HAN University

What you'll study

This programme combines computer science, electronic engineering and systems engineering to give you the skills to develop embedded devices and real-time systems. Teaching is project-based and laboratory-focused, with a strong emphasis on practical implementation and integration.

• Foundations: digital and analogue electronics, circuit design, signal processing, control systems and mathematics for engineers.
• Programming and software: C and C++ for embedded systems, scripting languages for tooling, software architecture, debugging techniques and unit testing.
• Microcontrollers and hardware platforms: ARM and other common microcontroller families, peripherals, interfacing, ADC/DAC, power management and PCB prototyping.
• Real-time systems and operating systems: RTOS concepts, scheduling, resource management and embedded Linux for higher-level devices.
• Communications and networking: serial protocols (UART, SPI, I2C), field buses and automotive CAN, Ethernet, wireless technologies and IoT protocols.
• Systems engineering and integration: requirements engineering, modelling, system architecture, verification and validation, and multidisciplinary project coordination.
• Security and reliability: basic embedded security, fault analysis, safety standards and testing methodologies relevant to safety-critical domains.
• Design and fabrication: PCB layout fundamentals, sensor integration, actuator control and hands-on prototyping in electronics and mechatronics workshops.
• Professional skills and projects: teamwork, project management, technical reporting and a sequence of applied projects culminating in an individual or group bachelor project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a secondary education diploma equivalent to the Dutch pre-university or senior general level with a strong background in mathematics. Prior knowledge of physics and basic programming is advantageous. International applicants normally need to demonstrate English proficiency if the programme is offered in English (for example through recognised tests) and provide certified secondary school transcripts.

HAN may require a motivation statement, an interview or an assessment to check technical suitability and interest in hands-on engineering. Specific institutional entry procedures and recognised international equivalents should be confirmed with HAN's admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles at the intersection of hardware and software. Typical job titles include:

• Embedded Systems Engineer / Firmware Engineer
• IoT Engineer or Connectivity Engineer
• Hardware Designer or PCB Designer
• Systems Integrator and Test Engineer
• Automation and Control Engineer
• R&D Engineer in sectors such as automotive, medical devices, industrial automation, consumer electronics, aerospace and energy

Graduates also have routes into specialist roles in cybersecurity for embedded devices, product development teams, or further study at the master’s level in embedded systems, robotics, control engineering or related fields.

Why study at HAN University

HAN University of Applied Sciences focuses on applied, practice-led education that prepares students for immediate industry contribution. The Embedded Systems Engineering programme is delivered with modern labs, prototyping facilities and access to industry-standard toolchains so students can move directly from theory to build and test phases.

• Project-based learning: industry-linked projects and multidisciplinary collaboration mirror professional engineering workflows.
• Strong industry ties: partnerships and internship opportunities with regional and national companies help students gain practical experience and employment contacts.
• Hands-on facilities: electronics workshops, measurement equipment, embedded toolchains and rapid-prototyping resources support applied learning.
• Career support: guidance on internships, job placement and soft skills development to help graduates transition into engineering roles.

Prospective students should contact HAN University directly for details on language of instruction, specific admission steps and available study support services.