaire dienstverlening? If so, you may be eligible for the three-year track, provided you meet the following criteria:
- you have studied in English and/or have relevant international work experience
- you have good school results
- you have a fully completed checklist, signed off by the coordinator of your mbo programme, with a positive outcome
Please send an email to [email protected]. You will then receive the checklist and instructions on how to comply with it.
At BUas, you develop your entrepreneurial skills in all programmes. You can also join BUas Startup Support (BUSS), where you attend networking meetings and receive guidance from a startup coach.
Would you like to graduate with your own company? You can do that at any academy, although a selection procedure may apply. Whether you are already generating revenue or just have an initial idea, BUas Startup Support will help you.
Read more about starting your own business.
- Year 1
-
The programme consists of four years. Each year consists of four blocks of nine to ten weeks each. More information about the programme and the courses can be found in the complete programme overview. Below, we will explain what you can expect in the first year.
In the first year – the propaedeutic phase – you will complete four blocks. Based on a project/assignment from the professional field, you will start acquiring the right knowledge and developing your professional skills. Each block consists of a number of courses. Each block covers a number of topics that highlight the various aspects of the facilities industry.
During your first week, you will visit a company with your class and immediately get a glimpse behind the scenes of the facility management industry.
- Block A - Fundamentals of Facility Management
Who actually makes sure that a music venue, hospital, stadium or airport simply works? That the lighting functions, the catering is ready, and the spaces are safe? That's facility management, and in this block you'll discover what that field is all about.
Together with your group, you choose a sector, from healthcare and logistics to retail or government, and dive into it for the whole block. Each week focuses on a different theme: spaces, processes, services, people and technology. What you learn, you consistently translate into small creative products – a poster, a video or a mind map. At the end, you will present your findings and show how sustainability and AI are changing your chosen sector.
- Block B – Service Excellence
Are you ready to show off your creativity? Design a unique concept for a company (e.g. a coffee corner) and discover the secrets behind successful concepts. Work in teams to gather insights, describe key concepts, and discover how different areas of knowledge are connected. Why does one idea work and another not? This is your chance to shine!
- Block C – Organisational Dynamics
Imagine walking through an airport, a hospital or a large office. Why does one space feel pleasant and another doesn't? In this block, you'll find out exactly why. You'll explore the people who use a building: visitors, staff, patients. What do they need? What's missing? You'll use research methods to find out, not based on gut feeling, but on data.
Then you’ll get to work. You choose a concrete issue, gather information and come up with workplace concepts that really work in practice. Think smarter walking routes, better workspace layouts or measures that improve safety. At the end, you present’ll solutions that improve the experience, well-being and safety of the people in a building. Creative thinking is encouraged, but you'll need to keep both feet firmly on the ground.
- Block D – Buildings & Spaces
A building is never just a building. The way a space is designed, laid out and managed determines how people work, learn and come together. In this block, you will learn to view buildings through the eyes of a facilities professional.
You’ll work on a project and develop a proposal for the redesign of a workplace, supported by figures and visuals. You’ll use digital tools such as Excel, Power BI and AI. Company visits will connect what you learn in class to everyday practice.
- Years 2, 3 and 4
-
- Years 2 and 3
Years 2 and 3 merge into each other. During this period, you will take 6 modules and complete a six-month internship abroad.
Block – Operational Efficiency
How do you ensure an organisation runs smoothly? In this block, you’ll delve into the processes that keep facility management running: from contract management and procurement to tendering and service delivery. You’ll not only learn what these processes are, but also how to analyse, improve and make them more sustainable.At the same time, you’ll develop your role as a professional. You’ll practise taking on different roles – specialist, adviser, manager or change agent – and learn how to collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams. The block concludes with an individual role-play and a group recommendation for a real client.
Block – Business Resilience
How can you make a building smarter and more sustainable? In this block, you’ll analyse a fictional shopping centre and identify areas for improvement in terms of technology, data and sustainability.You’ll work with your group as consultants. You’ll gather data on the shopping centre, compile it into a clear digital dashboard and write a consultancy report with specific proposals for improvement. You’ll use AI as a tool, but you’ll also consider when you should and shouldn’t rely on it. You’ll discuss the latter individually with a panel of assessors, who’ll ask you questions about your choices and your reasoning.
