![Inheemse vrouwen dansen in traditionele kleding](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/header_slider_wide_desktop/public/2024-08/BSc-Leisure-4000x1250.jpg?h=202e64c8&itok=AUJMtv6_) # Bachelor of Science Leisure Studies Bachelor 3 years Full-time English Wo-Bachelor Start 1 September 2026 - [Apply to BUas](https://www.buas.nl/en/admission-and-application) **Are you interested in the dynamic world of leisure?** **Leisure is all around us, from neighbourhood parties to music festivals, from amateur sports to urban development projects around stadiums, and from art to gaming and esports.** **Do you want to know how to predict how people will spend their leisure time?** **Then maybe this unique programme is just your thing.** In this only academic bachelor's programme in the Netherlands, you will work on the story behind leisure. You will learn how companies can use social media more effectively to attract people. You will also learn which business models are needed in this complex and dynamic leisure sector. You will ensure that people can enjoy their leisure time to the fullest. The programme is a collaboration with Tilburg University. 1. #### No. 76-100 Worldwide GRAS / Shanghai ranking 2. #### No. 1 in the Netherlands GRAS / Shanghai ranking 3. [#### No. 22 Worldwide QS World University Ranking ](https://www.buas.nl/en/why-buas/ranking "https://www.buas.nl/en/why-buas/ranking") Story: BSc Leisure Studies ### BUas Stories Click, swipe and explore this programme. [](https://stories.buas.nl/hWglxY2?embed=1) # Come and meet us Walking around on campus is the best way to truly experience BUas. Sign up for one of the upcoming events or activities. [See all events ](https://www.buas.nl/en/international-students/meet-us) ## What will you learn in this programme? ![Een achtbaan](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/header_slider_default/public/2024-08/Slider%201%20bsc%20Leisure.jpg?h=2050bde3&itok=ARYfEd1H) ### Measuring is knowing Leisure is all about experiences. Discover how these experiences come to be. ![Een vrouw loopt langs een muur met graffiti](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/header_slider_default/public/2024-08/Slider%202%20bsc%20Leisure.jpg?h=790be497&itok=dQKcziLO) ### Vibrant places Contribute ideas on how to make cities attractive to both locals and tourists ![Hardlopers rennen in een hardloopwedstrijd](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/header_slider_default/public/2024-08/Slider%203%20bsc%20Leisure.jpg?h=fee4874d&itok=S0rRlZHW) ### An event for everyone Learn how to ensure that an event is a success for all parties involved ![Mensen bekijken een dinosaurus-skelet in een museum](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/header_slider_default/public/2024-08/Slider%204%20bsc%20Leisure.jpg?h=84ce2e78&itok=YFseAZw4) ### Constantly seeking innovation Brainstorm with us about innovating businesses, products and services in the leisure sector ![Student en docent in gesprek](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/header_slider_default/public/2025-06/Slider_item_bsc_leisure5.jpg?h=31803d42&itok=DzJys_2x) ### Small scale Accessible lecturers ensure personal attention ![Groep studenten poseert voor een kerk](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/header_slider_default/public/2025-06/Slider_item_bsc_leisure6.jpg?h=52d3fcb6&itok=deDaMq03) ### Discover the world Go on field trips and excursions in the Netherlands and abroad ## Study overview - [Years 1, 2 and 3](#tab-years-1-2-and-3) - [Teaching method](#tab-teaching-method) - [Study load and coaching](#tab-study-load-and-coaching) - [Field trips and excursions](#tab-field-trips-and-excursions) - [Academic (wo) versus professional (hbo) education](#tab-academic-wo-versus-professional-hbo-education) Below we explain what you can expect in each year. Year 1**Introduction to the core disciplines of the leisure field** In the first year, you will be introduced to the diversity of the field. You will study subjects such as sociology, anthropology and psychology, as well as economics and marketing. You will also work on your research skills and learn about methods, techniques and statistics. In some courses, the emphasis is on consumer perception from a social science perspective. Other modules focus more on the business side. You will learn how to put your knowledge into practice straight away. [Open first year curriculum in a .pdf](https://www.buas.nl/curriculum/BSc-Leisure-studies-year1.pdf) Year 2In the second year, you will strengthen your knowledge on what kinds of activities people choose in their leisure time, and how companies can organise those activities and profit from them. In addition to theoretical lectures, practical seminars, debates and case studies, you will work on several projects for commissioners from the leisure field. In these projects, you will apply the research techniques and theoretical insights learnt in the various courses. [Open second year curriculum in a .pdf](https://www.buas.nl/curriculum/BSc-Leisure-studies-year2-3.pdf) Year 3In the first half of this year (semester 5), you can opt for a work placement or a minor. For the minor, you