![Een groep toeristen bezoekt ruines in de bergen](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/header_slider_wide_desktop/public/BSc-Tourism2_hoofdbeeld2023_1600x450.jpg?h=56897dfe&itok=pgjICKAo) # Bachelor of Science Tourism #### Joint degree with Wageningen University & Research Bachelor 3 years Full-time English Wo-Bachelor Start 1 September 2026 - [Apply via WUR](https://www.wur.nl/en/education-programmes/bachelor/practical-information/apply-for-a-bachelors-programme.htm) ## Explore the potential of sustainable tourism **Are you curious about the social, environmental and economic impacts of tourism?** **Just consider the thousands of tourists who climb Peru's Machu Picchu every month.** **They bring a lot of prosperity but also put a strain on the local environment and population.** You will first study for two years in Breda and then one year at Wageningen University & Research. The BSc Tourism is unique as the only academic bachelor's programme in the Netherlands in the field of tourism. This programme combines economic, social and environmental sciences. You will work on research projects on sustainability, climate change, globalisation and well-being. This offers you a broad perspective and the chance to contribute to the future of tourism. ### Joint degree with Wageningen University & Research ![Logo van Wageningen University & Research](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/free_gemiddeld_wysiwyg/public/2024-02/logos-partners_0000s_0019_WUR.png?itok=E-xGqeSx) 1. #### No. 76-100 Worldwide GRAS / Shanghai ranking 2. #### Top rated programme Keuzegids 2025 3. #### No. 22 Worldwide QS World University Ranking Story: BSc Tourism Studies ### BUas Stories Click, swipe and explore this programme. [](https://stories.buas.nl/xOEkL0O?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. [ ## Campus Tour Plan your visit ](https://www.buas.nl/en/international-students/meet-us/campus-tour) [ ## Get ready for BUas - live Q&A sessions 1-3 June (Online) ](https://www.buas.nl/en/international-students/meet-us/get-ready-for-buas/live-qa) [See all events ](https://www.buas.nl/en/international-students/meet-us) ## What is the Bachelor of Science Tourism? ![Een man houdt een wereldbol van gras vast](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/header_slider_default/public/2024-07/BTO%20slider%201.jpg?h=caf26d13&itok=RoLqdxx3) ### Sustainable development Research and design solutions that contribute to sustainable tourism ![Fietsende mensen en mensen in het gras op de BUas campus](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/header_slider_default/public/2024-07/BTO%20slider%202.png?h=10d202d3&itok=R2Vgqn1n) ### Best of both worlds Joint degree from BUas and Wageningen University & Research ![Afgestudeerde studenten gooien hun afstudeerhoed in de lucht](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/header_slider_default/public/2024-07/BTO%20slider%203.jpg?h=c6ec388c&itok=6pmgx9XB) ### Academic programme The only academic bachelor’s programme in tourism in the Netherlands ![Een docent legt iets uit aan vijf studenten aan een tafel](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/header_slider_default/public/2024-07/BTO%20slider%204.jpg?h=d552a379&itok=GE4fjv3s) ### Small scale Focus on your personal development ![Een docent en twee studenten staan bij een wereldkaart](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/header_slider_default/public/2024-07/BTO%20slider%205.jpg?h=314a1887&itok=XkJ-SNdJ) ### International English-taught, international fieldwork and an optional exchange ![Twee jonge vrouwen kijken vanuit de deuropening van de trein over het perron](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/header_slider_default/public/2025-06/Slider_item_bto_brede_bachelor.jpg?h=3ec75680&itok=p1Bte56n) ### Broad-based bachelor’s programme Learn about tourism from an economic, environmental, behavioural, and spatial perspective [ ![Screenshot uit quiz](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/max_650x650/public/2025-09/Tourism_Quiz%20Interactives_900x1200pixels_DEF_ENG.png?h=309e12e8&itok=1stXzDjF) ](https://stories.buas.nl/BncQADp?embed=1) ## Do you want to make a difference in the world of travel and tourism? Discover if a Tourism programme is right for you with our quiz. - It only takes 3 minutes - Your result in seconds - Learn more about Tourism [Start the quiz ](https://stories.buas.nl/BncQADp?embed=1) ## Study overview - [Course content](#tab-course-content) - [Teaching method](#tab-teaching-method) - [Study load and coaching](#tab-study-load-and-coaching) - [Fieldwork and excursions](#tab-fieldwork-and-excursions) - [Academic (wo) versus professional (hbo) education](#tab-academic-wo-versus-professional-hbo-education) You will spend years 1 and 2 studying in Breda. In the first year, you will explore tourism from different perspectives. In the second year, you will deepen your knowledge of sustainable tourism development. You will also carry out a research project at an international destination. The third year takes place in Wageningen and consists of a minor of your choice and writing your thesis. More information about the study programme and its courses can be found in the [complete programme]() overview. Below we explain what to expect each year. Year 1 in BredaGet acquainted with the complex phenomenon of tourism. The first year is divided into two semesters. Below you can see some courses and themes covered in lecturers, webinars and practical