Howest University of Applied Sciences: what it's really like
Find out what it's like to study at a university with a strong focus on tech and design.
Howest is a Belgian university that offers cutting-edge bachelor’s programmes like Cybersecurity and Digital Design, but what is it like to study there? Use this guide to learn about its state-of-the-art facilities, accommodation, and industry internships.
Howest University of Applied Sciences at a glance:
| Founded | 1995 |
| Location | Brugge and Kortrijk |
| Undergraduate course length | Three years |
| Students | 11,000 students (1,250 international students) |
| Great for | Students who are tech savvy, creative, and who prefer a hands-on approach to their learning.
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| Not for | Students who are looking for big city life. |
What’s Howest University of Applied Sciences like?
Howest is known for its strong focus on tech and design. Our flagship Digital Arts and Entertainment programme, taught in English, has been ranked the best game design and development programme in the world three times by The Rookies. Our Industrial Design programme has also claimed the #1 spot in the industrial design category.
We offer a wide range of cutting-edge bachelor’s programmes like Cybersecurity, Digital Design and Development, and Creative Tech and AI. So far, students from over a hundred different nationalities have joined us. We’re proud to offer a diverse, international environment with plenty of opportunities for global exchange and personal growth.
‘My time abroad gave me so much insight into myself. It was the best decision I have ever taken. Howest was such a welcoming community, from the faculty and professors to my fellow students. The culture that Howest cultivates for its international students is nothing short of exceptional.’
- Jessica N. / USA / Industrial Product Design
What really sets Howest apart are the excellent internship opportunities, strong ties to the industry, and our hands-on teaching approach. They’re designed to make sure you’re ready to start working as soon as you graduate.
What accommodation options are available to students? Are these different for international students?
Howest offers several housing options in the cities of Kortrijk and Bruges, for both local and international students, including Erasmus students. Since spaces are limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis, it’s a good idea to apply as early as possible. Just keep in mind – you can only apply for housing after you’ve been accepted on a programme, and admissions are done on a rolling basis.
Most students choose to rent rooms privately, which usually costs similar to Howest’s own options. Students usually have single rooms, with either private or shared bathrooms, and the housing is non-catered – so you’ll do your own cooking.
What facilities does Howest have that make it stand out from other institutions?
One of the most exciting facilities is our state-of-the-art virtual production studio, part of the Digital Arts and Entertainment (DAE) programme. It merges the magic of filmmaking with the latest tech to create stunning visual effects and immersive worlds in real time.
Unlike traditional techniques, like rear projection or chroma keying, our studio uses real-time rendering so students can see their digital creations come to life instantly. It’s equipped with advanced LED screens and motion capture technology, creating a space where students and industry professionals can work together to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
‘Ever since I came to Kortrijk my life feels a lot more free compared to when I lived in Korea. I’ve been experiencing various things that I wouldn’t have been able to if I decided to stay in my country. The majority of people are welcoming and friendly. There is a decent amount of work that has to be done for classes, and it can be difficult sometimes to find the right balance between assignments and social life, but I believe the quality and quantity is reasonable. One thing I’m most happy about is the fact that I’m learning both in and out of classes.’
- Gunyoung L. / South Korea / DAE - Game Graphics Production
Do you offer any work placements or study abroad options for students?
At Howest, every student has two opportunities to go abroad for a long-term experience. You can spend one semester studying at one of our 200+ partner institutions, and another semester doing an internship abroad. If you study or do an internship within Europe, you can apply for an Erasmus grant to help with the costs. And there’s also some limited funding for going further abroad, for example to the US or Asia.
Beyond that, there are lots of short-term international opportunities too – like study trips to places such as China, India, Japan, the US, and the UK.
Every programme at Howest includes an internship as part of the three-year curriculum – usually a full semester in the final year. You’ll get plenty of support finding internships through things like internship fairs and industry networking days. Plus, you’ll get access to the Howest internship database, which features opportunities with both local and international companies.