Bachelor's in Music & Performing Arts in Europe

This program provides a forward-thinking education rooted in both jazz tradition and contemporary improvisation. Emphasizing individual development, students are encouraged to find their unique voice while gaining a broad perspective on jazz past and present. Ensemble performance plays a central role, supporting collaboration and practical learning. Students regularly participate in international projects and master classes, including initiatives like “Crossing Borders” and “North Star Big Band.” With guidance from internationally recognized musicians and diverse faculty, the program fosters both artistic growth and professional success.

Applicants must have completed secondary education (or higher), and their qualification documents must be provided in English. Originals must be presented upon arrival at the university. Proficiency in English is required for admission. Specific admission dates are determined by the institution and should be checked in advance.

This bachelor's program prepares students to become versatile, expressive dance artists, centering on each student's role as both dancer and creator. The program focuses on personal artistic growth, helping students discover and realize their full potential by developing technical, performative, and creative abilities in tandem, with a curriculum balanced between intensity and rest to build the tools and resilience needed to create new movement and artistic contexts.

Students engage with a broad spectrum of contemporary dance styles, cultures, and physical performance, learning to create performances and shape choreography that expresses their own story, while developing and articulating their individual artistic identity through performance. The program also emphasizes using the body responsibly and maintaining its wellbeing, alongside developing the ability to collaborate with artists from other disciplines and creative backgrounds.

The program attracts international talents in contemporary dance and performance known for their versatility, educating students to become distinctive dance artists who combine technical, creative, and performative mastery to create visceral, embodied experiences within theatrical environments over the course of the four-year program.

Admission is based on a multi-round process beginning with a video assignment submitted in an initial round, the results of which determine who advances to live audition rounds held in Arnhem. Specific eligibility criteria and assessment standards for the audition were not detailed in the material provided.

This bachelor's program connects the performing arts with contemporary visual arts, centering on dressing the body and the performative in response to the way theatre, performance, dance, opera, and film have increasingly merged into hybrid artistic forms combining multiple disciplines. Students learn to develop a clear design concept from personal inspiration or a text, using a variety of techniques to bring these ideas, concepts, and costumes to life, with an expectation that students engage seriously with social themes and the contemporary art world.

An extensive theoretical foundation supports students in developing a personal, critical perspective on the performing arts in all their forms, while a dedicated team of professionals active in various areas of contemporary performing arts provides supervision throughout. The program focuses on developing drawing skills, perception, visual communication, and the full range of profession-specific techniques needed to design and realize costumes, complemented by practical exercises in text analysis, dramaturgy, semiotics, character analysis, scenography, technical research, and collaborative work. The theoretical framework further includes research methodology, art history, art theory, techniques for analyzing theatre history, and the study of costume in film and costume history more broadly.

Through collaborative projects, internships, workshops, and practical exercises, students gain hands-on experience and a wide range of professional tools, preparing them to continue toward a master's degree centered on independent artistic research, in which a final graduation project is presented in a personal, professional manner within a multidisciplinary context spanning visual and performing arts. Graduates of the full program can go on to work as autonomous artists or as costume designers, seeking collaborations across the world of performing arts, live performance, film, and television.

Applicants need a secondary education diploma or equivalent qualification that provides access to higher education, with the specific accepted qualification depending on the applicant's country of education; applicants from the Netherlands need a VWO diploma or an HBO propaedeutic certificate, as a HAVO or MBO diploma does not provide access to the program, while applicants from other countries need a diploma recognized as providing access to university-level study in their home country. Applicants holding a Chinese diploma must additionally complete an APS screening in Beijing, both to verify their documents and to obtain a student visa.

Applicants must also demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the language of instruction at the B2 level. For Dutch, this can be shown by having completed at least one year of Dutch-language secondary education, having earned at least 60 credits in Dutch-language higher education, or holding a recognized B2-level language certificate; for English, this can be shown through certain qualifying diplomas from Dutch- or English-language secondary or higher education, or through an accepted language certificate such as IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge English, ITACE, or Pearson PTE Academic at the required minimum score.