Block – Integrated Services
Why do people actually return to the office? And as a facility manager, how do you ensure the workplace is so appealing that employees choose to come in of their own accord? That is the central question of this module.Working in a group for a real-world client, you investigate how the workplace can better align with employee needs. You conduct interviews, analyse FM services, and ultimately produce a concrete advisory report. Finally, you simulate a stakeholder meeting—taking on roles ranging from FM consultant to HR manager or employee representative—and defend your position.
Block – Integrated Spaces
Imagine a company facing a space-related challenge: workstations are underutilised, the layout is no longer fit for purpose, and there is a lack of clear oversight. You and your team are hired as junior FM consultants to resolve this.You develop a detailed plan for transitioning to a new workplace layout and configure a digital FM system that enables the company to manage its building professionally moving forward. You make decisions regarding space allocation, service outsourcing, and data organisation—and you must be able to justify these choices. At the end of the module, you provide a live demonstration of the system and present your approach to a panel.
Year 3
Block – Design in Facility Management
How do you design a workplace that really works for the people who use it? In this block, you’ll tackle a specific challenge set by a real client. You choose your own focus: think of an inclusive workplace for neurodiversity, hybrid working, circular office design or well-being at work.You’ll work with a fellow student and go through the entire design process: from user research and generating ideas to a detailed prototype with a financial and operational implementation plan. You’ll incorporate AI as part of your design process or prototype, and reflect on how to do so responsibly. Halfway through, you’ll give an individual presentation on your in-depth literature review. At the end, you’ll jointly submit a design portfolio, which will be assessed partly on the basis of feedback from your client.
Block – Innovation Leadership
Imagine: a facility management company or department asks you for strategic advice. What should this company or department do to align well with the future needs of your business clients? In this block, you will work with a small group of fellow students to address precisely that question.You'll delve into strategic management and change management, translating this into a concrete leadership manifesto for the board. There's also room to reflect on what ethically responsible leadership means to you as an individual. You’ll then develop your strongest recommendations into an investment plan, including financial justification, before you present your advice to the client in person.
- Year 4
In your graduation year (year 4), you will work on your thesis and you can do another study component of your choice, such as an exchange, a minor, a pre-master’s, an additional placement, or writing a consultancy report or business plan. For your thesis as well as the optional part, you will obviously choose a topic (or context) that suits you perfectly! You will be supported in this process by a study coach, who will guide you through to your thesis defence.
- Placement
For 24 weeks you will experience living and working in a real-life, cross-cultural facility environment abroad. You work approximately 40 hours per week. During your placement, you may receive a visit from your supervising lecturer, to make sure that you are doing well, that your placement company is taking good care of you, and of course, to discuss your professional and personal development.
During your work placement, your supervising lecturer may visit you to check that you are doing well, that your host organisation is looking after you properly and, of course, to discuss your professional and personal development. We offer work placements in the following regions, among others: countries within Europe, Australia (Sydney), Aruba, Bonaire and Sint Maarten. Please bear in mind that these destinations may change due to unforeseen circumstances.
- Exchange
Studying abroad is the perfect opportunity to push your boundaries. You build up an international network, learn a new language, and gain insight into intercultural differences. BUas works with universities all over the world, so as an exchange student you have plenty of options. Some examples are:
- Helsinki, Finland
- Flagstaff, United States
- Kufstein, Austria
- Hong Kong Polytechnic University, China
- Budapest Business School, Hungary
- Minor
With a minor, you choose for yourself: do you want to specialise in your field or broaden your knowledge? You can take a minor at BUas, but you can also choose to do a minor at another Dutch university of applied sciences, or even abroad.
- Pre-master
In your final year of study, you may choose to attend the academic pre-master's track in [nhtv:strSBMM] (SBM). This pre-master will give you direct access to Master of Science programmes at top universities such as Maastricht, Rotterdam, Tilburg, Antwerp (B), and Warwick (UK). You can also move on to our university master's degree in Leisure and Tourism Studies. This way, you can earn a university master's degree in just five years – or even in four years, through the accelerated (three-year) track.
- Teaching method
-
This programme uses a wide variety of teaching methods. You’ll attend lectures, workshops, practical sessions at our training company Sibelicious, and undertake plenty of group assignments. You’ll be assessed throughout each block, give final presentations and also submit portfolios. The Facility Management programme is characterised by small-scale teaching, which means you’ll build a strong rapport with your lecturers and also have several one-to-one meetings with your coach.
No boring lectures where you just take notes. At FM, you tackle real assignments from real companies. With small class sizes, you know your lecturers by their first names and receive personalised guidance. You’re not just a number in a large lecture theatre.
