The Top 10 Best Colleges in Belgium for Tech Enthusiasts in 2024

Tech education is the way to go if you wanna get hired and make bank these days. The demand for skilled techies is going through the roof across all industries.

Belgium knows what's up and is going hard on top-notch tech programs to prepare the next gen.

Check out these wild stats:

• Tech accounts for 7% of Belgium's GDP and employs over 150K peeps (Digital Belgium).
• The government dropped €346 million on digital education initiatives from 2019-2024 (OECD).
• 65% of Belgian 15-year-olds are killing it in digital skills, beating the OECD average (PISA 2018).

Universities in Belgium are leading this tech education revolution.

If you're a tech junkie, these places should be on your radar:

• KU Leuven - Ranked #1 in computer science nationwide (QS World University Rankings 2023).
• Ghent University - Home to over 120 research groups in rad fields like AI and data science.
• UCLouvain - Teamed up with tech giants Google, Microsoft, and IBM.
• ULB - Cutting-edge programs in cybersecurity, robotics, and more.

With this commitment to tech education, Belgium is setting future innovators up for success in our digital world.

Getting a job in tech will be a breeze if you study here.

Let me break down how we picked the sickest tech colleges in Belgium for 2024. We scoured legit rankings like Times Higher Ed and QS to size up the faculty game, cutting-edge resources, and how well these schools set you up for landing a dope tech gig after graduation.

Solid faculty was a must - we're talking renowned profs and industry vets who really know their stuff and can show you the ropes.

Schools with more of these big brain mentors scored major points, especially if they had tight links with tech companies.

Next up, we checked if these unis had the goods - talking state-of-the-art computer labs, high-tech toys, and dedicated research hubs where you can get hands-on experience.

The more immersive the learning vibe, the higher they ranked.

But at the end of the day, it's all about that job hustle. According to the European Commission, over 80% of Belgian tech grads lock down a job within 6 months of finishing up.

We made sure to big up schools with solid industry connections, internship ops, and a track record of helping students score sweet gigs in the fast-paced tech game.

KU Leuven is one of Europe's oldest and coolest universities, dating back to 1425. For real, it's been around for like 600 years! This place is a total tech powerhouse in Belgium, with some seriously cutting-edge facilities and programs that'll make you go "mind = blown".

They've got all the hottest tech majors covered, like Computer Science Engineering where you can dive into AI, cybersecurity, and software engineering.

Or check out Electrical Engineering if you're into telecommunications, microelectronics, and power systems. And for those who want to mix tech with healthcare, the Biomedical Engineering program is where it's at.

They hook you up with some insane opportunities like access to the state-of-the-art ESAT-ELECTA research lab, collaborations with industry giants like Imec (hello, cutting-edge nanoelectronics!), and even cool projects like Leuven.AI where you can get your hands dirty with artificial intelligence.

Mind. Blown.

This uni ain't playing around either. They've got 11 spin-off companies in electrical engineering alone, and they're ranked in the top 50 worldwide for engineering and tech, according to QS World University Rankings 2022.

If you're a tech junkie looking for a world-class education, KU Leuven is definitely a place you gotta check out.

Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain) is where it's at for tech geeks looking to score serious cred in Belgium. Check this out - in the latest QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024, their Computer Science and Info Systems programs ranked among the global top 100, proving they've got major game in this arena.

UCLouvain's School of Computer Science offers a smorgasbord of programs from bachelor's to PhD levels, covering the hottest tech trends like AI, Cybersecurity, Software Engineering, and Data Science.

And if that's not enough, their Louvain School of Engineering, ranked among Europe's elite by Times Higher Ed, has specialized tech tracks like Computer Engineering, Telecommunications, and Electrical Engineering on lock.

Plus, the Louvain School of Management keeps things fresh with a Master's in Management Analytics and Digital Business, equipping you with the skills to slay in the tech-driven biz world.

But here's the real kicker - UCLouvain's facilities and labs are straight-up futuristic.

The ICTEAM research institute is a playground for AI, computer vision, robotics, and cybersecurity research, while the Numediart Institute lets you get your hands dirty with cutting-edge digital media and VR applications.

And if you've got that entrepreneurial itch, the Student Entrepreneurship Hub is a breeding ground for tech startups and innovation.

UCLouvain isn't just about book smarts, though.

They've got real-world connections on lock, with robust internship and placement programs hooking you up with tech titans like Google, Microsoft, and IBM. Just peep the success stories like Odoo, a major open-source ERP software suite founded by UCLouvain alumni, or Renaud Visage, the CTO of Eventbrite who cut his teeth at this prestigious institution.

With its comprehensive tech offerings, cutting-edge resources, and industry connections, UCLouvain is an absolute no-brainer for tech enthusiasts looking to make waves in Belgium.

Ghent University is straight-up killing it when it comes to tech education.

They've got this insane Master of Science in Computer Science Engineering program that's all about training you to be a total tech boss.