Admission to the program is only possible after passing an artistic entrance exam, which begins with a digital pre-selection based on a submitted portfolio. Applicants who pass this pre-selection are invited to a multi-day artistic entrance exam, combining studio-based artistic assignments with a dedicated drawing assignment, which can be completed either in person or digitally, though in-person participation is recommended. The exam assesses the applicant's creativity and imagination, interest in general culture and in art, design, and visual culture specifically, drawing skills, and ability to express ideas both visually and verbally.

This bachelor's program offers an intensive, practice-based training in acting for both stage and screen, designed to develop well-rounded performers ready for the professional industry. In the first year, students work at a fast pace through challenging weekly performance briefs, rotating through cast and crew roles while experimenting with new scripts and a variety of directing styles. By the end of the first year, students will have developed foundational skills in acting technique, voice, and movement, and will have produced both a showreel and a live performance. The first year is also available as a standalone Higher Education Certificate. The second year shifts focus toward deeper, more ambitious work, where students form an acting company with their peers to collaboratively write, direct, and perform original productions, while refining their technical craft and building a stronger artistic identity.
In the final year, students take full creative ownership of their projects, developing original ideas from initial pitch through to final performance, with an emphasis on independence, audience engagement, and professional readiness. Graduates leave with a polished portfolio and showreel that reflect their individual artistic voice and growth throughout the program. Across all three years, the curriculum combines rigorous performance training with creative development and industry preparation, equipping students to build sustainable careers in film, theatre, and the broader performing arts.

To apply, students must have completed high school at a level that would normally allow university entry in their home country. Applicants who do not hold a formal qualification but have relevant professional or life experience may also be considered through a non-standard admissions route. All applicants must submit personal and educational information, proof of prior education, a portfolio, and a personal statement or audio/video introduction. Since the program is taught in English, a minimum proficiency of IELTS 6.0 (or B2 level) is required, which can be demonstrated through a recognized language certificate or a free online test offered by the institution.

This curriculum includes four fields: classical composition, electroacoustic composition, audiovisual composition, and recording arts. These areas support interdisciplinary creativity, offering students flexibility in mentorship and artistic direction. The program emphasizes practical experience through concerts, collaborations with national festivals, and access to high-level studios and recording facilities. Audiovisual composition bridges visual and sonic arts, while recording arts uniquely focus on classical, pop, and jazz recording. The program is globally connected, featuring international guests and culminating annually in the COMMUTE Festival.

Applicants must have completed high school or secondary education, with documents accepted in English. Original or certified copies must be presented upon arrival or sent to the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre (EAMT). A relevant portfolio of original works is also required as part of the application. Proof of English language proficiency is mandatory. Full admission details and deadlines are available on EAMT’s official website.

This bachelor's program trains musicians to become experienced pop professionals, offering intensive tuition designed to help students develop their own musical style and identity, whether as a performer, composer, producer, or entrepreneur. Students choose a main subject from options such as bass guitar, voice, drums, guitar, songwriting, keyboard, or creative production, and gain extensive stage experience by forming and performing in bands with fellow students, with opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaboration involving classical music, global music traditions, jazz, musical theater, dance, or circus arts.

The four-year curriculum begins with a broad introductory year in which students strengthen their instrumental or vocal skills, form a band and learn to write and record music together, study general music theory and history, and take introductory coursework in business as well as health and well-being topics such as hearing protection and vocal care. The second year brings greater independence, with a personalized program of major-subject classes tailored to each student's development, along with an introduction to teaching through practical experience such as coaching bands or giving lessons. In the third year, students gain more freedom to pursue minors or independent projects, expand their teaching experience through an internship and coursework in teaching methodology, and may complete an education minor that qualifies them to teach at music schools; this year also includes interdisciplinary projects with other departments, such as producing video clips or performances with circus arts students.