This programme trains you to become an all-round facility manager. First, you’ll focus on your personal development. Together with your fellow students, you’ll work not only on acquiring knowledge but also on developing your skills. We help you learn the things you need to know and be able to do, and we offer you practical, on-the-job training. It’s all about the mix of qualities, attitude and skills you need as a professional. This programme gives you everything you need to find the international job of your dreams!
- Study load and coaching
-
Study load
On average, you will spend 35 hours per week on your studies. You will attend lectures and work on projects, and prepare for examinations and assessments. Classes take place between 9.00 and 17.00 hrs. During practical weeks, you will work full-time in the kitchen, restaurant or at the Visitor Centre on campus. Class hours are then between 8.00 and 22.00 hrs.- A typical week
Curious what a week really looks like? No two weeks are the same, but this gives you a good idea.
Monday:
- 9:00-11:00 Lecture: what does a facility manager actually do all day?
- 11:00-13:00 Workshop: who all has a stake in your building, and what do they want?
- 13:00-13:30 Lunch
- 13:30-15:30 Getting started with your project: mapping out your building
Tuesday:
- 09:00-11:00 Lecture: how do you design a space that really works for the people using it?
- 11:00-13:00 Workshop: who uses your building, and what do they need?
- 13:00-13:30 Lunch
- 13:30-15:30 Project work: identifying the key players in your type of building
Wednesday:
- 09:00-12:00 Company visit: seeing what FM is like in real life
- 12:00-12:30 Lunch
- 12:30-14:30 Reflecting on the visit: what can you take away for your own project?
Thursday:
- 09:00-11:00 Workshop: using AI as a facility manager: how can you do so in a smart and responsible way?
- 11:00-12:00 A quick catch-up with your study coach
- 12:00-12:30 Lunch
- 12:30-14:30 Moving forward with your project: working out the technology for your building
Friday:
- 09:00-11:00 Lecture: how do you ensure a building is sustainable while complying with regulations?
- 11:00-13:00 Workshop: what could go wrong, and how can I prevent it?
- 13:00-13:30 Lunch
- 13:30-15:00 Week wrap-up: updating your project deliverableand filling in the AI logbook
Study coaching
Throughout your studies, you will work on developing your personal and professional skills. You will do this together with your study coach. Topics covered in this programme include time management, communication skills, teamwork, learning styles, leadership styles, report writing and referencing, digital skills, and working with specific computer programs. In your second year, you will start working with Lumina Spark, which will give you insight into your strengths and areas for development.In the final stages of the study programme, the focus shifts to the professional field, where decision-making, senior leadership, negotiation, and entrepreneurship are important topics.
Part of the Personal and Professional Development programme is your Learning Logbook. You create this yourself, with help from your study coach. You use it to review your study progress and professional development together.f, guided by your study coach. Based on this plan, you will review your study progress and development together with your study coach.
Student well-being
BUas encourages and helps you to make the most of yourself, whatever your circumstances. Maybe you have a chronic illness, are a family carer, a competitive athlete, or juggle your studies with running your own business? Our study coaches, student counsellors and student psychologists are here to help. Do you need extra support or advice? Or extra facilities? Then take a look at the options here. - Specialisations
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Facility services are everywhere, so it makes sense that this programme allows you to integrate with specialisations from our Tourism and Leisure & Events programmes! You make this choice at the end of year 1. Instead of continuing with the standard Facility Management curriculum, you will then embark on a specialisation from the perspective of Facility Management.
- Attractions & Theme Parks Management (English)
From the second year, you can choose to pursue the two-year Attractions & Theme Parks Management (ATPM) track. This is a specialisation offered to students from the Tourism Management, Facility Management, and Leisure & Events Management programmes.
Why this specialisation?
The number of attraction and theme parks is still growing and the competition is fierce. It’s not just theme parks that are constantly reinventing themselves; holiday resorts, zoos, shopping centres and museums - to name a few examples from your future field of work - also focus more and more on creating memorable experiences. In addition, there is still much to gain in terms of corporate social responsibility. In short, things can and must change to become more experiential and more sustainable.A new generation of managers
There is great demand for a new generation of managers capable of creating successful and meaningful concepts and experiences (concept design) from a business perspective (business design). In this specialisation, you will learn how to innovate products and services to create added value for both visitors and the company you work for.The challenge
There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all business model in the world of attraction and theme parks. The challenge is to make the right combinations and come up with something that makes you stand out and builds goodwill. An example? Zoos are making a turn towards a more ethical and educational approach, whereas museums are adding a bit more experience and interaction. And theme parks try to immerse people in complete themed worlds. Digitalisation, AI and sustainability are playing an increasing role at all parks, and we also pay a lot of attention to these themes within BUas.What will you do?
