![Een AI afbeelding van de binnenkant van een hoofd](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/header_slider_wide_desktop/public/ADS-AI_hoofdbeeld2023_1600x450.jpg?h=56897dfe&itok=uUKusscb) # Applied Data Science & Artificial Intelligence Bachelor 4 years Full-time English Start 1 September 2026 - [Apply to BUas](https://www.buas.nl/en/international-students/admission-and-application) #### **The best Applied Data Science & AI degree programme in the Netherlands** Highest student satisfaction, highest study success, and lowest dropout rate in the first year - according to the National Student Survey (NSE). Building an AI model that recognises brain tumours. Helping football club NAC Breda with data to scout the right players. Or making game characters respond dynamically thanks to more advanced AI. If you study Applied Data Science & AI, you will work on real projects for real clients such as Unilever, Signify, and CM.com from day one. Data and AI are not only about technology. You will also learn to think creatively, collaborate with other fields of study and come up with solutions that really work for people. In four years’ time, you will learn to programme, analyse data, and build AI models. After you have completed your studies, you can work as a Data Scientist, Data Engineer or Analytics Translator, among other things. 1. #### No. 1 in Own Category Keuzegids 2026 2. #### Top rated programme Keuzegids 2026 3. #### No. 1 labour market and professional relevance National Student Survey 2025 Story: Applied Data Science & AI ### BUas Stories Click, swipe and explore this programme. [](https://stories.buas.nl/QpdxvVA?embed=1) ### Distinctive feature of small-scale and intensive education ![Certificaat van kleinschalig en intensief onderwijs](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/free_gemiddeld_wysiwyg/public/2025-02/BUas%20Zegel%20Special%20Feauture%20MOCW_small-scale%20and%20intensive%20education_2025_DEF%20%28002%29.png?itok=zp2Rh-my) The Applied Data Science & Artificial Intelligence programme at BUas has been recognised by the NVAO as ‘small-scale and intensive’. This means for you: - **Best ADS&AI programme in the Netherlands** according to the National Student Survey 2025 - **Personal guidance in small, international teams** – you receive intensive coaching from experienced instructors - **Real practice from day one** – work on projects with data from external partners - **Fast transition to work or master's** – graduates quickly find jobs or continue to top programmes such as aivancity in Paris - **Selection based on motivation** – you study with students who, like you, want to make an impact It’s a challenging programme, but it gives you everything you need to truly make a difference with data. ## What is Applied Data Science & Artificial Intelligence? ![Studenten werken achter hun laptop](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/header_slider_default/public/2025-07/Data%20Science%20slider%201.jpg?h=a5dbbb5c&itok=dPVvLGCD) ### Practical AI solutions Our Applied Data Science & AI programme focuses on practical AI solutions to real-life problems ![Twee studenten bekijken statistieken op een computer](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/header_slider_default/public/2025-07/Data%20Science%20slider%202.jpg?h=f1f56e21&itok=Hs-V3DOB) ### Social projects Our programme includes social projects, such as SDG projects for first-year students ![Drie studenten zitten met een laptop op een bank](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/header_slider_default/public/2024-08/Slider%203%20DSAI.jpg?h=a4ca2563&itok=WkIeIlJb) ### International BUas is international; students work and study in an international classroom ![Twee studenten aan het werk achter een pc](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/header_slider_default/public/2025-09/2025_Student%20Ambassadors%20AI%20datalab3.jpg?h=41596d2f&itok=ByjG7KSY) ### Collaborating in DataLab Work on real data projects in the DataLab, either individually or together with others ![Afgestudeerde studenten lopen over de campus](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/header_slider_default/public/2024-07/Na%20je%20bachelor.jpg?h=f6eabd1f&itok=RMSp7rPN) ### From bachelor's to master's degree Earn your BUas bachelor's degree *and* a master's degree in data or AI in 4 or 5 years ![](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/header_slider_default/public/around-the-globe-800x600.jpg?h=62db3063&itok=5G1LUk0y) ### Global partnerships BUas collaborates with universities worldwide, offering students exchange opportunities across the globe [ ![Schermafbeelding van de quiz](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/max_650x650/public/2025-10/ADSAI_Quiz%20Interactives.png?h=309e12e8&itok=8x-N7uP_) ](https://stories.buas.nl/pTFyzpB?embed=1) ## Do you think you would enjoy working with data and artificial intelligence? Discover if Applied Data Science & Artificial Intelligence is right for you with our quiz. - It only takes 3 minutes - Your result in seconds - Learn more about Applied Data Science & AI [Start the quiz ](https://stories.buas.nl/pTFyzpB?embed=1) ## Study