assignments. - In **Tourism Principles & Practice** you will learn to see tourism as a complex system. This introductory module draws on various international examples and provides a framework for the rest of the programme. - Tourism and the environment are inextricably linked. In the **Environment & Tourism** module, you will study theories on biodiversity, land and water use, and climate, and investigate the effects on and through tourism. - The **Sociology & Tourism** module introduces you to concepts that allow you to unravel and understand social structures and processes that influence tourism behaviour. Just think of the influence of culture, family, religion, and social networks - No academic degree programme is complete without in-depth research courses. In the **Fundamentals of Research Design** module, you will lay the foundations of your research skills and learn how to prepare a sound research plan. Year 2 in BredaIn the second year, you will dive into the world of tourism development; planning and policy, governance and destination management, and cross-cultural studies. You will also continue to work on your academic skills and delve into philosophy of science and ethics in tourism. In the final semester of this year, you will explore opportunities for sustainable tourism development from different perspectives and disciplines. You will work for four weeks on an international research project where you will be challenged to look at how tourism developments can improve the quality of life at tourism destinations. This research will be conducted at a destination abroad. Read more about Naomi’s experience during her International Field Project [here](https://tourism.buas.nl/international-field-project-ifp-montenegro-naomi-de-kort)! Year 3 in WageningenIn the first semester of this year, you will choose a minor. Obviously, you choose something you are interested in. Or something that fits well with the master's you might want to pursue. Examples are a minor in international development issues, business administration or environmental sciences. It is also possible to complete your minor at another university in the Netherlands or abroad. In the final semester, you will choose two out of four modules in the areas of policy, environment, economics, socioeconomic security, innovation and sustainability. You will complete your academic bachelor’s degree with a thesis. For inspiration, take a look at the [list of former students’ theses](https://www.bsctourism.com/research/student-research/). ![](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/2024-08/BTO%20curriculum.jpg) During your studies, you will work in an international but small-scale learning community. Learning is an active and social process. Besides lectures, you work together with your fellow students in research projects on current issues with a focus on sustainable tourism development. Just think of the responsible expansion of an international airport or the development of tourism in the Biesbosch nature reserve. Excursions, fieldwork and guest lectures will show you how things work in practice. During your studies, you will gradually gain more independence as the programme progresses. This means that educational support in our learning community is most intensive in the first year and gradually decreases over the next two years. In the [online study guide](https://studyhandbook.wur.nl/studies/BTO?mainTab=bachelor&type=bachelor) you will find details on the teaching methods and testing for each subject. **Study load** The BSc Tourism is a full-time study programme with a study load of 38 to 40 hours per week. Of these, 15 to 18 hours per week are contact hours. You will spend the remaining time on independent study. The year consists of four terms. In each term, you will take three courses. Each course is timetabled on a fixed day of the week. In practice, this means that you attend education on campus three days a week. You can view the annual calendar and timetables for first- and second-year students on [this page](https://www.buas.nl/en/documents/bsc-tourism/year-schedule). A typical weekMonday - 15.00 - 18.00 Preparation for this week’s courses (reading articles) Tuesday - 11.00- 12.00 Lecture on the History of the European Union - 12.20- 13.00 Lecture on Governance Reform - 13.00- 13.45 Lunch break - 13.45- 14.00 Presentation of classmates on their group work - 14.00- 14.45 Workshop given by classmates on their group assignment - 14.45- 16.00 Working on your individual task for the group project Wednesday - 11.00- 13.30 Lecture on Descriptive Statistics - 13.30 – 14.00 Lunch break - 14.00- 15.00 Tutorial on the R Studio assignment - 15.00- 16.00 Time to work on R studio Thursday - 11.00- 12.00 Feedback on last week’s assignment - 12.00- 13.00 Lunch break - 13.00- 14.00 Lecture on Interpretive Phenomenological analysis (IPA) - 14.00- 15:00 Workshop on Interpretive Phenomenological analysis (IPA) Friday - 11.00- 11.30 Handing in notes/questions about an article for the group assignment - 14.00- 16.00 Working on group assignment **Coaching** Throughout the programme, you will receive specialist guidance from experienced lecturers from both BUas and WUR. Student Advisor Cristina is the first point of contact for all students. She can assist you with decision-making, overcoming study challenges, or addressing other issues. If needed, she will refer you to a student counsellor or a student psychologist. During your studies, you can also to attend optional