You will dive into the world of marketing, finance, workforce planning and safety, because you need that knowledge. But you will also explore the fields of Hospitality, Imagineering and Storytelling. You will work on your creative leadership skills and learn about change management. Each course is linked to a real client from the world of attractions. During your studies, you can do a placement at ‘world parks’ such as Walt Disney World in Orlando, Europa-Park, and Efteling.More information can be found on the website of Attractions & Theme Parks Management.
- Social Innovation
Starting in your second year, you can dive into the three-year Social Innovation track. This is an ideal choice for anyone studying Tourism, Facility or Leisure & Events who is socially conscious and eager to make a meaningful contribution.
Social Innovation is all about coming up with solutions with people, not just for them. You will team up with fellow students in the Performatory on campus to brainstorm creative solutions to societal issues in areas like health, equality, human rights, and the environment.
Examples of project challenges include:
- Finding ways for tourism to benefit local communities
- Organising a dance party for people experiencing homelessness
- Designing future-ready workspaces
You will tackle real-world problems for all kinds of organisations, just think of sports events organisers, theatres, museums, festivals, and also healthcare institutions and governments. You will often work across different sectors, collaborating with new people while expanding both your network and experience.
Social Innovation at BUas boasts a vibrant community with diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise. A unique aspect of this track is that you get to shape your own learning journey.
You will choose your own topics and projects within a clear framework. Each year, you will engage in about eight hands-on projects, utilising design-thinking skills. What’s more, you will work in self-chosen teams, mixing with students from other years and programmes.
Here you can find more about the specialisation Social Innovation.
- Transformative Airlines and Airport Management (TAAM)
Aviation is changing rapidly – and with TAAM, you can be part of it! It’s a 2-year specialisation combining four fields: aviation, logistics, facility management and tourism. While others focus on just one aspect, you’ll learn how everything comes together to create unforgettable travel experiences. Students in Tourism Management, Facility Management, Logistics Management or Logistics Engineering who have successfully completed their first year can take this English specialisation in years 2 and 3.
You’ll become a leader in airport management and business strategy, with an eye for customer experience and sustainability. You’ll learn how to make the travel industry greener using smart technology and circular solutions. All of this in small groups, with personal guidance and direct contact with industry professionals.
Here you can find more information about this specialisation.
- Excursions and field trips
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To experience your theory in the real world, you will go on two international field trips, during your facilities management programme. Only then you can see, look and feel what it’s like to work in the facilities management business.
Field trip in the propaedeutic phase
The main goal of your trip in the first year is to show you the international field of facility management and to familiarise you with everything that happens in it. During the trip, you will learn all about facility concepts and services, intercultural aspects, and sustainable developments in your future working environment. During the trip, you will obviously see and hear a lot. You will also meet professionals in the sector. The aim is for you to gather all these experiences for yourself, reflect on what they mean to you, and consider what you can learn from them and how you can apply them.Field trip in year 3
This field trip within Europe focuses on project management in an intercultural context, in which you (further) develop your skills in the areas of design thinking, group dynamics and leadership in an international setting.
- Study tracks after vwo, hbo or wo
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- After pre-university education (vwo) - 3 years
You will benefit from the intensive three-year programme in two respects: you gain one year in time, and save one year of tuition fees.
- after pre-university education (vwo): you will start in year 2 and also receive basic knowledge and skills from year 1.
- after propaedeutic year (economic programme): you will start in year 2 and also receive basic knowledge and skills from year 1.
The differences between the three- and four-year programme can mainly be found in your first year of study. The three-year programme starts with modules from the second year of the regular programme. To ensure that basic knowledge of the first year is covered, some additional classes are scheduled and relevant study material is made available to you. Furthermore you will receive a short introduction to the facility industry with practical components in our in-school training company Sibelicious.
For both the regular four-year programme and the special three-year programme a minimum of 60 ECTS credits need to be completed during the first year of study. Changing from one track to the other during the course of study will not be possible.
- After a propaedeutic certificate (professional or academic) - 3 years
You will benefit from the intensive three-year programme in two respects: you gain one year in time, and save one year of tuition fees.
- after pre-university education (vwo): you will start in year 2 and also receive basic knowledge and skills from year 1.
- after propaedeutic year (economic programme): you will start in year 2 and also receive basic knowledge and skills from year 1.