overview - [Year 1](#tab-year-1) - [Years 2, 3 and 4](#tab-years-2-3-and-4) - [Teaching method](#tab-teaching-method) - [Study load and coaching](#tab-study-load-and-coaching) - [Team roles](#tab-team-roles) - [Excursions and field trips ](#tab-excursions-and-field-trips-) - [Study track after vwo or hbo](#tab-study-track-after-vwo-or-hbo) - [Entrepreneurship](#tab-entrepreneurship) The first year consists of four blocks. They cover basic skills that build towards tightly defined projects to enhance your knowledge. Topics that will be discussed are: - AI & Future markets - Project & change management - Data Science - Mathematics & Statistics - Programming in Python - Data interface design Two days a week you work on projects in DataLab. A complete overview of the curriculum, courses, content descriptions and learning objectives can be found in the [study guide](https://www.buas.nl/documents/studyguide/ads&ai). Below, we explain what you can expect in each year. ![](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/2025-04/Curriculum%20ADS%26AI%202025-26.jpg) **Year 2** In the second year, you will attend four blocks in which you continue to develop your skills in your chosen role: Data Scientist, Data Engineer or Analytics Translator. During this year, you will also spend two days a week working in the DataLab. **Year 3** During the first half of the third year, which consists of two blocks, you will work full-time on projects in the DataLab, specialising further in your chosen role. In addition, you will delve into a specific application area, such as Data Science & Logistics, Built Environment, Media or Games. You will also have the opportunity to go on exchange in the first half of the year. In the second half of the third year, you will do a placement. **Year 4** In your graduation year, you will work on two projects. You can choose from several options: work on your portfolio, both individually and as part of a team (with individual assessment), undertake a project at a company where you deliver a concrete result, write a business plan or start your own company supported by our specialists in entrepreneurship, or spend a semester on exchange at one of our partner universities. You can also combine two of these projects into a year-long project. Alternatively, you may gain a year’s work experience in a graduation internship. PlacementIn the second half of the third year, you will undertake a work placement. What’s more, you can choose to complete a graduation internship in the fourth year. During your placement, you will gain practical experience and discover what suits you best. The programme has an international network which offers a wide range of work placements, both at home and abroad. You can make use of this network or look for a suitable placement yourself. The Student Affairs team will support you in your search for a placement. ExchangeStudying 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: - St. Polten University (St. Polten, Austria) - Jyväskylä University of Applied Sciences (Jyväskylä, Finland) - Kristiania University College (Norway) - SUPSI (Switzerland) - Northern Arizona University (Flagstaff, US) MinorWith 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](https://www.buas.nl/en/minors), but you can also choose to do a minor at another Dutch university of applied sciences, or even abroad. The programme uses the method of project-based education. This means that you gain your knowledge and skills by investigating a complex question, problem or challenge over a period of time. As a result, you learn how to analyse a problem and how to use different resources to arrive at a good solution. During this programme, you will develop into a data specialist, AI programmer or project manager/consultant. In a digital learning environment, you will learn to gain knowledge and insights from data using specific methods, processes and systems. You will also gain a broad knowledge of artificial intelligence. Depending on your chosen role, you will develop skills in technology and consulting. The study programme has adopted a project-driven education method. Throughout all four years of study, you will work on various data projects in a simulated DataLab, both individually and with other students. The Applied Data Science & Artificial Intelligence bachelor’s programme of BUas is the first in the Netherlands to focus on the practical implementation of Artificial Intelligence. The programme is challenging and demanding. Keep in mind that this study programme will take up a lot of your time. We are looking for students who are genuinely interested in the field. A typical weekBelow, you will find an example of a typical week. Keep in mind that this schedule may vary each week, and this example serves as an indication. **Monday –** **Independent study day** - 09.00-17.00: You acquire knowledge via the digital learning environment **Tuesday –** **DataLab day** - 09.15-09.30: Stand-up session in which we discuss what we worked on the previous day and what we are going to do today - 09.30-10.00: We plan the week ahead – what do we need to do to ensure