masterclasses given by educational psychologist and motivational speaker Dr Martijn van der Spoel. In these inspiring lectures, he discusses common study obstacles and the skills and tools to overcome them. For example, study delays, motivation problems and how to focus on your studies. **Binding study recommendation** In the first year, you must earn at least 42 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). **Excursions** In the first year, there are several excursions, for example for the Tourism Principles and Practice course in the first semester, and for the Tourism Geography module in the second semester. There is also a ‘WUR Day’ where you get to know Wageningen and its campus. **Fieldwork** At BUas, study trips are called fieldwork. This means working in practice; not only studying theory in the classroom, but also applying your academic skills in challenging projects at the destination together with local organisations and communities. Learning by carrying out fieldwork in a cross-cultural environment is an indispensable experience and very valuable for your personal development and creativity. At the end of the **first** year, you will go on fieldwork for one week as part of the National Field Project course. In small groups, you will carry out a quantitative research project. The topic of this project is based on the current research agenda of the teaching team, and focuses on a specific aspect of tourism behaviour, such as media consumption, spending patterns, overtourism or happiness and well-being. There are also a number of excursions in the **second** year. And in the final term, you will undertake a four-week fieldwork project in a European destination (International Field Project). Together with your fellow students, you make a plan, and ‘slow travel’ to the destination. Once there, you will research whether and how tourism at the destination can contribute to a better quality of life. You will present your research findings to interested parties at the destination and suggest possible solutions. In this process, you will apply the knowledge and skills you have gained in previous semesters, particularly in the courses of Tourism Systems Analysis, Impactful Tourism Interventions and Cross Cultural Studies. Read more about Naomi's experience during her International Field Project [here](https://tourism.buas.nl/international-field-project-ifp-montenegro-naomi-de-kort)! 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 ![Groepsfoto van studenten en locals in Myanmar](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/19_7_card_xl/public/Eyecatcher%201%20Fieldtrips%20%281%29.JPG?h=5f62bdfc&itok=kbp3XiYZ) ### Field projects During your studies, you will work on inspiring research projects both at home and abroad. [ Read more ](https://www.buas.nl/en/programmes/bachelor-of-science-tourism/highlights) ![Vijf studenten lopen over de BUas campus](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/19_7_card_xl/public/Eyecatcher%202%20direct%20acces%20to%20MSc%20%281%29.jpg?h=c8e18b71&itok=X1RpBpax) ### Direct access to MSc! Earn an academic master’s degree within four or five years’ time! [ About the academic master ](https://www.buas.nl/en/programmes/bachelor-of-science-tourism/highlights#wo-master) ![Studenten rijden in een kar die wordt getrokken door koeien](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/19_7_card_xl/public/Eyecatcher%203%20Research%20project%20%281%29.jpg?h=d75df362&itok=7KAQtq9U) ### Challenging tourism research Work directly with leading researchers and develop valuable academic skills. [ About academic research ](https://www.buas.nl/en/programmes/bachelor-of-science-tourism/highlights#academic) ## Admission & application [What are the admission requirements?](#accordion-what-are-the-admission-requirements) The Bachelor of Science Tourism programme is offered jointly by Wageningen University and Breda University of Applied Sciences. [Application requirements](https://www.wur.nl/en/Education-Programmes/Bachelor/practical-information/Admission.htm) can be found on the Wageningen University website. [Information about admission requirements](https://www.wur.nl/en/education-programmes/bachelor/practical-information/apply-for-a-bachelors-programme.htm) [What does this study programme cost?](#accordion-what-does-this-study-programme-cost) 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. [Information about study costs](https://www.buas.nl/en/programmes/bachelor-science-tourism/study-costs) [How can I apply?](#accordion-how-can-i-apply) Application for and admission to this programme goes through Wageningen University. [Apply via WUR](https://www.wur.nl/en/education-programmes/bachelor/practical-information/apply-for-a-bachelors-programme.htm "Apply via WUR") ### Find out if Bachelor of Science Tourism suits you Do you want to know if Bachelor of Science Tourism is the right choice for you? Within five minutes you will find out if this study programme is the right fit for you! [Take the quiz](https://quiz.buas.nl/bachelors-in-tourism-and-hospitality-breda-university) ![Een jongen typt op zijn telefoon](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/max_650x650/public/2024-02/stappenplan%20ryan%20liggend.png?h=a9f9bbda&itok=7h4KMoc3) ## What others say about BSc Tourism [tourism.buas.nl ](https://tourism.buas.nl/) ![Portretfoto van Nyah](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/card_testimonial_avatar/public/2024-08/Nyah%20Go.jpg?h=0d088992&itok=tyBrc0ss) ### Only