Competence based learning
Education at Van Hall Larenstein
Van Hall Larenstein is a unique university of applied sciences. Studying here means combining theory and practice, learning by doing: think of practical lessons, workshops, applied work placements and doing your thesis in the workfield. Basically, one minute you will be reading your books, and the next you will standing knee-high in the mud. That is the great thing about Van Hall Larenstein! Practice-based learning is at the centre of our education system. So we send you out into the real world. Literally! Naturally you will be tutored by teachers, who function as experts in their field of work and as project supervisors.

Employment-orientated education
During your study, your future job is of primary importance. To that effect we tailor your lessons, workshops and practical sessions to allow you to find out as much as possible about your future field of work. Van Hall Larenstein offers competence based education. This means that we teach you the competencies (consisting of knowledge, skills and attitude) that you will need to excel in your chosen career. Competence based learning means that you not only learn from books and lectures, but that you can put your knowledge to use in practical projects.
'Man is no island!' Therefore, one of the most important competencies is to learn to work in a team. The project teams in which you will be working to complete your project are mirrored closely on real-life scenarios from your chosen work field. This way, you will learn in practice, even when you are sitting in the "class room". Finally, at the end of your fourth year, you will be ready to start searching for your "dream job", the job for which you were educated.

What is expected of you in employment-orientated education?
Employment-orientated education means that the focus is on you: What do you want to become, what do you have to learn to get there and how do you go about doing that? This takes great effort, commitment and a positive attitude to learning. Studying at Van Hall Larenstein is all about taking the initiative, going the extra mile, learning that little bit more. Prepare yourself by reading a book, listening to others, and talking to the people in your chosen field of work. Do not just wait for someone to tell you what to do, but look and plan ahead!
Tutoring
At Van Hall Larenstein we are with you every step of the way! Our student support system means that you get different types of tutoring tailored to your study needs. During project work, or other major-specific parts of your program, you will be tutored or 'coached' by an expert in your chosen field of study. For career progression, personal development and learning how to make the most of time at Van Hall Larenstein, you will be assigned your own personal tutor. He or she will stay with you throughout your study, guiding and advising you to maximise your potential and help you on your way to a bright future.
[The educational program at Van Hall Larenstein is competence based. This means you will be trained, from day one, in the competencies vital for you to succeed in your chosen career. Teaching and learning is based on applying theoretical concepts in a practical context and real-life situations.You may be organising symposia in your major field or doing field-work and presenting your findings to actual clients. Naturally, our competent staff will guide and support you all the way! So, when graduating you will be ready to take on the world!]
Brochure 'Competent? Of course I am'