In the final year, students organize a self-managed final presentation, often a live performance, showcasing their artistic identity while independently handling elements such as repertoire, venue, and promotion, alongside writing a graduation paper. Graduates emerge as versatile musicians, makers, and entrepreneurs equipped to build varied careers, often combining performance in bands or as soloists with music production or teaching, supported by the extensive professional network they build with music industry professionals throughout their studies.

Applicants must hold a havo diploma, an mbo level 4 qualification, or an equivalent foreign certificate, with the specific subjects studied being of secondary importance. Applicants unable to meet this requirement may instead take a capacity test, at their own cost, to demonstrate sufficient general aptitude for the program. Admission requires a motivation letter, a musical CV documenting prior musical activity, and an online portfolio for pre-selection consisting of at least three video recordings in contrasting styles, each around four minutes long and preferably performed with a band; applicants to the creative production main subject instead submit a private Soundcloud link with at least three original tracks, preferably featuring self-recorded vocals.

Candidates who pass this pre-selection are invited to an entrance exam consisting of a practical component assessing talent and technical skill in the chosen main subject, a theoretical component testing music theory knowledge, and a motivation interview covering the applicant's goals and perspective on disciplinary and interdisciplinary work, offered to those deemed eligible after the practical exam. Because places are limited, meeting the admission standard does not guarantee immediate admission, and qualified candidates may be placed on a waiting list. Since the program is taught in English, applicants must also hold an IELTS Academic certificate with a minimum score of 5.5, or a comparable TOEFL or Cambridge First Certificate in English (FCE-C) qualification, unless they qualify for an exemption, such as having completed secondary education through the European or International Baccalaureate with English as the language of instruction and a passing grade in English, having completed secondary or tertiary education in a country where English is the official language of instruction, holding a qualifying secondary diploma with a passing grade in English from a defined list of European countries, or holding a Dutch mbo level 4, havo, or vwo diploma.

This bachelor's program trains dancers to become versatile, highly skilled contemporary dance artists ready to enter the international professional dance field. Delivered in English over four years and comprising 240 credit points, split between a one-year foundational phase of 60 credits and a three-year advanced phase of 180 credits, the course builds technical mastery in ballet alongside a broad range of contemporary techniques, including approaches associated with Graham, Laban, modern jazz, urban dance, and floorwork, complemented by conditioning work such as fitness training, yoga, and Pilates.

Alongside technical training, students develop as creative makers through drama, improvisation, and composition classes, choreographing and performing their own original work in the second and third years, and engage with contextual studies covering dance history, music theory, and a program addressing anatomy, injury prevention, nutrition, and performance psychology. A strong emphasis on entrepreneurship prepares students for professional practice through workshops, networking, career guidance, and skills such as writing a resume and building a personal website. Performance is central to the training throughout, with students gaining experience through regular productions, an annual touring program, and collaborations with guest choreographers and international dance companies.

In the final year, students undertake a full-season internship with a professional dance company or in a freelance production context, culminating in final examinations in both ballet and contemporary technique alongside a self-created solo performance. Graduates go on to work as dancers within established companies, as independent freelance artists collaborating with a range of choreographers, or in other dance-related professions, supported throughout their studies by close ties between the program and an international network of dance companies and festivals.

Applicants must hold a diploma at a minimum secondary or upper-secondary level equivalent to Dutch mbo level 4, havo, or vwo, or an equivalent foreign qualification, though the specific subjects studied are not a determining factor. Admission is granted exclusively through a mandatory audition assessing artistic and technical ability; prior dance training is considered beneficial but is not required and does not grant priority in admission. Applicants who cannot provide a qualifying diploma may instead take an entrance examination, at their own cost, to demonstrate sufficient general aptitude for the program; a passing result grants admission for one year only and must be achieved before the start of the academic year.

