HZ University of Applied Sciences
Master of Science in River Delta Development
Middelburg, Netherlands
MSc
DURATION
2 years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
EARLIEST START DATE
Sep 2026
TUITION FEES
EUR 2,694 / per year *
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus, Blended
* EU-students | Non-EU students: €9.893
Key Summary
The English-taught Master’s program River Delta Development is a unique joint degree offered by three universities of applied sciences with complementing expertise in the field of water: HZ University of Applied Sciences (coastal regions), Van Hall Larenstein University of Applied Sciences (river systems), and Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences (urban water).
The Dutch Delta is an example
The universities of applied sciences of HZ, Van Hall Larenstein, and Rotterdam have been collaborating at the Centre of Expertise Delta Technology for several years and are combining their complementing expertise in the fields of coastal regions, river systems, and urban water to create the River Delta Development Master’s program. This will provide you with insight into how the different component systems operate, how they relate to each other, and how the delta functions as a cohesive system. By focusing (and working, if you choose) on the international context, you will learn how to apply this knowledge in deltas around the world.
Accredited study programme
In the Netherlands, the standard of higher education is maintained through an accreditation system that ensures legal regulation and quality assurance. All programs at HZ University of Applied Sciences are examined and approved by the accreditor, the Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands, and Flanders (NVAO). This means that they meet the quality requirements for accredited higher education set by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science, ensuring that you are always choosing a program of a high standard.
Join our events
Whether you're exploring this study programme, looking to connect with students and staff, or want to experience life at HZ firsthand, our events are the perfect opportunity. From Open Days to webinars, there's something for everyone. Check out our upcoming events and register now!
Scholarships and financial aid options are offered to support our students:
- NL Scholarship – A €5,000 scholarship for non-EU students enrolling in a full-time bachelor's program. Applications close on 1 May.
- Financial Aid for EU Students – Some EU students may be eligible for Dutch student finance, which includes loans, grants, and a student travel card. Eligibility depends on working hours and residency status in the Netherlands.
Additionally, part-time job opportunities are available to help manage living expenses. These funding options ensure students have financial support to focus on their studies and personal development.
Our open days are the perfect opportunity to discover HZ, otherwise you can also join our webinars from the comfort of your home. Talk to lecturers, meet our students and learn all about studying at HZ
After the kick-off, you will be introduced to the Coast Delta system, which will also be held at HZ. You will be working in Living Labs, with one day a week spent at the University of Applied Sciences, where you will participate in lectures, coaching, and reflection. After 15 weeks of research, you will complete this period with an evaluation week during which you will undergo assessments of your research about the delta as a whole and the issues at work in that environment. Under the guidance of lecturers, you will also collectively examine how everyone’s research fits into the entire delta system. Similar blocks on River systems (at Van Hall Larenstein in Velp) and Urban Water (at Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences) will follow. The three blocks, which work on building your knowledge, research skills, and specific professional development, will last a total of 17 weeks at each university of Applied Sciences.
Final evaluation
After completing the three blocks, there will be a final phase of 17 weeks, during which you will create and present a final product. In conclusion, the last, integral competencies will be tested using a portfolio and oral final assessment. The final phase will take place at Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences.
River Delta Development has been developed in close cooperation with professionals. Governmental institutions as well as consultancies are clear about what they need: professionals who think and work in constructive, integrated ways, who know transitional processes, and who are capable of moving people and organizations to make things happen. The world is in transition (climate, energy, circular economy, etc.) and needs people who can facilitate this change. In delta areas, many important issues come together, and they are aggravated by high population density and their vulnerable locations. This situation creates a demand for educated, enthusiastic, passionate young people who will take on the role of developing resilient, safe, and sustainable delta life.
Job positions you could occupy upon graduating from the Master River Delta Development are
- process manager
- initiator of new projects
- Facilitator of civil changes
- researcher
- administrator
- consultant