Public administration
Hermans attended a Gymnasium in Kerkrade from April 1964 until May 1970 and applied at the Radboud University Nijmegen in June 1970 majoring in Public administration obtaining an Bachelor of Public Administration degree in July 1972 before graduating with an Master of Public Administration degree in July 1976. Hermans worked as a civics teacher in Arnhem from August 1972 until July 1976. Hermans served on the Municipal Council of Nijmegen from 3 September 1974 until 5 September 1978.