BUas offers a tourism study programme at university level l was surprised to learn that you can study tourism at university level. I soon discovered that BUas is the only university of applied sciences in the Netherlands that offers this option, which immediately made me curious! I may want to do something with e… Read more nvironmental studies and this academic bachelor's degree gives me a lot of options. One option I am strongly considering is the master's in Marine Protection and Development. Nyah Go Student ![Portretfoto van Indy Schumacher](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/card_testimonial_avatar/public/Testimonial_BTO_Indy%20Schumacher%20%281%29.JPG?h=2165f8ee&itok=izpfl33Q) ### A multidisciplinary approach to sustainable tourism development I work for Sea Going Green, which is a startup committed to reduce the negative impacts of tourism on the marine environment. I’m really grateful for the international experiences I had during the BSc Tourism. While working with international fellow … Read more students and during my field project in Indonesia, I learned a lot about intercultural communication. Working with multiple international partners and clients for me is a daily activity now. Indy Schumacher Graduate | Currently working as a Sustainable Tourism Consultant for Sea Going Green ![Portretfoto van Menno van IJssel](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/card_testimonial_avatar/public/2024-03/Menno%20Van%20Ijssel.jpg?h=9d0cf94b&itok=Bff_BvOu) ### I know how research works due to my academic background I chose an academic programme in tourism, obtained his Bachelor’s degree and Master of Science degree, and now works in the research department of the European Travel Commission. Our department supports members, such as the Netherlands Board of Tourism… Read more & Conventions, in developing a sustainable and competitive tourism and recreation industry in Europe. In my role as a project manager, I am responsible for ensuring that our members are supported in putting third-party research findings to use in practice. In particular, I check whether research is carried out properly and reports are readable. I am capable of making this translation very well, because I know how research works due to my academic background. Menno van IJssel Graduate | Works in the research department of the European Travel Commission [Read more about experiences from students and alumni](https://tourism.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 professional and academic programmes. The BSc Tourism is an academic (wo) bachelor's programme, not a professional (hbo) one. This is a joint degree: you will study in Breda in the first two years and in Wageningen in the third year. 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 with more group projects. A wo degree makes you more employable from an academic perspective. BUas works together with Wageningen University & Research, which ranks number 22 in the QS World Ranking. [What is the difference between this BSc Tourism and a hbo Tourism programme?](#accordion-what-is-the-difference-between-this-bsc-tourism-and-a-hbo-tourism-programme) The main difference lies in the depth of academic study and the focus of the programme. On a wo programme, you carry out much more research and apply theories to complex sustainability issues. Hbo programmes prepare you for operational or management roles. **BSc Tourism (wo):** - Strategic role with analytical thinking and critical reflection - Working on research reports and papers individually - Employable: economic perspective and perspectives of socio-scientific and environmental studies **Tourism programme (hbo):** - Practice-based cooperation in project groups - Focus on a specific sector (hospitality management, event organisation) - Operational or management role [How is the collaboration with WUR going? What is a joint degree?](#accordion-how-is-the-collaboration-with-wur-going-what-is-a-joint-degree) If you do the BSc Tourism, you will study at two top institutes for three years and receive one joint Bachelor of Science diploma: a joint degree of BUas and Wageningen University & Research. You will get the best of both worlds. Structure: - Years 1-2: at the BUas Campus in Breda - Year 3: at the WUR Campus in Wageningen - Lecturers of both universities will supervise you - One academic diploma recognised and signed by both institutes. Why this cooperation? - BUas: International focus on tourism and hospitality - WUR: Globally leading in sustainability and environmental sciences (number 22 in the QS World Ranking) The joint degree will give you access to wo master’s programmes and improve your prospects on the international job market. [Can you work along this study programme? ](#accordion-can-you-work-along-this-study-programme-) Yes, you can work along the Bachelor of Science Tourism, but you must have good planning skills. The study load is, on average, 40 hours a week, including about 15 to 18 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 Tourism ](https://www.buas.nl/sites/default/files/styles/3_4_large/public/2025-10/2024_SA_Nyah_Final%20VRIJ%20%281%29.png?h=f4eef391&itok=CKS5lKsb) ## Your future starts here - **The job market needs you** Explore your career options - **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-tourism/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: '5fa9332bb85072054da8ca94', domain: 'https://popcard.unibuddy.co/', title: 'Unibuddy Popcard', align: 'right', };