6 Great Reasons to Study in Europe 

6 Great Reasons to Study in Europe 

It’s probably true that you can find at least one good reason to study on any of the seven continents – even Antarctica¹. So what’s so special about studying in Europe, and why do so many students aspire to gain a degree from a European institution? 

Globalization 

In the late 20th century, advances in transportation and communications technology gave rise to the concept of “globalization” to describe the unprecedented international connectivity of the post-Cold War world. McLuhan’s “global village” brought together all parts of the world via the internet and other means of electronic communication. 

Globalization not only allows digital access to EU Business School courses online, but it encourages students to experience first-hand the attractions of living and working in a new environment. 

The following are some of the many reasons why European study is so attractive. 

1. Career Opportunities 

The European Union (EU) is a special example of globalization where 27 countries have come together in an economic union which allows free movement of goods, services, capital and people between member states.  

Where better to experience the global business environment than in the heart of Europe, by studying at one of the EU Business School campuses located in Spain, Switzerland and Germany – or digitally online? 

2. High quality of tuition – the Bologna Process 

Many of the best universities in the world are located in Europe. Top academic staff are attracted to Europe’s sophistication and history, and by its proximity to so many diverse cultures, nationalities and lifestyles. 

In tandem, the demand for student mobility has grown rapidly. Institutions have had to grapple with the need to recognise qualifications across different national higher education systems, with divergent degree structures and different academic traditions. 

In this context, Europe has led the way. The Bologna Process is the response of national governments to the challenges arising from the mobility of European students and graduates, bringing coherence to higher education systems across Europe.  

The European Higher Education Area (EHEA) facilitates student and staff mobility, to make higher education more inclusive and accessible, and to make higher education in Europe more attractive and competitive worldwide.  

The Bologna Process recognises each participating country’s qualifications and learning periods (see ECTS below), and supports a system of quality assurance for learning and teaching. 

3. European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) 

This system measures and compares learning achievements and helps students easily transfer credits from one higher education institution to another. The benefits of ECTS for students include: 

• You can study a Bachelor’s in one EHEA country and a Master’s in another EHEA country, as if you studied both in the same country. 
• Find work in any EHEA country you want, as your studies will be easily recognised.  
• If you enroll in a joint-degree, studying a semester abroad, or an Erasmus+ study experience (see below), it will be easy for your home university to keep track of the study hours, with the help of ECTS credits. 

• Less differentiation between local and international students in universities.  
• Even if you drop out of a programme, ECTS credits help you prove your academic achievements, so you don’t have to repeat the same courses again. 
• Your degree will have the same number of credits, no matter what academic discipline you pursue. Every ECTS credit point represents the amount of workload you accomplished in that period of time.² 

4. Cultural diversity and richness – opportunities to see Europe 

Of the 45 countries in Europe today, 27 are members of the EU. Another three (Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway) are included in the EU single market as part of the European Economic Area (EEA). 

A Schengen visa will allow uninhibited travel within the EU states, the largest free travel area in the world. This allows you to stay up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes. However, if you are planning to study in one of the Schengen countries for more than 90 days, you must apply for a national visa of that European country.  

5. Study in English – or learn a new language 

• More English courses on offer means more international students are attracted to these European campuses.  
• Cities where the universities are situated – like EU Business School’s campuses in Barcelona, Munich and Geneva – have a more international feel, with a student-friendly vibe and more fun activities. 
• More English taught courses result in more teachers with an international mindset and a more global vision. 
• Easy access to English study materials, libraries, labs, etc. 
• More industry connections with big companies looking for interns or fresh employees. In addition, EU’s inspirational Learning From Leaders series gives students a privileged view into some of the most brilliant minds in business today. 

6. Access to Funding  

There are literally thousands of scholarships and other financial support schemes available across Europe for international students to study there. 

Erasmus+ is the EU’s programme to support education, training, youth and sport in Europe. With an estimated budget of €26.2 billion, funding has nearly doubled over the last 10 years.³ 

The 2021-2027 programme places a strong focus on social inclusion, the green and digital transitions, and promoting young people’s participation in democratic life.  

Final Thought 

With three campuses in three European capitals, EU Business School is best placed to offer you the European study experience you are looking for.