Listening, asking questions and soaking up the atmosphere at the Bachelor’s Open Day
So many interesting programmes, but which one suits me best? It was the Bachelor’s Open Day in Leiden and The Hague on Saturday 12 October. Among the many things to do in The Hague, prospective students could find out more about three new bachelor’s programmes: Science for Sustainable Societies, Cybersecurity & Cybercrime, and Economics & Society.
Prospective students trickle through the revolving doors of the Wijnhaven campus, some accompanied by a parent or a friend, others on their own. ‘Welcome!’ says a staff member in a bright blue suit. In the background, upbeat salsa music can be heard from the small café on the left.
Getting to know the city, building and programme
The question now for the visitors is whether to head straight up the stairs to the information market where they can ask questions about the different programmes here in The Hague and the study and student associations. They can pick up leaflets before attending a presentation in one of the lecture theatres.
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Narrowing down the options by asking lots of questions -
A first visit to a lecture theatre -
Parents also want to find out what the programmes have to offer -
Besides the serious questions and answers, there’s time for some fun too
New bachelor’s programmes
The three new bachelor's programmes – Science for Sustainable Societies, Cybersecurity & Cybercrime, and Economics & Society – have attracted quite some interest on the day say the staff answering questions on the information stalls. As soon as the doors opened prospective students and their parents have been asking questions like: What exactly does this programme entail? How does it differ from similar programmes? What are the entry requirements? And what kinds of job will they qualify you for?
These three programmes start in September 2025 and combine different disciplines. They will address major challenges such as how to tackle environmental issues and transitions, how to safeguard the Netherlands’ digital infrastructure and which economic plans could help fight climate change.
Kate Starodubtseva (17) from Enschede
‘I’ve just asked some questions about Science for Sustainable Societies. The programme seems like a good balance between science and social aspects. From what I’ve read on the university website, it sounds really interesting. Another programme that also appeals is Earth, Energy and Sustainability, a major at Leiden University College The Hague. Over the past few years, I’ve grown more worried about the environment, climate change and global population growth. I came here as a refugee from Ukraine two years ago. Perhaps in the future, I’ll be able to work for an organisation that deals with these issues and be able to help my country after the war. This open day is a great opportunity to look around and ask questions to students and teaching staff. I’ve now got a good idea of what to expect.’
Daniel (19) and Luca (17) Gunardi from Nieuw-Vennep
Daniel: ‘We’re about to attend the Cybersecurity & Cybercrime presentation. I also checked out Security Studies. I haven’t made up my mind yet; I’m crossing off the programmes I don’t like. My brother and I are looking at as many programmes as possible so we can compare them. I’m definitely interested in something to do with ICT.’
Luca: ‘I find computers fascinating, so I think I’ll end up choosing something to do with that. This is a convenient location, close to the station and not too far for us. The people we’ve spoken to have been friendly and helpful and have answered all our questions.’
Linde Thielen (15) from Venlo
‘I’ve just been to the Economics & Society presentation with my mum. The programme ties in well with my current Economics and Society profile. I really like economics and am also interested in societal issues and politics. I’m currently in my penultimate year of high school, so I haven’t made up my mind yet. Criminology in Leiden and Public Administration here in The Hague also appeal to me. I’ll definitely study in The Hague or Leiden. My sister is studying here as well, and I think it’s a nice, welcoming place.’
Tim Wiggemans (16) and Julian van Oostenrijk (17) from Amersfoort
Julian: ‘We’re still exploring our options, checking out different programmes and cities. I’ve just asked some questions about Economics & Society. What appeals to me is that it’s a broad programme – you train as an economist but there’s also a societal component. There’s lots you can do with it. I’ll definitely keep this programme in mind. I’m also planning to look at Business Studies and Public Administration. This university building looks nice and I like how well-organised this open day is. It’s clear where you need to be.’
Tim: ‘Economics & Society seems like a good option but I’m mainly considering Criminology in Leiden. I also like the Wijnhaven university building. It’s well-organised, and I’ve spoken to a few students who are positive about it. For both of us, it’s not just about the programme but also about whether we like the city and the building. It also helps if it’s easy to find accommodation or if we can carry on living at home.’
Julie Pronk (17) from Zoetermeer
‘I’m about to attend the Cybersecurity & Cybercrime presentation. I don’t know much about it yet, but it sounds really interesting. I took an online test on the university website that helps you find the right programme and of the ones it suggested, this one appealed to me most. You can do a lot with it; there’s plenty of work in the field. There are a few other programmes I’m interested in, like History in Leiden and doing pilot training. This open day is giving me a good impression. I think Wijnhaven looks really nice.’
When is the next Bachelor's Open Day? Saturday 1 March 2025: check out the programe.
Text: Thessa Lageman
Photos: Patrice Börger