Since the program is taught in English, applicants must hold an IELTS Academic certificate with a minimum score of 5.5, or a comparable TOEFL or Cambridge First Certificate in English (FCE-C) qualification; those without a valid certificate or exemption must take an English test administered by the institution. Exemptions from this requirement apply to applicants who completed secondary education through the European Baccalaureate or International Baccalaureate with English as the language of instruction and a passing grade in English, those who completed secondary or tertiary education in a country where English is the official language of instruction, those holding a qualifying secondary diploma with a passing grade in English from a defined list of European countries, and those who hold a Dutch mbo level 4, havo, or vwo diploma.

This bachelor's program focuses on Jazz and Contemporary Music, combining instrumental or vocal training with ensemble work across diverse repertoires. Over three years, students develop technical skills, deepen their knowledge of jazz traditions and current practices, and explore areas such as ear training, jazz harmony, music history, and sound aesthetics. The program aims to cultivate each student's artistic identity while also emphasizing skills in self-management and communication for a professional music career.

In the final year, students can specialize, for example, in composition, and take part in themed ensembles ranging from classic jazz to modern fusion styles. The curriculum includes core subjects, practical projects, theory, interdisciplinary modules, and a master's orientation course, culminating in a public bachelor's concert and a written thesis. This program is required for those planning to continue into a master’s in Performance, Music Pedagogy, or Composition and Arrangement.

To apply for this bachelor's program, candidates must hold a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification such as a vocational or specialized baccalaureate. Exceptionally talented musicians may be admitted without meeting the standard academic requirements. Applicants must pass an entrance exam that includes a practical and theoretical part. The practical portion assesses improvisation, ensemble playing, and performance skills on a chosen instrument, while the theory section evaluates ear training, harmony, and rhythm abilities. A minimum score of 4 in both parts is required to pass, but passing the exam does not guarantee admission due to limited places. Candidates with strong musical skills but insufficient theory knowledge may be conditionally admitted.

Applicants must also demonstrate German language skills at level B2, as the program is taught in German. French language skills are not required. Foreign applicants need appropriate travel documents and may require a visa and health insurance. Facilities for the exam include professional rhythm section support and necessary musical equipment.

This bachelor's program prepares students for a professional career in music production, recording, and sound engineering through a hands-on, project-based curriculum. In the first year, students build a solid technical foundation by working with industry-standard tools, DAWs, and hardware, developing skills in recording, mixing, and production while applying concepts such as psychoacoustics and acoustics to shape their sound. The second year advances this expertise further, introducing large-scale studio work, mastering, synthesis, sampling, and emerging technologies including AI in music production, while helping students strengthen their artistic identity and critical listening abilities. The first year can also be completed as a standalone Higher Education Certificate for those who wish to begin with a shorter qualification.

By the final year, students take full creative ownership of an original project — from concept through to public release — developing the professional, leadership, and collaborative skills needed to launch a career in the contemporary music industry. Throughout the program, equal emphasis is placed on technical mastery and the development of a clear, distinctive creative voice, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to work as producers, recording engineers, or creative practitioners in today's music landscape.

To apply, students must have completed high school at a level that would normally allow university entry in their home country. Applicants who do not hold a formal qualification but have relevant professional or life experience may also be considered through a non-standard admissions route. All applicants must submit personal and educational information, proof of prior education, a portfolio, and a personal statement or audio/video introduction. Since the program is taught in English, a minimum proficiency of IELTS 6.0 (or B2 level) is required, which can be demonstrated through a recognized language certificate or a free online test offered by the institution.

This bachelor's program is designed for aspiring electronic music artists who want to develop both technical expertise and a strong artistic identity. Across three years of study, students build hands-on skills in recording, sequencing, synthesis, sampling, mixing, and mastering, while also exploring creative programming, instrument design, and live performance. The curriculum progresses from foundational practice in the first year — where students begin shaping their sound and building a portfolio — to more advanced technical and conceptual work in the second year, including custom instrument building, media-based composition, and performance systems design. The final year is centered on independent, self-directed projects that bring together artistic, technical, and critical skills developed throughout the program, with an emphasis on presenting finished work publicly and preparing for a professional career.
Beyond production skills, the program places strong importance on critical thinking, artistic reflection, and understanding electronic music within its cultural and industry contexts. Students learn to articulate their creative direction, collaborate across disciplines, and develop the organizational and professional skills needed to sustain an independent practice. Notably, the first year can also be completed as a standalone Higher Education Certificate, with the option to continue into the full degree upon successful completion.

