Bachelor Life Sciences

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

HAN University of Applied Sciences

Program Overview

The BSc Life Sciences at HAN University of Applied Sciences is designed for students who are interested in understanding living systems and applying scientific knowledge to solve real-world challenges in health, biotechnology, and biomedical research. It is based at the Nijmegen Campus, Netherlands, a well-established science and innovation hub focused on applied life sciences and professional training for the biomedical and biotechnology industries.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1: Students are introduced to the foundations of life sciences through core modules such as Cell Biology, Chemistry for Life Sciences, and Laboratory Skills and Safety. These courses help students understand biological processes at the cellular level while building essential practical laboratory competencies and scientific thinking skills.

Year 2: The second year focuses on applied biological and biomedical knowledge through subjects such as Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, and Biomedical Analysis Techniques. Students also work on Research Projects in Life Sciences, where they begin applying experimental methods to real scientific and industrial problems.

Year 3: In the final year, students specialise and deepen their expertise through modules like Applied Biotechnology, Advanced Biomedical Research Methods, and Bioinformatics and Data Analysis. The year also includes an Internship in Industry or Research, where students gain hands-on professional experience in laboratories, biotech companies, or research institutions.

Focus Areas: Cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, biomedical analysis, laboratory techniques, bioinformatics, applied research, and industrial life sciences applications.

Learning Outcomes: Graduates are able to perform laboratory research, analyse biological data, apply biotechnology techniques, conduct biomedical experiments, and contribute to research and development in life sciences, healthcare, and biotechnology sectors.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The programme is an applied sciences degree aligned with European Higher Education Area (EHEA) standards, preparing graduates for professional roles in biotechnology, biomedical laboratories, and applied research environments rather than purely academic research tracks.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): HAN University of Applied Sciences is recognised for strong vocational and industry-focused education in the Netherlands, with high graduate employability outcomes in applied sciences and strong regional industry connections.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At HAN University of Applied Sciences, the BSc Life Sciences programme is strongly practice-oriented, meaning you spend a large part of your studies working in real laboratory and research environments rather than only theoretical classrooms. Students build hands-on scientific skills through applied research projects, lab training, and collaboration with industry partners in biotechnology and biomedical fields, making the transition from study to professional work much smoother. Learning takes place in modern laboratories and research facilities where you work with real biological systems, data, and experimental setups in areas like molecular biology, biochemistry, and bioprocess technology:

  • HAN BioCentre (Research & Innovation Facility): Students work in applied research projects focused on biotechnology, bioprocessing, and bio-based innovations in collaboration with industry partners
  • Laboratory Practical Training: Extensive hands-on lab work in microbiology, molecular biology, cell culture, and analytical chemistry using professional scientific equipment
  • Applied Research Projects: Group-based projects where students solve real-world problems for companies in the life sciences and biotechnology sector
  • Internship (Work Placement): A mandatory professional internship where students gain industry experience in biotech companies, research institutes, or healthcare organisations
  • Group-Based Learning Projects: Collaborative assignments focused on solving scientific and technical challenges in life sciences, often linked to real industrial cases
  • Bioprocess & Biotechnology Facilities: Training in pilot-scale and industrially relevant processes such as fermentation, upstream/downstream processing, and bio-manufacturing techniques
  • Scientific Data Analysis Tools: Use of industry-relevant software for experimental data processing, reporting, and research documentation
  • Library & Digital Research Resources: Access to scientific journals, biotechnology databases, and research publications supporting independent and project-based study

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BSc Life Sciences at HAN University of Applied Sciences are well-prepared for careers in applied biological and biomedical sciences, particularly in laboratory-based research, diagnostics, and biotechnology industries. The programme develops practical, industry-focused skills that open pathways into roles such as Laboratory Technician, Research Assistant, Biomedical Analyst, and Quality Control Specialist in healthcare, pharmaceutical, and biotech organisations.

Progression & career support includes:

  • University Services for Employability: HAN Career Service provides personalised career coaching, CV and interview training, internship matching, and access to employer networks across Dutch life sciences and healthcare industries
  • Employment Stats & Salary Figures: Graduates in applied life sciences in the Netherlands typically earn a median starting salary range of €2,600 – €4,200 gross per month, with higher growth potential in pharmaceutical and biotech sectors
  • University–Industry Partnerships: Strong collaboration with regional hospitals, biotech companies, and research laboratories in the Netherlands supports internships, applied research projects, and workplace-based learning
  • Long-Term Accreditation Value: The degree is professionally oriented and recognised within the Dutch higher education system, providing strong employability in applied science roles and eligibility for international MSc progression pathways
  • Graduation Outcomes: Graduates develop strong laboratory competencies, analytical testing skills, microbiology expertise, biochemistry knowledge, and applied research abilities aligned with industry standards

Further Academic Progression: After completing this degree, students can continue into Master’s programmes such as Molecular Life Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Biotechnology, or related applied research MSc degrees at universities in the Netherlands and across Europe, with opportunities to advance into specialised laboratory research and R&D careers.

Program Key Stats

€10,940
€2,694

Febr Intake : 31st OctSept Intake : 1st Apr


Yes

Eligibility Criteria

BCC - ABB
3.3
30 - 36
70 - 85

1150 - 1350
24 - 30
6.0
80
75 - 88

Additional Information & Requirements

Country Requirements

Career Options

  • Life Scientist
  • Biomedical Scientist
  • Microbiologist
  • Geneticist
  • Environmental Scientist
  • Biotechnologist
  • Clinical Research Scientist
  • Pharmaceutical Research Scientist
  • Laboratory Technician
  • Research Associate

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