Globally known for its cultural attractions, vibrant nightlife, delicious waffles and chocolate, and love for football, Belgium is also famous among international students because of its top universities’ high-quality education and research. The opportunity to learn and become fluent in at least one of its three languages, German, French, and Dutch, adds to the many reasons the nation attracts numerous overseas learners.
Studying in Belgium will allow you to explore other European cities by train, such as Paris, Amsterdam, and London. Pursuing a degree here also has several advantages because it excels in several fields, but knowing which ones stand out is essential. Listed below are some of the best subjects to study in the country.
Top Courses to Study in Belgium
1. Medicine
Medicine is among the best subjects to study in Belgium because of its medical schools’ top-notch quality of education. Studying this field in the country also takes shorter than medical programs in other nations. Its students must only complete a bachelor’s and master’s degree for three years each, making it six instead of the European standard of seven years.
Scholarships are also available to international students interested in medical programs at the country’s top universities. They provide a global perspective in this field and promote international collaboration among students, research organizations, and medical professionals from countries within and outside Europe.
Students can also gain international experience through exchange programs and internships in partner universities and hospitals overseas. Some of the best medical schools in Belgium are Ghent University, the University of Liege, the Catholic University of Louvain, and the University of Antwerp.
2. Political Science
Belgium is a federal constitutional monarchy with a complex political system. It is also considered one of the most politically stable countries in Europe. The country ranks high in several stability indicators, such as the rule of law, free and fair elections, media freedom, and protection of human rights.
A political science degree from a Belgian university will open numerous career opportunities in different fields, such as public service, research, academia, law, etc. You can also take what you have learned from the things that have worked in the political system and share and apply what you have learned to your home country.
Political science programs in Belgium use a variety of learning approaches to develop students’ critical thinking, analytical, communication, and leadership skills. Students are provided with a strong knowledge of political theories and concepts, which they are then expected to apply in different practical activities such as debates, presentations, and lobbying and negotiation simulations.
The University of Namur, Hasselt University, KU Leuven, and Ghent University are among the best universities in Belgium for pursuing a political science degree.
3. Metallurgical Engineering
Belgium’s metal and steel industry is vital to the country’s economy. Every year, millions of metric tons of metal and steel are exported from Belgium to over 100 countries. The nation is also home to several metal production companies and suppliers, which offer a good training ground for aspiring engineers in the industry.
Due to its highly specialized nature, metallurgical engineering is one of the highest-paid and in-demand professions in the country. This engineering specialization is an excellent subject to learn about in Belgium, where students learn about all the processes involved in transforming metals into materials and products that help make life easier and better for society.
Programs are interdisciplinary and include lessons and training in entrepreneurship and innovation to instill a global mindset in their students and make them globally competitive and well-rounded professionals. Some leading universities that provide programs in this field are the University of Antwerp, the University of Mons, the Free University of Brussels, and the University of Namur.
4. Visual Arts
Belgium is one of the top destinations for art students and enthusiasts worldwide because of its art galleries and museums, such as the René Magritte Museum, the Rubens House, and the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium. With its long and rich artistic heritage, it is known for producing several world-famous artists such as Peter Paul Rubens, René Magritte, and Anthony van Dyck. At present, the country is still home to a large number of contemporary painters, sculptors, and graffiti artists.
Its visual arts programs offer a fusion of theory and practice. They cover lessons in art history, art theory, and art interpretation. Students also spend lots of time in studios working on their portfolios and carrying out various collaborative projects with professional artists. KU Leuven and LUCA School of Arts are some of the best art institutions in this field.
5. Geography
Geography, the study of different physical, environmental, and social phenomena, is another field in which Belgium excels. In 1876, several geographical societies emerged, particularly in the cities of Antwerp and Brussels, where geographers collaborated to conduct research and projects for the benefit and development of Belgian society.
With internationally recognized programs for their excellent education and significant contributions to geographical research, geography is among Belgium’s best subjects. Universities in this country offer multidisciplinary geography programs, covering both physical and social sciences, and tackle the most pressing global issues, such as climate change and overpopulation.
Several collaborations with research groups and public and private organizations also allow students to gain relevant experience in dealing with real-world problems. Some of Belgium’s top-rated universities offering outstanding geography programs include the University of Liege, the Catholic University of Louvain, and the Free University of Brussels.
It’s essential to learn which subjects are best to take in Belgium so that you can choose which will benefit you the most once you pursue one. The country provides the best field of studies in medicine, political science, geography, visual arts, and even unique metallurgical engineering. More information is listed above if you’re interested in one of these study areas!
We hope you found this article on the best subjects to study in Belgium informative and helpful. Also, make sure to check out the Belgium Page and some of the Available Programs in Europe for International Students for more information about studying in this country and in Europe!
