Thomas More University of Applied Sciences Summary
Thomas More University of Applied Sciences is one of the largest universities of applied sciences in Flanders, Belgium. It is known for professional education, practical learning, career-oriented programs, applied research, international degrees, strong student support and campuses across several Belgian cities, including Mechelen, Antwerp, Geel, Turnhout, Sint-Katelijne-Waver, Lier and other locations depending on program. The institution focuses on preparing students for employment through applied bachelor’s degrees, graduate programs, postgraduate certificates and professional training. Thomas More is especially attractive for students who want practical higher education instead of a traditional research university route. Its programs are designed around workplace skills, internships, project-based learning, industry needs and professional readiness. This makes it suitable for students who want to enter careers in business, communication, media, tourism, technology, IT, design, healthcare, logistics, education, social work, life sciences, agriculture, international business and applied digital fields. At undergraduate level, Thomas More offers several English-taught bachelor’s programs for international students. Programs may include International Business and Trade, Business and Management, International Communication and Media, Applied Computer Science, Digital Experience Design, Tourism and Leisure, Electronics and ICT, Automotive Technology, International Journalism, International Teacher Education and other applied fields depending on campus and academic year. Many other programs are Dutch-taught and require Dutch language proficiency. At postgraduate level, Thomas More offers specialized postgraduate programs in practical fields such as Space and Service Design, Pharma and Healthcare Logistics, Global Supply Chain Management, Cybersecurity, Digital Business, International Healthcare-related study, and other professional areas depending on current portfolio. These programs are usually shorter and more career-focused than traditional academic master’s degrees. Thomas More is not primarily a doctoral research university. Its strength is applied education and professional preparation. Students seeking PhD study should normally progress from Thomas More into a research university master’s program and then apply for doctoral education at a university. However, Thomas More participates in applied research through research groups, innovation projects and partnerships with industry and society. Tuition fees depend on EEA or non-EEA status, intake, program and credit load. For degree programs in 2026–2027, EEA students and qualifying non-EEA residents pay a fixed cost of €305.40 plus credit-based costs. For a fall intake with 60 credits, the total listed registration cost is €1,181.40. For non-EEA students who need a student visa, the degree-program fee includes a fixed cost of €4,800 plus credit-based components. Postgraduate fees vary by program; for example, Pharma and Healthcare Logistics lists €4,000 for EEA candidates and qualifying non-EEA residents, and €5,500 for non-EEA candidates requiring a student visa. Overall, Thomas More University of Applied Sciences is best for students who want career-focused Belgian higher education, English-taught applied bachelor’s programs, practical internships, industry-linked learning and pathways into business, IT, communication, tourism, design, healthcare logistics, technology, education and applied professional careers.