To apply, students must have completed high school at a level that would normally allow university entry in their home country. Applicants who do not hold a formal qualification but have relevant professional or life experience may also be considered through a non-standard admissions route. All applicants must submit personal and educational information, proof of prior education, a portfolio, and a personal statement or audio/video introduction. Since the program is taught in English, a minimum proficiency of IELTS 6.0 (or B2 level) is required, which can be demonstrated through a recognized language certificate or a free online test offered by the institution.

This bachelor's program focuses on developing the skills needed for a professional career in classical music performance. It includes two specialization options: one centered on mastering a classical instrument, and another combining two main musical areas. Both tracks support personal artistic development, ensemble collaboration, and creative leadership in musical projects. The curriculum integrates instrumental training, music history, arranging, aural skills, performance, and outreach. Students also engage in concert production and complete a bachelor's thesis, gaining practical and theoretical knowledge vital for today’s evolving music landscape.

Admission to this bachelor's program requires meeting the Higher Education Entrance Qualification for international applicants, as outlined in Norway’s GSU list (https://hkdir.no/en/foreign-education/lists-and-databases/higher-education-entrance-qualification-gsu), along with certified English language proficiency. Candidates must also pass entrance examinations that assess music theory, aural skills, and performance ability on a main instrument. These evaluations may include a live audition or, for international applicants, a recorded performance and online assessments. Strong instrumental skills, basic knowledge in music theory and aural training, and familiarity with standard repertoire are essential for applicants.

This bachelor's program trains dancers to develop into creative, distinctive, high-level contemporary dance performers, drawing on a broad and diverse range of movement practices, from floor work and West African dance to contemporary ballet, partnering, and urban dance styles. Students connect this multi-genre practice to body studies and movement analysis, building physical awareness and understanding of the underlying principles of movement rather than simply executing choreography, while also studying the history, aesthetics, and cultural meaning of the dance genres they encounter and exploring current developments in contemporary dance and its dramaturgical approaches, both on stage and in public space.

The curriculum spans body and movement studies, including somatic techniques, movement analysis, experiential anatomy, yoga, and mindfulness; theater and performance work covering physical theater, voice, singing, speech, acting, and improvisation; creative work in composition, improvisation, repertoire, and interdisciplinary and intercultural projects, including self-created pieces; and theoretical study of dance history, performance analysis, critical and cultural studies, music analysis, anatomy, and the economics and entrepreneurship of the performing arts. Students also undertake individual and collaborative research projects and gain substantial stage experience through performances in open studios, the school theater, professional venues, and site-specific settings.

The first two years establish a solid technical and artistic foundation, while the third year allows students to shape their own path, choosing workshops led by guest choreographers, artists, and theorists, and performing in three productions: one led by a guest choreographer, one created with an interdisciplinary artist, and one of their own creation. In the fourth year, students complete an internship at a national or international dance company or within a freelance project, which may take place abroad, while also creating and organizing their own graduation performance.

Admission is based on a three-round audition process open to dancers from diverse cultural backgrounds who are seeking to develop their skills to a professional level within contemporary dance. Applicants first complete a pre-selection stage, choosing either a live audition in Amsterdam or a video submission; both formats require candidates to learn and perform two set technical dance phrases along with a short free solo showcasing their own style. Roughly 120 applicants advance from this stage to the first selection round, a two-day process involving a creative process led by a choreographer, technical dance classes, and interviews, from which around 50 candidates are chosen for a final selection round; the process concludes with 24 students being offered places in the first year of the program. Candidates who are accepted must also complete a mandatory physical screening before beginning their studies.