From Pre-Med to Law and the Arts: Design Your Future at Erasmus University College

As part of our ongoing exploration of European universities offering liberal arts and sciences degrees, the June 2025 edition of our Global College Spotlight takes us to the Netherlands. This month, we shine a light on one of the country’s distinctive university colleges: Erasmus University College (EUC) in Rotterdam.

EUC, the honors liberal arts and sciences program of Erasmus University, allows students to shape their own academic journeys within a close-knit, international learning community. Set in the vibrant heart of Rotterdam – one of Europe’s most forward-thinking and diverse cities – EUC combines academic rigor with hands-on learning and civic engagement.

In this article, you’ll discover what makes EUC such a compelling choice for international students, from its flexible curriculum and residential student life to its admissions process and areas of specialization. We also provide a quick introduction to the Dutch higher education system and offer the latest updates on what it means to study in the Netherlands today.

The Netherlands: A Welcome Destination for International Students

If you’re considering studying outside the U.S., the Netherlands is a destination that deserves your attention. With hundreds of English-taught bachelor’s programs across research universities and universities of applied sciences, a strong international community, and some of the highest English proficiency rates in Europe, it’s an ideal place for non-Dutch speakers to thrive.

Dutch universities are known for their academic rigor, affordability, and global outlook. Tuition for EU/EEA students typically ranges from €2,000 to €6,000 per year. For non-EU students, it’s higher but still significantly lower than most U.S. private institutions, ranging from €8,000 to €20,000 annually. Add in a lower cost of living, a robust student support network, and a one-year post-study work visa, and the Netherlands becomes a launchpad for both academic and professional success.

And then there’s the lifestyle. The country’s bike-friendly infrastructure, progressive social culture, and multicultural cities make everyday life both easy and enriching.

Understanding the Dutch Higher Education System

Before diving into Erasmus University College, it helps to understand the broader context. The Netherlands offers two main types of universities:

• Research Universities, like Erasmus University, are focused on academic theory and inquiry, designed to prepare students for further graduate study or research-based careers.

• Universities of Applied Sciences are geared more toward hands-on, professional training in specific career paths.

EUC belongs to a smaller, highly selective group within research universities: university colleges. These colleges follow the liberal arts and sciences model and are known for their academic flexibility, close-knit communities, and interdisciplinary approach.

You can learn more about the higher education system here: https://www.studyinholland.nl/education-system/dutch-institutions

What Sets University Colleges Like EUC Apart?

Imagine a college where you’re not locked into a single subject area from day one. At EUC, students begin with a broad foundation and then shape their own academic path across disciplines—from life sciences to economics, international law, or psychology.

Classes are small – usually no more than 25 students – which encourages active participation and personal interaction with faculty. The college uses Problem-Based Learning (PBL), a method where students work in small groups to collaboratively solve real-world issues. Rather than passively listening to lectures, students learn by doing, questioning, and engaging deeply with the material.

And the learning isn’t confined to the classroom. Located in central Rotterdam, EUC students work with local organizations on community projects, giving them a chance to apply their learning and make a real impact. More on EUC’s program here.

A Look Inside EUC: Curriculum, Tracks, and Learning Style

EUC offers students the ability to specialize in one of four major areas: Humanities, Social & Behavioural Sciences, Economics & Business, and Life Sciences. Within these tracks, students have considerable freedom to shape their coursework.

One standout feature is the Pre-Med track, which provides a solid foundation in the life sciences for students interested in pursuing medical studies after graduation. EUC has a close connection with Erasmus Medical Center and even reserves 24 spots for EUC students in its medical pre-master program—a competitive advantage not commonly found at other university colleges.

Another unique opportunity is the Rotterdam Arts and Sciences Lab (R.A.S.L.), where students can combine their liberal arts studies with a second degree from the Willem de Kooning Academy. Over five years, participants earn both an academic and an artistic degree with this Dual Degree – for the cost of just one tuition.

Living in Rotterdam: First-Year Housing and Student Life

The student experience at EUC begins in a purposefully designed way: all first-year students are guaranteed housing just steps from campus. Each student gets a private room with their own kitchenette and bathroom, but they also share communal spaces that help foster community.

This shared housing model supports the transition into university life by helping students quickly form friendships and settle into a rhythm of study and social life. After the first year, students move into private housing throughout Rotterdam, with guidance and support from EUC.

What You Need to Know About Applying to EUC

EUC is a selective college, and the admissions process reflects that. Applicants must first register through the centralized Studielink system and then submit a full application via EUC’s own portal.

Strong grades, a clear motivation letter, and a demonstrated interest in academic exploration are critical. For American high school students, the requirements are specific:

• A minimum GPA of 3.0
• At least 4 AP courses with scores of 3 or higher
• An AP Calculus AB or BC score of 3+, or a 70+ on the OMPT math entrance test
• No English proficiency test required if you hold a U.S. high school diploma

From Classroom to Career: What Comes After EUC?

EUC graduates don’t just leave with a degree—they leave with a strong sense of direction and a well-rounded skillset. Alumni go on to top master’s programs in the UK, Spain, and the U.S., or dive into careers in global business, international development, medicine, or public policy.

Research and internship opportunities are available to students who take initiative, and while EUC won’t hand-hold you, the support is there when you reach for it. Faculty and staff are highly approachable, and the college’s size makes it easy to build meaningful academic relationships.

An Evolving Educational Landscape in the Netherlands

You may have read recent headlines about the Dutch government reevaluating the structure of international education. While changes are being discussed—such as limiting enrollment in certain over-subscribed programs or increasing Dutch language support—university colleges like EUC are not affected.

That’s because these programs are intentionally small, academically rigorous, and already selective. In short, they’re not contributing to the overcrowding issues affecting some larger programs.

So for now, and the foreseeable future, the Netherlands remains one of the most welcoming destinations in Europe for international students.

Is EUC the Right Fit for You?

If you’re a globally curious student looking for more than a traditional classroom experience, Erasmus University College might just be the place for you. It offers the intellectual freedom of a liberal arts education, the rigor of a research university, and the personal attention of a close-knit community.

Whether you dream of studying medicine, exploring international law, diving into economics, or combining your academic interests with the arts, EUC gives you the tools and flexibility to design your future.

Watch the full webinar with EUC – Erasmus University College in Rotterdam below:

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