Nieuw Eyckholt 300
6419 DJ Heerlen
The Netherlands
Smart use of energy and materials - that’s what our bachelor track Circular Cities and Communities is all about. Think about it: we can reuse demolition waste to build new houses, and waste heat from a data center is perfect for heating homes… Our international programme will equip you with the skills and knowledge to develop green and sustainable solutions and help cities in transitioning to a circular economy.
This programme is part of our Dutch bachelor Built Environment. It's the one and only programme for circular building specialists in Europe. Employers are eager to hire these professionals as we aim for 100% circularity by 2050. So, let’s get started and create smart urban solutions!
We will work on developing a comprehensive understanding of managing resources like energy, water and CO2 in a circular way. You will learn to apply these principles in product design and urban planning. Key skills include:
You will also gain essential knowledge in the built environment, such as drawing. Professional skills, such as communication and co-operation, and research skills are emphasized to prepare for your future career.
Your week at Circular Cities & Communities is a mix of theory lessons and workshops where we train practical and technical skills. We work a lot in real-life situations. Together with local governments, businesses, and community organizations you will work on urban sustainability challenges. This gives you plenty of space to think creatively! Teamwork is, of course, very important. Each week starts with a new topic. In groups, you will explore that topic further for real clients! And if you get stuck, your teacher is happy to help.
You’ll be at school 5 days a week, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The lessons are scheduled at fixed times each week, which is helpful for planning your personal life as well. On average, you will spend about 40 hours per week on your studies.
Our programme welcomes students from all over the world and focuses on circular cities worldwide. You will work with classmates from different countries, making your learning experience richer and helping you see things from a global point of view. Classes are taught in English.
You'll be introduced to three key learning lines: circular flow, circular process, and circular design. Professional and research skills, as well as knowledge in the built environment (such as drawing) are also emphasized.
Block 1
We'll start with the basics of Circular Cities and Communities and focus on developing your professional skills, such as communication and co-operation.
Block 2
The focus is on circular flow: learning how to manage materials, water, energy, CO2, data and people within urban settings.
Block 3
We delve into the circular process. You'll learn how to:
Block 4
The focus shifts to circular design: we'll work on creating sustainable urban and product designs.
Your understanding of Circular Cities and Communities will grow as we tackle more complex and large-scale challenges. We will explore data-driven strategies to develop innovative and sustainable designs. Combining circular solutions with urban dynamics will create effective approaches to real-world problems. Along the way, you will refine your practical skills and strengthen your ability to work in an interdisciplinary way.
Now it's time to put your knowledge into practice in real-world settings:
In your final year, you'll continue to refine your expertise and prepare for your future career:
If you’re interested in creating greener, smarter cities and want to make a real impact on the environment, this track is for you.
A secondary school diploma equivalent to the Dutch levels (MBO-4, HAVO and VWO), e.g.:
English language
Mathematics
EQF level 4 diploma with mathematics up to and including the final year. If you do not meet these mathematics requirements you have to pass the OMPT test level C.
Immigration regulations
Do not forget to check the immigration regulations imposed by the Dutch authorities. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a visa for The Netherlands. This can be a time-consuming and expensive process. Therefore, start your application process well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Application deadline
Applications for enrolment should be in our possession before the deadline. They differ for EU- and Non-EU students:
Please check the requirements on our Dutch page
As a degree-seeking student you will have to pay annual tuition fees. Students from the EU pay the statutory tuition fees, and non-EU students pay the institutional tuition fees. Normally speaking, these fees are waived for exchange students from partner universities.
If you want to study at Zuyd, you first need to register via Studielink. This is the national application website for higher education in the Netherlands. Make sure you choose:
Graduating from the Circular Cities & Communities programme opens the door to many exciting and impactful career opportunities. You’ll become a leader in sustainable urban development, with the skills to transform cities into circular, eco-friendly communities. You’ll be ready for roles in urban planning, sustainability consulting, and more.
Here are some potential job roles you could pursue:
Lead and manage construction projects with a focus on sustainability, making sure that buildings and infrastructure are eco-friendly and use resources efficiently.
Set up and manage systems that improve energy efficiency and sustainability, like renewable energy setups and water recycling systems.
Design and create infrastructure projects that help build sustainable cities, such as roads, bridges, and public transportation systems.
Analyze data to improve sustainable practices and policies. Use your skills to help organizations and governments make smart, eco-friendly decisions.
Design buildings and structures that are both attractive and environmentally friendly. Focus on creating spaces that use fewer resources and are more sustainable.
Lead sustainability projects within organizations, helping them reduce their environmental impact and adopt eco-friendly practices in all areas.
Develop and improve processes in different industries to boost sustainability. Work on making manufacturing, energy production, and other areas more efficient and reducing waste.
Advise governments, businesses, and organizations on policies and strategies to support a circular economy. Help shape the future of sustainable city development with smart policymaking.