that we deliver the project on time - 10.00-12.00: Project work - 12.00-13.00: Lunch - 13.00-17.00: More project work **Wednesday – Independent study day** - 09.00-17.00: You acquire knowledge via the digital learning environment **Thursday – Independent study day** - 09.00-17.00: You acquire knowledge via the digital learning environment **Friday –** **DataLab day** - 09.15-09.30: Stand-up session - 09.30-12.00: Project work - 13.00-14.00: Lecture on the current part of the project by one of the lecturers - 14.00-17.00: More project work ![](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/2024-10/Week_structure_ads_ai.png) **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](https://www.buas.nl/en/international-students/study-at-buas). **Team roles** In practice, AI and data projects are not carried out by individuals, but mainly by teams of specialists. Such a team typically consists of a Data Scientist, a Data Engineer and an Analytics Translator. In each project, you choose one of these roles: - Data Scientist uses statistics and machine learning to make predictions and address key business - Data Engineer builds and optimises the systems that allow Data Scientists to perform their work - Analytics Translator delivers value by taking data and communicating the results to help make business decisions Many of the sectors that BUas trains for are being radically changed by the emergence of AI applications. A few examples: In urban development, AI applications in smart cities can increase well-being. In logistics, smart inventory management and forecasting, integration of companies through data (industry 4.0) in combination with robotised warehouses ensure more efficient (and more labour-intensive) production. In the media industry, adaptive interfaces ensure that content and advertising are better tailored to individual users. Similarly, the tourism and hospitality industry aim to better tailor their offers to individuals. Chatbots directed by AI contribute to this. AI can contribute to problems such as over-tourism through smart approaches to crowd management. In the third year, students choose an application area. They are taught relevant sector knowledge and the role of data in workshops. In the DataLab they work on the solution of a problem from the chosen sector. During the programme, we combine theory with practice. Students visit companies such as **Banijay Benelux** and the **Netherlands Plant Eco-phenotyping Centre (NPEC)**, where they see how data science and AI work in practice – from media analysis to high-tech plant research. Inspiring and educational! After pre-university education (vwo)**As a pre-university education (vwo) graduate, you can obtain your bachelor’s degree in Applied Data Science & Artificial Intelligence in just three years.** That will save you a year of time and tuition fees! **What does the three-year track for pre-university education graduates look like?** In just three years, you can obtain a full bachelor’s degree. This accelerated programme is designed to equip you with all the essential professional skills. Throughout the programme, you will follow a structured development track focused on enhancing both your personal and professional leadership abilities. **How to apply for the fast track?** Apply via Studielink and select: Applied Data Science & Artificial Intelligence (English-taught / after pre-university education, 3 years). **Want to learn more about the three-year track for pre-university education graduates?** Feel free to reach out via email: . After a propaedeutic certificate (professional or academic)You are also eligible for a three-year track if you have obtained a propaedeutic certificate from an Applied Mathematics / Engineering Mathematics programme (professional higher education (hbo) level). You will then start in the second year of the regular programme. You can submit a higher-year request via Studielink. **How to submit a higher-year request?** If you wish to submit a higher-year request, you should first select Applied Data Science & Artificial Intelligence (English-taught / regular track, 4 years) and then indicate in the dropdown menu that you wish to start in an ‘advanced year’. 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](https://www.buas.nl/en/international-students/study-at-buas/entrepreneurship). ## What makes this study programme unique ![AI-afbeelding van een gezicht met gekleurde reflecties](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/19_7_card_xl/public/2025-03/buas076_AI_Privacy__Security_--ar_43_--v_6.1_d64ec402-cfba-4216-ae45-c94a2feca940_2_1.png?h=c983bb4e&itok=iyRAEKBP) ### Obtain your bachelor’s and master’s in an accelerated track Thanks to BUas's collaboration with aivancity in Paris and JADS in Den Bosch, you can move directly from your Applied Data Science & Artificial Intelligence bachelor’s programme to a master's programme. Through aivancity, you can obtain both your professional bachelor's degree and a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence & Data Science or Data Engineering & Cloud Computing in four or five years. Through JADS, the track takes five or