put together your own set of subjects at another university in the Netherlands. It is also possible for you to attend the minor at one of our partner universities abroad. In the sixth and final semester, you will apply everything you have learned by: - considering leisure preferences, activities, networks and impacts from all angles. These leisure practices involve complex collaboration processes, for instance in the development of urban space and city culture; - considering leisure activities across different cultures; studying fundamental philosophical questions about the relevance of leisure and the ethical questions it raises; - investigating the contribution leisure can make to the development of urban space and city culture; - In the last semester, you will write a thesis, in which you will investigate a complex leisure issue. Topics for the bachelor's thesis can be connected to current research being conducted by members of staff. [Open third year curriculum in a .pdf](https://www.buas.nl/curriculum/BSc-Leisure-studies-year2-3.pdf) During the study Bachelor of Science Leisure Studies you can expect, among others, the following courses. Project Mixed MethodsIn this course, you work in groups on a research project that utilises a mix of research methods. This mix includes both qualitative techniques (interviews, participant observation) and quantitative techniques (surveys, statistics). For this research, you will write a short report, create a poster, and undergo an oral examinationa. An example of a research project conducted in this course is studying the social impact of the Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort on the local environment. Experience Measurement & DesignExperience is one of the key concepts in the realm of leisure. In this course, you will learn not only about the role of experience in the economy and society but also within individuals' lives. You will also learn what constitutes an experience and how to design leisure products to achieve the desired experience. Additionally, you will explore how to measure experiences during leisure activities using some of the latest research techniques, such as heart rate, skin conductance, and brain activity. Leisure and Making PlacesLeisure utilises spaces primarily for consumption but also contributes to the creation of places that significantly enhance the quality of the spatial environment. Therefore, leisure is considered an important pillar within placemaking. In this course, you will study placemaking from various theoretical perspectives. You will also visit several placemaking initiatives in the Netherlands and the surrounding area to firsthand experience how theory comes to life. [To video presentation](https://buas.webinargeek.com/on-demand-webinar-bachelor-of-science-leisure-studies) A number of teaching methods are used within the bachelor's programme in Leisure Studies. Given the academic nature of the programme, much of the teaching involves traditional lectures and independent study of academic literature such as books and articles. In addition, you will have seminars in which you work on assignments. Other teaching methods include preparing a personal portfolio, conducting research in project groups, participating in a debate, preparing and giving a presentation to fellow students and sometimes even presenting your own research to representatives from the leisure industry. The average study load for this programme amounts to approximately 40 hours a week, during 42 weeks. How many hours a week you actually spend on studying differs per week and depends greatly on the type of person you are. The last weeks of a term and the exam weeks are relatively busy. **Coaching** You can always contact your lecturers if you have any questions. The programme is characterised by a close-knit community of lecturers and students. A typical weekEach week is arranged differently. The number of days with classes varies from week to week. Below is an example of a typical week. **Monday** - 09.00 – 11.00 hrs: Lecture on the influence of cultures on leisure - 11.00 – 13.00 hrs: Seminar on statistics - 14.00 – 16.00 hrs: Lecture on the organisation of the leisure sector **Tuesday** - 10.00 – 12.00 hrs: Seminar on shopping area vacancy in the city centre - 14.00 – 16.00 hrs: LAB session on measuring emotions **Thursday** - 11.00 – 13.00 hrs: Group discussion on the application of psychology in leisure - 14.00 – 16.00 hrs: Lecture on how to increase sustainability at festivals **Wednesday and Friday** independent study (reading papers and books, preparing for examinations, and making assignments and reports) **Binding study recommendation** In the first year, you must earn at least 48 out of 60 credits to be allowed to progress to year 2. This gives you some flexibility if you struggle with a particular course, without having to drop out of the programme straight away. **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). In the Bachelor of Science Leisure Studies, you will go on a field trip. The location varies each time. Student Frank, for example, went to Cologne. ‘We had a cool study trip to Cologne in Germany. We engaged in cultural, educational and social activities. Among other things, we did a city scavenger hunt, climbed the Cologne Dom and spent a day at Phantasialand. The unique aspect of our field trip is that it is organised by students for students.’ Besides a study trip, you will also visit companies or locations you are doing assignments for, so that you get a better understanding of the situation. For example, you may work on an assignment for the Open Air Museum in Arnhem or the Spoorzone in Tilburg. ![Groepsfoto van studenten voor de dom van Keulen](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_groot_wysiwyg/public/2024-08/BLS%20excursies.jpg?h=874824da&itok=CQnvq1CX) Studying for a bachelor’s degree at an academic (wo) level is different from studying at a higher professional education (hbo) level. Here are the main differences explained: - In an academic programme, you will do more research than in a professional programme, and you will learn how to apply scientific theories and models. - The focus is on strategic roles involving analytical thinking and critical reflection, while a professional bachelor’s prepares you for operational or management positions. - You work individually on research reports and papers, whereas in a professional bachelor’s you mainly work together in project groups on practical assignments. - A professional programme focuses on a specific sector, while an academic programme makes you more employable as you learn to think and work from a broader perspective. ## What makes this study programme unique? ![Twee studenten in een studiezaal werken samen op een laptop](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/19_7_card_xl/public/2024-08/2022_006_Domain_Shoot_Tourism_PVR-16.jpg?h=f2fcf546&itok=sy2FvZCX) ### Only academic leisure programme in the Netherlands Leisure Studies is the only academic leisure-related degree programme in the Netherlands. [ Academic versus professional ](https://www.buas.nl/en/programmes/bachelor-of-science-leisure-studies/highlights) ![Een student wijst iets aan op een post-it](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/19_7_card_xl/public/2024-08/2021%20-SEM-IMA%20Workshop%20-%20PVR-61.jpg?h=750aaebb&itok=IhD3Cd9P) ### Teaching by real scientists You will be taught by leading scientists in the field of leisure and tourism, who are themselves active researchers. [ More about our researchers ](https://www.buas.nl/en/programmes/bachelor-of-science-leisure-studies/highlights#scientists) ![Mensen lopen door een drukke winkelstraat](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/19_7_card_xl/public/2024-08/Leisure%20-%20tourism%20crowding%20shutterstock%20301794965.jpg?h=0915ff39&itok=ZakJzoEm) ### Exchange or placement In your third year, you can do an exchange at one of our international partner universities or do a work placement. [ More about exchanges ](https://www.buas.nl/en/programmes/bachelor-of-science-leisure-studies/highlights#placement) ## Admission & application [What are the admission requirements? ](#accordion-what-are-the-admission-requirements-) To be admitted to this degree programme, you need a **pre-university education (vwo) diploma with an appropriate profile**, or [an equivalent of this Dutch diploma](https://www.buas.nl/documents/comparable-eductions.pdf). If you do not meet these requirements, you can have a look at the [options available](https://www.buas.nl/en/programmes/bachelor-science-leisure-studies/admission-requirements) to you. [Information about admission requirements](https://www.buas.nl/en/programmes/bachelor-science-leisure-studies/admission-requirements) [What does this study programme cost? ](#accordion-what-does-this-study-programme-cost-) In the academic year 2026-2027 the tuition fee for bachelor's programmes is €2,694. In addition, you should take extra costs for software, excursions, etc. into account. [Information about study costs](https://www.buas.nl/en/programmes/bachelor-science-leisure-studies/study-costs) [How can I apply? ](#accordion-how-can-i-apply-) If you meet the [admission requirements](https://www.buas.nl/en/programmes/bachelor-science-leisure-studies/admission-requirements), you can apply for this study programme. If you do so before **1 May**, you can certainly start your studies. [More information about applying](https://www.buas.nl/en/programmes/bachelor-science-leisure-studies/application-procedure) ## What others say about BSc Leisure Studies [leisure-events.buas.nl ](https://leisure-events.buas.nl/) ![Portretfoto van Frank](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/card_testimonial_avatar/public/Frank%20VRIJ%20web.jpg?h=7b0ed647&itok=_kWdrd9q) ### Research for one of the largest museums in the Netherlands The focus in this study programme is on academic skills. Thus, each subject has an assignment that challenges you to take yourself to the next level academically. You learn how to research and analyse… Read more complex issues in the leisure sector, and how to advise on them. I did a study for one of the largest museums in the Netherlands. That was about the guest experience and how many visitors like to come back.” Frank Third-year student ![Portretfoto van Wim