Small Business and Retail Management

The Bachelor’s program in Small Business and Retail Management at NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences offers students a comprehensive education in the dynamic fields of entrepreneurship, retail, and small business development. Designed to equip future business leaders with practical skills and theoretical knowledge, this programme prepares students to excel in the competitive landscape of retail and small enterprises. Throughout the course, students gain an in-depth understanding of key concepts such as business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, supply chain logistics, customer relationship management, and digital retailing. The curriculum emphasizes applied learning through real-world projects, internships, and case studies, enabling students to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills that are essential for successfully managing small businesses and retail operations.

Students will explore various aspects of starting and growing a small business, including business ideation, legal considerations, and entrepreneurial finance. They will also learn about innovative retail trends, e-commerce platforms, and the integration of technology in retail environments to enhance customer experiences. The program fosters an entrepreneurial mindset by encouraging creativity, innovation, and resilience, which are vital traits for thriving in the ever-evolving retail sector. Moreover, the programme emphasizes sustainability and ethical business practices, preparing students to build responsible and socially conscious businesses.

With a diverse international student body and a faculty of experienced professionals, the programme offers a global perspective on small business and retail management. Students can benefit from networking opportunities, industry visits, guest lectures, and collaborations with local and international companies. The practical orientation of the programme ensures graduates are well-prepared for various career paths, including retail management, small business entrepreneurship, consultancy, and start-up ventures. After completing the programme, students will have the ability to identify market opportunities, develop strategic plans, and effectively manage resources to sustain and grow their own or their organizations’ retail and small business operations.

The Small Business and Retail Management program at NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences is designed to prepare students for dynamic careers in the retail and small business sectors. This comprehensive program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, enabling students to effectively manage and develop retail organizations and small enterprises in a competitive environment. Throughout the course, students will explore core topics such as retail management, entrepreneurship, consumer behavior, marketing strategies, supply chain logistics, digital commerce, and financial management. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through real-world projects, internships, and case studies, which helps students develop critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and entrepreneurial spirit.

Students will gain insights into the latest trends in retail, including e-commerce, social media marketing, and omnichannel strategies, equipping them with the tools necessary to innovate and adapt in a rapidly changing marketplace. The program also focuses on leadership development, communication skills, and team collaboration, which are vital for success in retail management roles. With a strong international orientation, the program encourages intercultural understanding and prepares students for global careers in the retail and small business sectors.

Upon graduation, students will be equipped to pursue careers as retail managers, entrepreneurs, sales strategists, or small business advisors in various industries. The program's combination of academic excellence and practical experience aims to produce graduates who are ready to contribute meaningfully to the retail sector and drive business growth in their communities and beyond.

Admission requirements

A short track student enters the RBS programme with accreditation of 120 EC for relevant prior learning and work experience. This accreditation is given by the examination committee of the RBS. The total number of credits required for a bachelor degree is 240. In individual cases further accreditation is given for extensive, relevant work experience and an individual study route is determined.

Other requirements

1. intake gesprek We vinden een persoonlijke benadering erg belangrijk. Daarom gaan we graag met je in gesprek over jouw drijfveren en motivatie.
2. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) A short track student enters the RBS programme with accreditation of 120 EC for relevant prior learning and work experience. This accreditation is given by the examination committee of the RBS. The total number of credits required for a bachelor degree is 240. In individual cases further accreditation is given for extensive, relevant work experience and an individual study route is determined.

The financing options for the Small Business and Retail Management program at NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences are designed to support both Dutch and international students in pursuing their higher education goals. The primary sources of funding available to students include government grants, student loans, scholarships, and personal savings. Dutch students are typically eligible for the Dutch government’s student loan program, which offers favorable repayment terms and low interest rates, making higher education more accessible. International students may need to explore alternative financing options such as private scholarships, Erasmus+ grants, or bank loans in their home country. NHL Stenden also provides extensive information and assistance regarding financial planning, including guidance on applying for scholarships and understanding the cost structure of the program.

Tuition fees for the program vary depending on the student’s nationality and residency status. Dutch students benefit from the statutory tuition fee, which is significantly lower than the non-EU international student fee. Non-EU students are required to pay higher fees, but they can also apply for specific scholarships aimed at international students to offset these costs. Additionally, students are advised to consider living expenses, which encompass accommodation, meals, transportation, study materials, and personal expenses. These costs can vary based on the city of Leeuwarden, where NHL Stenden is located, and the lifestyle choices of individual students.

Many students finance their studies through a combination of sources, including part-time work, savings, family support, and external funding. The university encourages prospective students to plan their finances carefully and to start the application process early for scholarships and financial aid programs. Students are also advised to consult with financial advisors and the university’s student services to explore all available options. Overall, the funding landscape for the Small Business and Retail Management program at NHL Stenden offers multiple routes for students to secure financial support, thereby enabling them to focus on their academic and professional development.

Small Business and Retail Management at NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for successful careers in the dynamic world of small enterprises and retail industries. The program emphasizes practical skills, entrepreneurial mindset, and strategic thinking required to start, manage, and grow a small business or retail operation. Students engage in a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, including case studies, internships, and project-based learning, to develop a deep understanding of the retail sector, marketing, financial management, operations, and customer relationship management. The curriculum covers essential topics such as business planning, market analysis, product development, digital marketing, and sales strategies, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to adapt to rapidly changing market trends and consumer behaviors. The program also fosters innovation and sustainability, encouraging students to develop responsible business models that contribute positively to society and the environment. International exposure is a key component, with opportunities for exchange programs, cooperative projects with global companies, and collaboration with diverse student groups enhancing intercultural competence. The teaching methods include lectures, workshops, group discussions, and real-world projects, facilitated by experienced lecturers and industry professionals. Upon graduation, students are prepared for various roles in small business development, retail management, consulting, and entrepreneurship, with many graduates choosing to launch their own ventures or take on leadership positions within existing companies. The program's location in the Netherlands, a country renowned for its retail innovation and entrepreneurial spirit, provides a strategic advantage and opportunities for networking and career development. Overall, the Small Business and Retail Management program aims to cultivate innovative, responsible, and entrepreneurial professionals who can thrive in a competitive global marketplace, making a meaningful impact in the retail and small business sectors.