six years and you will obtain an MSc in Data Science in Business & Entrepreneurship. [ More information ](https://www.buas.nl/en/programmes/applied-data-science-artificial-intelligence/bachelors-degree-and-master-of-science-in-four-or-five-years) ![Logo van BUas Games](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2024-12/BUas%20icon%20op%20Oranje%20vierkant_Games.png?h=d27d320c&itok=Nrhj0nI0) ![Portretfoto van Myrthe](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/19_7_card_xl/public/2024-11/MyrtheProfile.jpg%20%28002%29.jpg?h=549f1864&itok=GjWhzjfI) ### Lecturers from the field Our Applied Data Science & AI programme equips students with the latest data science techniques. Lecturers like Myrthe Buckens, a former data scientist at Banijay Benelux, collaborate with students on projects such as analysing viewer ratings and social media sentiment for TV programmes. [Read more about Myrthe ](https://datascience-ai.buas.nl/lecturer-spotlight-myrthe-buckens) ## Admission & application [What are the admission requirements? ](#accordion-what-are-the-admission-requirements-) To be admitted to this degree programme, you need a **higher general secundary education (havo)** or **pre-university education (vwo) diploma** with an appropriate profile, or [an equivalent of these Dutch diplomas](https://www.buas.nl/documents/comparable-eductions.pdf). You can also be admitted with a **secundary vocational education (level-4 mbo) diploma**. If you do not meet these requirements, you can have a look at the [options available](https://www.buas.nl/en/programmes/applied-data-science-artificial-intelligence/admission-requirements) to you. [Information about admission requirements](https://www.buas.nl/en/programmes/applied-data-science-artificial-intelligence/admission-requirements) [What does this study programme cost? ](#accordion-what-does-this-study-programme-cost-) In the academic year 2026-2027 the statutory tuition fee for this bachelor programme is €3,650. In addition, you should take extra costs for software, excursions, etc. into account. [Information about study costs](https://www.buas.nl/en/programmes/artificial-intelligence-data-management/study-costs) [How does the selection process work?](#accordion-how-does-the-selection-process-work) We select a maximum of 125 students, which is why we have a selection process. First of all, you need to apply. Once your previous education has been verified, you will receive a link and full instructions for the assignment. This consists of a portfolio assignment and an interview. [Information about the selection process](https://www.buas.nl/en/programmes/applied-data-science-artificial-intelligence/application-procedure#Step3Takepartintheselectionprocedure) Please note! Don't leave it to the last minute! The earlier you submit your application and assignment, the sooner you’ll know whether you have been accepted. After all, we review applications on an ongoing basis. [How can I apply?](#accordion-how-can-i-apply) If you meet the [admission requirements](https://www.buas.nl/en/programmes/applied-data-science-artificial-intelligence/admission-requirements), you can apply for this study programme. This is a selection programme, meaning that only a limited number of students are admitted each academic year. [More information about applying](https://www.buas.nl/en/programmes/applied-data-science-artificial-intelligence/application-procedure) ## What others say about Data Science & AI [datascience-ai.buas.nl ](https://datascience-ai.buas.nl/) ![Portretfoto van Daniel](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/card_testimonial_avatar/public/2024-09/2024_Daniel%20Elek_DATA%20SCIENCE_VRIJ%20bewerkt.jpg?h=74474b28&itok=deSr2kvp) ### We are not too stressed about exams! "I was really intrigued by the fact there is a study programme about AI offered in Breda. My best memory so far is the moment I created a machine learning model that can differentiate between soldiers… Read more and civilians. It seemed so impossible to me, just a few months before, that I could createsuch a thing in such a limited amount of time. My favourite thing in my studies is that there are hardly any exams; we learn by doing. So we are not too stressed about exams!” Dániel Fourth-year student ![Portretfoto van Dean van Aswegen](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/card_testimonial_avatar/public/Dean-van-Aswegen_ADS-AI.jpg?h=038a9462&itok=yeDB73kG) ### I love to do that and it’s rewarding I think resilience and grit are very important traits that can set students apart. Tackling problems that haven’t yet been solved requires the ability to keep on working at something even if it doesn’t work out initially… Read more . Based on my experience in the fast-moving field of AI and Data Science, I try to guide my students in this process as best as possible. I love to do that and it’s very rewarding! Dean van Aswegen Lecturer Applied Data Science & Artificial Intelligence ![](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/card_testimonial_avatar/public/AIDM%20-%20Judith%20van%20Brussel.jpg?h=2dea92ae&itok=EuVGIiZ8) ### With insights into data we can create