The differences between the three- and four-year programme can mainly be found in your first year of study. The three-year programme starts with modules from the second year of the regular programme. To ensure that basic knowledge of the first year is covered, some additional classes are scheduled and relevant study material is made available to you. Furthermore you will receive a short introduction to the facility industry with practical components in our in-school training company Sibelicious.
For both the regular four-year programme and the special three-year programme a minimum of 60 ECTS credits need to be completed during the first year of study. Changing from one track to the other during the course of study will not be possible.
- After a related secondary vocational education programme (mbo) - 3 years
Do you already hold an mbo 4 diploma in Facilitaire dienstverlening? If so, you may be eligible for the three-year track, provided you meet the following criteria:
- you have studied in English and/or have relevant international work experience
- you have good school results
- you have a fully completed checklist, signed off by the coordinator of your mbo programme, with a positive outcome
Please send an email to [email protected]. You will then receive the checklist and instructions on how to comply with it.
- Entrepreneurship
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At BUas, you develop your entrepreneurial skills in all programmes. You can also join BUas Startup Support (BUSS), where you attend networking meetings and receive guidance from a startup coach.
Would you like to graduate with your own company? You can do that at any academy, although a selection procedure may apply. Whether you are already generating revenue or just have an initial idea, BUas Startup Support will help you.
Read more about starting your own business.
What makes this programme unique
International
Our study programme is the only English-taught programme in the field of facility management in the Netherlands with a strong focus on internationalisation.
One-to-one coaching
A personal coach will monitor your progress and development throughout your studies and will encourage you in your academic discovery.
Admission & application
- What are the admission requirements?
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To be admitted to this degree programme, you need a higher general secondary education (havo) or pre-university education (vwo) diploma with an appropriate profile, or an equivalent of these Dutch diplomas. You can also be admitted with a secondary vocational education (mbo level-4) diploma.
- Check out the complete admission requirements and the possibilities if you do not meet the requirements
- Additional requirements have been set for the 3-year track.
- What does this study programme cost?
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In the academic year 2026-2027 the statutory tuition fee for bachelor's programmes is €2,694. In addition, you should take extra costs for software, excursions, etc. into account.
- How can I apply?
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If you meet the admission requirements, you can apply for this study programme. If you do so before 1 May, you can certainly start your studies.
What others say about Facility Management
"FM: the best decision we’ve ever made"
The graduates were exceptional
The graduates I took on board from Breda University were exceptional, having a thorough understanding of the basics of facility management and core skills like project management.
They enjoy what they are learning
Frequently asked questions
- What does a facility manager do?
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You take care that people can work well. Just think of an office that is well-equipped, a building that is safe and sustainable, and events that run smoothly behind the scenes. You as a facility manager are the one that takes care of all that.
What you do:
- Design workplaces that really make people happy
- Organise events and arranging technical and security facilities
- Coordinate projects and putting new ideas into practice
- Advise companies on housing and strategy
You will find facility managers everywhere: at international companies, at airports, in theatres, and in large office buildings. It is a subject area that is constantly developing.
- Do you have to do a work placement outside of the Netherlands?
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Yes, and that is exactly what adds value to the study programme. In year 2 or 3, you do a work placement of at least five months at a facility organisation outside of the Netherlands. You gain real work experience, get to know yourself, and build an international network.
Popular work placement destinations include Australia, Dubai, Malta, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. You will be supported in finding a placement position that suits you.
- What is the difference between Facility Management and Hotel Management?
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Both study programmes are in English and both can be done at BUas. Their focus, however, is very different.
If you do Facility Management, you focus on companies and organisations. You design workplaces, manage buildings, and give advice on housing and new methods/ideas. You work for and with companies: your client is the organisation and the people that work there.
If you do Hotel Management, everything is about the guest experience. You learn to run hotels and resorts and work for and with companies: your client is the guest.
Another practical difference is that you do not need to master a second modern foreign language if you do Facility Management. The study programme has a broad focus, from airports and international offices to hospitals and event locations.
- Can you work alongside this study programme?
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Yes, you can work alongside Facility Management, but you must have good planning skills. The study load is, on average, 40 hours a week, including about 20 to 24 contact hours a week. You spend the days on which you do not have any lessons working on assignments on your own or with a small group, which you can plan more flexibly. Many students work in the evenings or at weekends.
Where do you want to be working in 4 years?
- The job market needs you
Explore your career options - Choose your path
Discover your potential - Learn from the best
Graduates share their experiences
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