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Applied Computer Science
This programme prepares you to understand, apply, and critically shape the technological landscape of the future. You develop a solid foundation in programming, software development, and innovation, while choosing from specialised tracks that teach you how to train and deploy AI systems effectively. Other tracks focus on domains where human expertise remains essential, such as IT infrastructure and cybersecurity. Through hands-on projects, collaborative learning, and strong industry engagement, you graduate equipped with the confidence, creativity, and technical insight needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
Thinking of starting the programme in September 2026?
- Register via the link below, to be invited to our upcoming online info events.
- Watch our Webinar Recording for more info about the programme
Bachelor degree Applied Computer Science
Welcome to the home of the moving minds!
This hands-on programme prepares you to envision, create, optimise and deploy new software. You can hone your creative and communicative skills in a modern learning environment.
Technology has a lot to offer in our ever-changing world. You also get to experience working in tight-knit groups within the lively student atmosphere of Leuven, Europe’s Capital of Innovation.
Who are you?
- You think logically
- You are curious to figure out how things work
- You like to tackle challenges
- You want to automate the boring stuff
- You like star trek or star wars but definitely not both - or you prefer spending your time on Twitch
- You look forward to interesting job opportunities
- You keep up with the latest in technology
What can you expect?
Through instant practical applications based on current theoretical frameworks, you’ll learn industry-proof approaches to solving problems. Our lecturers are always ready to help and the atmosphere is open and - we dare say - even fun!
Our enthusiastic teaching staff and dedicated study coaches guide you throughout your individual learning journey. You receive academic coaching to support your study progress, as well as personal coaching that helps you navigate life outside the classroom. From the moment you are admitted until you secure your first job, a student journey officer is there to assist you with practical, administrative, and career-related questions.
A degree in IT gives you a ticket to various jobs, immediately upon graduation. Some even get job offers in advance! With the international programme, you also are ready to launch an international career.
More interested in continuing to study and going for a master's? No problem! With a one-year bridging programme you have immediate access to various university Master programmes.
With a lively cultural, sports and international community - you will be able to enjoy the renowned student life that Leuven has to offer. You also gain access to a large international network in a renowned college university with top-notch student services.
Our students are also frequent visitors of KU Leuven’s PANGEA, a cozy meeting spot for international students.
- Software Development
- Business IT Management
- IT Infrastructure
- Cybersecurity
- Digital Experience
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
In Leuven, Europe’s Capital of Innovation, the modern buzz of the future will be all around you. You’ll study at a modern campus In the Heart of Leuven's Business District, just a stone's throw from the vibrant City Center. With our campus nestled in nature and close to industry, you’ll ignite your innovative spirit in no time!
Study programme Applied Computer Science
Practical, real-life experience is built right into this study programme
You’ll become quickly acquainted with the IT world via cases, projects, company visits, and internship opportunities, both in Belgium and abroad.
International opportunities include project week visits, semester study exchange, or an international internship. Have a look at the courses included in the programme:
Types of courses
For all students. These core courses provide students with a thorough foundation in the domains of software development, system and network management, databases and data analytics, business IT, and cybersecurity.
Students can choose advanced electives from Software Development, Business IT Management, Infrastructure, Cybersecurity, Digital Experience, and Artificial Intelligence. Or if you cannot choose you can Allround.
Over the course of this 3 year programme, students learn to work on projects in international teams both in the school and on the work floor.
Courses introducing the Dutch language and Belgian (work) culture will be organised for international students.
Study programme: classes
You can find a detailed overview of the programme via this link:
You do not need to have previous knowledge on it or programming to join. This programme starts with basic principles of IT and transforms you to an IT business professional.
You do need to have graduated high school in order to join.
If you have already taken any courses similar to those you will learn with us in higher education (a university of applied sciences or a university), you may be eligible for exemptions.
If you believe this may be the case, please contact our student coaches. They will discuss the possibilities with you.
You can also opt for additional coaching via our study and language coaches. Student services is also ready to support you in everything from looking for housing to discounts to cultural events. We've got your back! Your chance to succeed is therefore largely dependent on your drive and willingness to learn.
Contact us
Information request
- Our student coaches are happy to help you with any questions concerning content or exemptions.
(If your name starts with A-L: contact Kristien Melaerts | M-Z: Contact Griet Barrezeele) - For general questions about the programme you can contact bcs@ucll.be
- For a general FAQ on international studies at ucll, check this page
- For admission questions (practical info on application): please check the admission requirements & procedure
Innovative projects
Joining this programme also allows you to participate in many innovative and inspiring projects. One example of such a project is the AI-oriented matchdata week, in which students analysed real data for soccer club OH Leuven.
Campus Connect
The location of the campuses of UCLL are in the immediate proximity of relevant businesses to stimulate collaboration in terms of education, research and services. Our university college also creates opportunities for lifelong learning, since it's located at a research and business park.
If you wish to find out quickly how you can reach campus Connect, you can download the M-App. This will provide you with customised and realtime advice to reach the campuses in Leuven.
- the Applied Computer Science programme
- the Business Management programme
- the Office Management programmes
- the Adult Education classes and newly home to UCLL's 'graduate' classes (Associated degree programmes)
- General Services of UCLL.
Job opportunities
Every organisation needs computer science specialists, providing you with a wide array of job opportunities to choose from. It’s up to you if you want to work in a huge multinational IT firm, a small local start-up, a professional sports team, or a non-profit close to your heart. In many cases, a career in IT also includes perks like remote and flexible working conditions, which can improve your work-life balance.
When you graduate with a ACS degree, you’ll be prepared to work as a cybersecurity specialist, software developer, business analyst, system administrator, system engineer, IT consultant, data engineer, and beyond!
Continuing your studies
Your degree will allow you persue master (in some cases after a bridging programme) at any university.
Have a look at the English-spoken options at UCLL:
- Banaba Advanced Business Management
- CLIL (Content and Language Integrated Learning)
- Global Citizenship and Development