Propaedeutic phase
Regardless of which study programme you have chosen, the first phase of your studies will consist of passing your propaedeutic phase. In this phase you are usually offered subjects that provide an introduction to the main areas that will be addressed later in your studies. This gives you a good insight into the different components of your studies. To successfully pass your propaedeutic phase, you must obtain 60 credits in your first academic year. You will then move on to the main phase, or the advanced stage, of your studies.

Main phase
In the main phase, also known as the K-phase, you will look at the content of your study programme in greater depth.

Major/Minor
You must obtain 240 credits over a period of 4 years. This is a considerable number, but if you wish to follow a study programme at a higher professional institute you must expect a challenge. You will obtain most of the credits in your principal subject (major), which forms the basis for your study programme. In addition, you will also take 1 or 2 minors to make up the rest of the credits. Minors are optional subsidiary subjects that you take within or outside your study programme.

You can study your own field in greater depth, broaden your knowledge by studying a different field or prepare to move on to a continuation course.

Read more about minors.

Work placement
The work placement period is an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience. It provides you with an introduction to your future profession. The duration and location of your work placement varies for each study programme. Almost all programmes give you the option to carry out a work placement abroad. You can also take a look at 'Studying abroad'.

Graduation (also Student Administration Office--> Deregistration--> Graduation)
Searching for a work placement/graduation assignment.
Work placement agencies have been set up to help you to find a suitable work placement or graduation placement. You can contact them for advice.

Alumni
Registering as an alumnus on graduating gives you access to a broad network of contacts of which you may benefit. This can include vacancies (wanted and advertised), specific knowledge of other alumni, services provided by Avans University of Applied Sciences (continuation courses, access to the multimedia library, research projects by current students) or simply keeping in touch with your fellow students. Avans University of Applied Sciences considers it important to keep track of where you are working, as we are keen to ensure that the education we offer is as practically oriented as possible. And we prefer to do this in close cooperation with our former students.

Want to become an alumnus? Go via www.avans.nl to the study programme you have completed. You can register there.