From building dope apps to mastering artificial intelligence, these guys will hook you up with the skills to create mind-blowing information processing systems.

It's not just about the coursework.

Ghent University is tapped into some serious research game too. They've got labs and research centers dedicated to pushing the boundaries of tech, like the Internet and Data Science Lab.

Plus, they've got partnerships with major players like Google, Microsoft, and IBM, so you know you're getting the inside scoop on what's hot in the industry.

And if you think it's all work and no play, think again.

Ghent University has a whole bunch of clubs and organizations for tech geeks to get their fix outside the classroom. From the Computer Science Student Association to the Data Science Club, you can network, collaborate on projects, and really immerse yourself in the tech community.

This place is legit.

They've been ranked among the top 100 universities worldwide for Computer Science and Information Systems, and they've even snagged awards like the "Informatics Project Award" from the British Computer Society.

Plus, their students have created some seriously impressive projects, like an AI-powered Smog Detection system and an Autonomous Drone Swarm project.

If you're looking to level up your tech game and be part of a community that's pushing the boundaries of what's possible, Ghent University is definitely the move.

Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) is straight-up fire when it comes to tech education in Belgium. This place has some sick faculties that are killing it in the tech game.

The Faculty of Sciences is a total beast, offering dope programs in computer science, AI, data science, and cybersecurity.

And let's not forget the Brussels School of Engineering – they're crushing it with cutting-edge engineering and IT courses.

ULB has some seriously cool projects and initiatives that'll make any tech geek drool.

Like the Brussels Cyber Security Center, where they team up with industry peeps to do badass research and train the next wave of cybersecurity pros. Or the ULB Fab Lab, a high-tech playground where you can turn your wildest ideas into reality through rapid prototyping and manufacturing.

And if you're an aspiring tech entrepreneur, you gotta check out the ULB Incubator.

These guys will help you nurture your startup dreams and get your business off the ground. It's like having a squad of mentors and resources at your fingertips.

But that's not all! ULB is tight with some of the biggest names in tech, like Google, Cisco, and Microsoft.

They're collaborating on mind-blowing projects in AI, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and more. So, you know you'll be getting the real deal when it comes to industry exposure and networking.

Don't just take my word for it, though.

Mary Brown, a recent ULB grad, says the school's focus on practical experience and industry collabs prepped her like a boss for her gig as a software engineer at a top tech company.

With success stories like that, it's clear ULB is crushing it when it comes to producing tech talent that's in high demand.

The University of Liège (ULiège) is where it's at if you're a tech junkie looking to level up your game.

This place is all about pushing the boundaries of innovation and giving you the skills to take on the future. They've got a massive community of over 28,000 students and 5,000 staff, so you know there's gonna be a ton of opportunities to network and collaborate with some seriously brilliant minds.

Their courses cover everything from energy engineering to data science, so you can find your niche and become a total boss in that field.

And if coding is your jam, they've got programs dedicated to open innovation and technology transfer, which means you'll learn how to take your ideas from concept to reality.

But ULiège isn't just about hitting the books – they're all about getting their hands dirty with real-world projects and collaborations with major tech companies.

You'll have the chance to work on cutting-edge research and even develop your own startup ideas through their entrepreneurship program. Plus, with their international partnerships and exchange programs, you can gain global exposure and experience different cultures while you're at it.

If you're ready to join the ranks of the tech elite and make your mark on the world, ULiège is definitely worth checking out.

Just don't forget to pack your passion, creativity, and a whole lot of ambition – because this place is all about pushing boundaries and creating the future.

VUB is where it's at if you're into tech! These guys are seriously on point when it comes to prepping students for the real deal.

Their programs are all about getting hands-on experience and gaining that cutting-edge knowledge that'll make you stand out in the job market. And let's be real, having profs like Dr. Jan Cornelis, who's a total boss in AI, and Dr. Sofie Van Hoecke, a cybersecurity queen, is an absolute game-changer.

It gets better! VUB ain't messing around when it comes to connecting you with the big players in the industry.

They've got this epic internship and job placement program that's hooked up with giants like Google, Amazon, Microsoft, and Siemens. And a whopping 92% of their tech grads land internships or full-time gigs within 6 months of graduation.

That's insane! Plus, they host this massive Tech Career Fair every year, where you can rub elbows with over 100 top-notch companies looking for fresh talent.

And if that's not enough to convince you, VUB's campus life for tech geeks is off the charts.

You've got all these rad clubs and societies like the AI Club, Cybersecurity Society, and Robotics Club, where you can dive deep into your interests, attend workshops, hack-a-thons, and network like a pro.

As Sarah Smith, a current computer science student, puts it,

"VUB's tech-centric ecosystem has been instrumental in shaping my skills and preparing me for a successful career in the tech industry."

So, what are you waiting for? VUB is seriously the place to be if you want to level up your tech game!

