Business studies remains a popular field worldwide. Graduates help organizations manage operations, improve processes, and develop efficient and sustainable workflows.
If you are interested in taking a business course but are unsure which institution to apply to, we have listed several respected business schools in the Netherlands below to help you start your career at a place that matches your interests.
Top Business Schools in the Netherlands
1. Erasmus University Rotterdam
The Rotterdam School of Management (RSM), the business school of Erasmus University Rotterdam, is one of the Netherlands’ most highly regarded business schools. In the 2025 ShanghaiRanking Global Ranking of Academic Subjects, Erasmus University Rotterdam is ranked 19th worldwide in Business Administration and 15th in Management. RSM also emphasizes international business education and gives students opportunities to connect with academic partners and organizations around the world.
RSM is committed to producing graduates who can make an impact not only in their field but also in society. Its students are encouraged to become a positive force for innovation, sustainability, and excellence in their future workplaces.
The school offers a three-year BSc in International Business Administration, specialized master’s programs that can typically be completed in one year, and the 18-month MSc International Management/CEMS. Its full-time PhD program in Management and Economics is fully funded and generally takes four to five years. RSM bachelor’s and master’s students can also participate in exchange programs with academic partners worldwide.
Through its research and its focus on responsible management education, this business school in the Netherlands aims to contribute to society locally and internationally.
2. University of Amsterdam
Amsterdam Business School is part of the University of Amsterdam Economics and Business at the University of Amsterdam. The school offers research-driven bachelor’s, master’s, executive, and PhD opportunities in areas such as business administration, analytics, finance, data science, and entrepreneurship. Its curriculum is designed to help students develop analytical, research, and professional skills for business careers.
The school is a holder of the “triple crown,” meaning that it is accredited by AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS. The University of Amsterdam offers a three-year bachelor’s program in Business Administration and a 60 ECTS, 12-month MSc Business Administration with several tracks. The Amsterdam MBA is also available as a 12-month full-time program, and PhD research opportunities are offered through Amsterdam Business School.
3. Maastricht University
The School of Business and Economics at Maastricht University uses Problem-Based Learning, an active approach in which students work in small groups to solve complex, real-world problems. This method emphasizes independent study, collaboration, critical thinking, and communication. The school also values international relations and has a large exchange network with partners around the world.
The school provides a variety of programs to meet the needs of its students, including a three-year BSc in International Business, one-year MSc specializations in International Business, and PhD opportunities in Economics and Business. It also offers Dual Degree programs that can lead to two academic degrees, as well as an International Triangle Programme in which students study at Maastricht University, Stellenbosch Business School, and Aston Business School. That International Triangle Programme takes 1.5 years and leads to an MSc International Business degree from Maastricht University School of Business and Economics plus an International Triangle Programme certificate.
4. Nyenrode Business University
Nyenrode Business University works to produce competent graduates while also developing students’ attitudes and character as responsible leaders and coworkers in the industry. As a result, the school is known for its personal approach to education.
In the Financial Times European Business Schools Ranking 2025, Nyenrode Business University was ranked 60th out of 100 European business schools. Nyenrode also states that its Open Executive Education programs ranked number one in the Netherlands in 2025 for the fourteenth consecutive year. Its Bachelor of Science in Business Administration is a three-year, full-time program offered in Amsterdam and Breukelen, and its full-time Master of Science in Management is a 16-month program. A variety of MBA programs are also available.
5. Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences
Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences (WUAS) is owned by the Stichting Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences Executive, while a separate advisory foundation oversees and advises the executive. The university’s main campus is in Apeldoorn, where it has two school locations, and it also has a study location in Amsterdam. Its programs focus mainly on business, management, hospitality, communication, entrepreneurship, and related fields.
WUAS maintains academic and research partnerships through networks such as Erasmus+, AACSB, and EFMD. These partnerships support international collaboration, student and staff mobility, research projects, and academic exchange opportunities.
This business-focused university of applied sciences confers degrees such as the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Master of Business Administration (MBA), and Master of Business Management (MBM). Its BBA pathways are generally completed in three to four years, while MBM and MBA programs are generally completed in 18 to 24 months.
A business degree awarded by a Dutch university can be valuable for future career opportunities. The universities mentioned above offer business-focused curricula, international exposure, and practical learning opportunities. Set your goals high and explore the Dutch institution that best matches your academic and professional plans.
We hope that this article on the Best Business Schools in the Netherlands was helpful. Make sure to also check out the Available Programs in Europe and Guide to Studying in the Netherlands to learn more about studying abroad.