Strijbosch](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/card_testimonial_avatar/public/Wim%20Strijbosch_0.jpg?h=2a479378&itok=Gm3ESA2D) ### I am mainly concerned with the psychology behind experiences As a researcher, I am mainly concerned with the psychology behind experiences. This knowledge is reflected in two courses I teach: Experience Measurement & Design and Statistics. I love passing on… Read more my passion for experiences and my knowledge about this to students. Generally, students are often less enthusiastic about statistics. However, I strive to make it simple and engaging by providing statistical examples that are directly related to leisure studies. This approach is highly appreciated. Wim Strijbosch Lecturer and researcher, Leisure Studies ![Portretfoto van Liesje Proveyer](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/card_testimonial_avatar/public/Testi_Liesje-Proveyer.jpg?h=48d043e4&itok=g6Os8l8h) ### I like to research why something happens The study programme teaches you about the backgrounds of leisure pursuits. The difference between professional and academic education is that the latter has a distinct research focus, whereas professional … Read more degree programmes are more about the practical aspects. I like to research why something happens; I am not so much interested in the organisational aspects of the leisure profession. After my studies I would like to go back to Aruba with the knowledge and experience leisure activities there. Liesje Proveyer from Aruba Graduate Bachelor of Science Leisure Studies, currently attending an academic master's programme at Radboud University [Read more about experiences from students and alumni](https://leisure-events.buas.nl/ "More experiences from students and alumni") ## Frequently asked questions [Is BUas a university? ](#accordion-is-buas-a-university-) BUas (Breda University of Applied Sciences) is a university of applied sciences that offers both hbo and wo study programmes. The Bachelor of Science Leisure Studies is an academic (wo) bachelor’s programme, not a professional (hbo) one. The difference between wo and hbo: - **wo:** focus on academic research, analytical thinking, and theoretical models. You work on research reports and papers individually; - **hbo:** more practice-based education with more group projects. A university diploma opens up more job opportunities from an academic perspective. [What is the difference between this BSc Leisure Studies and a hbo Leisure & Events Management? ](#accordion-what-is-the-difference-between-this-bsc-leisure-studies-and-a-hbo-leisure-events-management-) BSc Leisure Studies is a university programme focusing on research into leisure behaviour and why people do what they do in their spare time. Leisure & Events Management is a hbo programme focusing on organising and managing events and leisure concepts. BSc Leisure Studies takes three years; hbo Leisure & Events Management takes four years. **BSc Leisure Studies (wo):** - Focusing on research and analysis: why do people do what they do in their spare time?; - Doing courses like psychology, sociology, statistics, and academic research methods; - Writing papers, doing research, and analysing complex leisure problems; - Preparing for strategic positions, advisory roles or a master’s programme at a university. **Leisure & Events Management (hbo):** - Focusing on organising and managing: how to create events and experiences; - Practice-based: project management, marketing, experience design; - Working on real-life projects for festivals, theme parks and events; - Preparing for operational management positions in the leisure industry. Choose BSc Leisure Studies if you want to understand why people behave like they do. Choose Leisure & Events Management if you want to organise events and experiences. [How do we work together with Tilburg University? ](#accordion-how-do-we-work-together-with-tilburg-university-) BUas cooperates with the Department of Organizational Science at Tilburg University for the courses of Organization and Management Studies. This means that you will do one course in Tilburg, so you can also experience student life at the university there. You will do the rest of your studies on the BUas campus in Breda. [Can you work along this study programme? ](#accordion-can-you-work-along-this-study-programme-) Yes, you can work along the Bachelor of Science Leisure Studies, but you must have good planning skills. The study load is, on average, 40 hours a week, including about 15 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. ![Student bsc Leisure Studies](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/3_4_large/public/2025-10/Frank%20VRIJ%20%281%29.png?h=4ca98a21&itok=_gFqmMFk) ## Your future starts here - **The job market needs you** Explore your career options in the leisure industry - **Choose your path** Discover your potential - **Learn from the best** Graduates share their experiences [After your studies ](https://www.buas.nl/en/programmes/bachelor-science-leisure-studies/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: '5fa9332bb85072054da8caa1', domain: 'https://popcard.unibuddy.co/', title: 'Unibuddy Popcard', align: 'right', };