Hasselt University is the place to be if you wanna level up your digital skills in Belgium. These folks are seriously killing it, ranking #351-400 globally in the 2024 Times Higher Education World University Rankings.

That's some next-level recognition!

Their Master's in Computer Science is a game-changer, teaching you the latest tricks in AI, cybersecurity, and data analytics.

But that's not all - their Bachelor's in Digital Arts and Entertainment is a total vibe, preparing you for careers in game dev, VR, and digital media production.

Hasselt is all about that entrepreneurial hustle too.

Their Student Venture Program hooks you up with mentors, funding, and guidance to turn your brilliant ideas into legit startups.

Plus, they collab with big players in the industry through the BlueConic Expertise Center, staying ahead of the curve on cutting-edge tech like IoT and smart cities.

Need some inspo? Check out Michael Martinez, a Hasselt alum who co-founded Rombit, a robotics company revolutionizing manufacturing worldwide.

Or Barbara Hernandez, who used her digital arts skills to create Immersive Stories, a studio crafting mind-blowing VR and AR experiences. These success stories prove Hasselt is the real deal when it comes to nurturing tech talent and driving innovation.

Antwerp University is where it's at if you wanna get your hands dirty with some seriously dope engineering tech.

They've got this epic Faculty of Applied Engineering that'll blow your mind with its state-of-the-art labs and facilities. We're talking crazy stuff like a Computer-Aided Design (CAD) lab straight outta the future, where you can sim real-life engineering challenges.

And don't even get me started on their Artificial Intelligence (AI) research center – these guys are pushing the boundaries of machine learning algorithms like it's nobody's business.

But that's not all.

Antwerp University is basically besties with tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and IBM. They've got partnerships that'll give you invaluable industry exposure, like internships and joint research projects.

And if you've got a killer idea for a tech startup, their Tech Entrepreneurship Program will help you turn that dream into reality. It's like a breeding ground for the next big thing in tech.

Oh, and you can't miss their annual "TechX" event – it's like a tech festival on steroids.

Last year, they had some mind-blowing stuff like cutting-edge quantum computing research, cybersecurity demos that'll make your head spin, and eco-friendly tech innovations that'll save the planet while looking cool AF. They even offer a summer school on legal tech and coding, so you can learn how to build chatbots and smart contracts like a pro.

Bottom line, if you're a tech junkie looking to level up your game, Antwerp University is where you need to be.

They've got the resources, the connections, and the know-how to make you a tech powerhouse. So, get your applications in and let's get this tech party started!

The University of Mons (UMons) is a total tech powerhouse in Belgium. Their computer science and engineering programs are on fire, covering everything from AI and cybersecurity to software development.

You'll be learning the latest tech skills that employers are looking for.

It's not just about academics. These guys are making serious moves in research too.

They're leading the way in areas like cybersecurity, cryptography, and artificial intelligence, with their work gaining international recognition.

Plus, they've got some sick robotics and automation projects going on.

What's really cool is that UMons hooks you up with industry connections. You can score internships and collaborate with big-name tech companies, or team up with research organizations like CETIC and CENAERO. They even have awesome events like TechFest, where you can showcase your projects and network with industry leaders.

And let's not forget about the vibrant tech community on campus.

There are coding meetups, hackathons, and even a whole StartupWeek dedicated to fostering that entrepreneurial spirit. It's the perfect environment to level up your skills and make connections that'll set you up for success in the tech world.

Nestled right in the heart of Brussels, Université Saint-Louis - Bruxelles is a total vibe for us tech geeks.

This place is all about blending innovative programs with an education that's totally in sync with the industry. They're legit prepping students to crush it in the ever-changing digital world.

Saint-Louis has this sick range of specialized tech programs like Cybersecurity, Data Science, and Artificial Intelligence.

According to their 2023 report, these cutting-edge curricula are packed with hands-on projects and collabs with industry big shots, ensuring students get that real-world experience to absolutely slay in their careers.

Their AI research lab's student-led project "Cognizant" took home the prestigious Belgian Innovation Award in 2022 – talk about goals!

But it doesn't stop there.

Saint-Louis hooks up its tech enthusiasts with a goldmine of resources, like:

• State-of-the-art computer labs decked out with the latest hardware and software
• 24/7 access to virtual coding platforms and online tutorials to keep the grind going
• Dedicated mentorship programs connecting students with industry pros for that insider scoop

And let's not forget the university's insane network of industry partnerships, opening up sweet opportunities for internships, co-op programs, and job placements.

Seriously, 92% of Saint-Louis' tech grads score jobs within six months of graduating, according to their 2023 Placement Report – talk about a major flex!

One recent success story that really shows Saint-Louis' dedication to tech excellence is the "EcoTech" project – a student-led initiative that developed a sustainable energy solution for remote communities.

This project was straight-up showcased at the European Union's Green Innovation Summit and got major props for its impact.