a better world Data Science is important to understand our citizens. We use the insights it generates to make predictions and to assure that we know what we have to do in order to stay attractive… Read more in the future. We use data to make a better Breda. Judith van Brussel Digitalisation Programme Manager at the municipality of Breda [Read more about experiences from students and alumni](https://datascience-ai.buas.nl/ "More experiences from students and alumni") ## Frequently asked questions [Should you be able to program before starting Applied Data Science & AI? ](#accordion-should-you-be-able-to-program-before-starting-applied-data-science-ai-) No, you do not need any experience in programming to start Applied Data Science & AI. You learn to program in Python step by step during your studies. The study programme starts with the basics and slowly builds up your knowledge. It is important you should take an interest in technology, data, and logical thinking. Most students start their studies without any programming experience and develop these skills during their studies at BUas. [How difficult is the mathematics test for Applied Data Science & AI? ](#accordion-how-difficult-is-the-mathematics-test-for-applied-data-science-ai-) The mathematics test for Applied Data Science & AI tests your basic knowledge of mathematics at HAVO level. You perform basic calculations that involve numbers and variables, solve linear equations and interpret graphs and functions. There is no time limit, so you can take your time. The result is not all-important, but it helps us determine whether you can cope with the desired level of maths. [What is the difference between Applied Data Science & AI and Informatics? ](#accordion-what-is-the-difference-between-applied-data-science-ai-and-informatics-) Applied Data Science & AI focuses on analysing data and developing AI applications to solve problems. You can start working in all sectors as an AI specialist, for example, healthcare, logistics, media, finance, retail, tech, and much more. Informatics focuses on software development, programming, and building IT systems such as websites, apps, and databases. [Can you work alongside this study programme? ](#accordion-can-you-work-alongside-this-study-programme-) Yes, you can work alongside Applied Data Science & AI, but you must have good planning skills. The study load is, on average, 40 hours a week, including about 20 contact hours a week on fixed days. 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 on class-free days, in the evenings or at weekends. ![Mark: student applied data science & ai](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/3_4_large/public/2025-10/2025_Testimonial_Portret_M%C3%A1rk%20Mo%20%281%29.png?h=ab0ad7e5&itok=cwvlL7n7) ## Your future starts here - **The job market needs you** Explore your career options in data science & AI - **Choose your path** Will you become a Data Scientist, AI Engineer or Data Consultant? - **Learn from the best** Graduates share their experiences [After your studies ](https://www.buas.nl/en/programmes/applied-data-science-artificial-intelligence/after-your-bachelor) ### Discover the campus Would you like to see our campus? Have a virtual look and discover the building where you’ll be studying and what more the campus has to offer. [ Have a look at the video ](https://stories.buas.nl/jEr1K9U) ![Studenten lopen over de BUas campus](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/19_7_card_xl/public/Cover%20-%20Studeren%20buas.nl_.jpg?h=256b4d06&itok=nCC13vEm) ### Studying at BUas What is it like studying at BUas? What does the campus look like and what activities can be undertaken? Is Breda actually a vibrant university town? [ Find out where you are headed ](https://www.buas.nl/en/international-students/study-at-buas) ![Moeder en zoon bekijken een BUas brochure](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/19_7_card_xl/public/2023-08/2022_Youri%26Chris_PVR-1%20%281%29.jpg?h=704ff2ea&itok=lO6Dpyl8) ### Assistance in choosing your study programme Do you already know exactly what you want to study or do you not have any clue at all? Find out, compare and choose your professional/ academic bachelor’s or master’s programme at BUas. [ Find out about all our study programmes ](https://www.buas.nl/en/international-students) ## Also see - [Year schedule](https://www.buas.nl/en/year-schedule) - [Why study at BUas? ](https://www.buas.nl/en/international-students/study-at-buas) - [Educational vision](https://www.buas.nl/en/why-buas/educational-vision) - [Location](https://www.buas.nl/en/about-us/campus/frontier-building) - [National and international rankings](https://www.buas.nl/en/why-buas/ranking) - [Download our brochure](https://www.buas.nl/en/international-students/meet-us/download-or-order-brochure) [More info? Assistance in choosing a study programme ](https://www.buas.nl/en/international-students) window.unibuddySettings = { uni_id: 'breda-university-of-applied-sciences', colour: '00406B', filterKey: 'degreeId', filterValue: '5fa9332bb85072054da8ca89', domain: 'https://popcard.unibuddy.co/', title: 'Unibuddy Popcard', align: 'right', };