Bachelor of Applied Computer Science

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Saxion University of Applied Sciences

Program Overview

The Bachelor in Applied Computer Science at Saxion University of Applied Sciences is designed for students who enjoy turning ideas into real digital solutions — from smart software applications to intelligent embedded systems. You’ll study programming, electronics, and system design through hands-on projects that prepare you to solve real-world technology challenges from day one.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

Your first year is all about building confidence in core computing skills. You’ll learn programming in C and C++, explore basic electronics, and understand network and system fundamentals, while working on small practical projects that show how software and hardware come together in real devices.

Year 2

In the second year, you strengthen your technical depth through algorithms and data structures, database systems, and digital electronics. Team projects become more central, helping you experience how professional software solutions are developed collaboratively in industry settings.

Year 3

By the third year, you begin shaping your own direction. You’ll dive into advanced topics such as embedded systems, computer vision, or digital signal processing, applying your knowledge in lab-based and project-driven learning that mirrors real engineering environments.

Year 4

Your final year brings everything together in a major graduation project, often connected to industry or applied research. You’ll design, build, and present a complete computing solution — a strong portfolio piece that demonstrates your readiness for the tech workplace.

Focus Areas

Programming, embedded systems, software engineering, electronics, networking, database systems, system architecture, and applied innovation.

Learning Outcomes

By graduation, you’ll be able to design and develop software and embedded solutions, solve complex technical problems, work confidently in multidisciplinary teams, and adapt quickly to new technologies in a fast-moving digital world.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

This is a professionally accredited Dutch applied sciences bachelor’s degree, designed to prepare graduates directly for industry roles or further postgraduate study.

Reputation (Employability & Industry Connection)

Saxion is one of the Netherlands’ leading Universities of Applied Sciences, known for strong industry partnerships, practical teaching, and graduates who are highly employable in IT and engineering sectors.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Saxion, you don’t just learn computer science — you practice it every day. From your first semester, you’ll work in modern teaching labs where theory immediately turns into hands-on application, whether you are coding software, programming embedded devices, or testing networked systems. Learning happens through doing: you collaborate in small groups, solve real technical challenges, and gradually build the confidence to design and develop complete technology solutions on your own.

Your practical learning experience comes to life through:

Dedicated computing and electronics labs, where you program, build, and test software and embedded systems in small-group practical sessions.
Project-based learning each year, working on real-world assignments that mirror how tech teams operate in industry.
Extensive programming practice, using languages such as C, C++ and C#, alongside tools for software design, networking, and embedded development.
Teamwork-driven education, where group projects help you develop communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills valued by employers.
Internship and industry exposure opportunities, allowing you to gain real workplace experience during your studies.
Career Services support, offering coaching, internship guidance, CV workshops, and networking with companies in the Dutch tech sector.

All of this is supported by Saxion’s wider student facilities — including study spaces, libraries, digital learning platforms, and technical support services that help you succeed throughout your degree.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from Applied Computer Science at Saxion means you won’t just leave with a degree — you’ll leave with the skills to step confidently into the tech industry. Saxion’s practical teaching approach ensures graduates are ready for real roles such as software developer, embedded systems engineer, IT consultant, or system designer, working in companies across the Netherlands and beyond. With strong industry links and career guidance built into your studies, you’ll be well supported in turning your education into a successful career.

Here’s how Saxion helps you move from classroom to career:

Dedicated Career Services, offering one-to-one coaching, CV and interview workshops, and employer networking events designed specifically to help Saxion students secure jobs.
Internship opportunities during your degree, giving you real workplace experience and professional contacts before you graduate.
Close collaboration with industry, where companies contribute to projects and assignments — meaning you work on real challenges, not just classroom exercises.
A professionally recognised applied sciences degree, respected by employers in the Netherlands and internationally for its practical, job-ready focus.
Strong graduate employability outcomes, as Saxion is known for producing industry-ready IT and engineering professionals.

Further Academic Progression:
After finishing your bachelor’s degree, you can continue into specialised master’s programmes in fields such as software engineering, data science, embedded systems, or information technology. Many graduates also pursue professional certifications in emerging technologies, allowing them to stay ahead in a fast-evolving digital world.