Computer Science course overview

During the first year, you acquire a strong foundation in the field of Computer Science and develop an in-depth understanding of programming and how hardware works. You work on projects in small teams and gain practical experience right from the start. Throughout the entire year, you are supported by your study career coach and lecturers, who help you to further develop your professional skills. 

Semester 1: Code Catalyst

The first semester will provide you with a solid basis in computer science, hardware and programming in C/C++. Gain your first experience with robotics through the BattleBots project which concludes with a Race Day with the robots competing against each other.

Semester 2: AI Odyssey

Take your first steps in the exciting world of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Understand the basics of programming in Python, familiarise yourself with AI concepts and unlock the potential of machine learning. Work on creating smart solutions and develop your own project to unleash your creative and innovative ideas for a better world, whether they concern health care institutions or sustainability practices. 

Subjects:

• Programming In C/C++ & Python 
• Applied mathematics
• Research
• Scrum
• Study Career coaching
• Computer science
• Hardware
• Software
• Electronics
• Dutch

Study load: 40% theory, 60% application | 60 ECTS per year

The second year includes practical projects in which you solve real-world problems using data science and computer vision. You work in teams on complex tasks, from data acquisition to model implementation, interacting with real datasets.

Semester 1: Data Dynamics

Delve into the core principles of extracting insights from vast datasets. The semester covers essential themes such as the integration of IoT devices, processing and analysing big data, understanding computer networks, and leveraging cloud solutions. Together, these technologies offer a rich learning experience in building intelligent and responsive digital systems.

Semester 2: Visionary Code

Offering in-depth specialisation into image acquisition, image processing, and pattern recognition using machine learning, this semester is your chance to apply your theoretical knowledge to real-life research projects with state-of-the-art equipment, such as a mini-supercomputer and 3D cameras. The curriculum includes image segmentation, deep learning, object detection, and SCRUM project management. 

Subjects:

• Analysing big data 
• Computer networks 
• Cloud solutions 
• Image segmentation 
• Deep learning 
• Object detection 
• Dutch 
• Professional skills

Study load: 40% theory, 60% application | 60 ECTS per year

The first half of your third year is spent gaining practical experience in the industry. When you return to classes after completing your internship, the focus lies on industrial topics. 

Semester 1: Tech Trailblazers

The first half of your third year is dedicated to your internship. You spend five months on an internship at a company of your choice, in the Netherlands or abroad. You arrange the internship yourself, but we have an extensive network of interesting companies where you could work on an exciting internship project and learn the ropes from an industry professional. You will gain firsthand experience in a professional setting and develop skills such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving and working independently.

If you’ve already turned your dream for your own business into a reality, you could consider doing your internship in your own start-up. The Center for Entrepreneurship at NHL Stenden can advise you on how to do this. 

Semester 2: Robotic Renaissance

This semester covers themes such as industrial automation and robotics, electrical and system engineering and smart sustainable manufacturing. You analyse industrial systems and implement adjustments for improvement, explore future automation possibilities, integrate subsystems and tackle both regional and worldwide robotic challenges.

Subjects:

• Electronics 
• Robotics 
• PLC programming 
• Written communication

60 ECTS per year

The fourth year revolves around you completing your studies. You get to expand your knowledge by taking a minor, and during your graduation internship, you demonstrate that you have become an industry professional. 

Semester 1: Minor subject (study abroad)

Semester 2: Capstone Connection

For your graduation internship, you will collaborate with a business or organisation to address an unsolved problem, conducting comprehensive research. This experience will allow you to showcase your professional skills, including teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and the ability to work independently. By successfully completing your graduation project, you prove that you are ready to enter the professional field.

60 ECTS per year