Around 25 universities of applied sciences, including HZ University of Applied Sciences, began a pilot in 2023 for their own doctoral track: the Professional Doctorate (PD). This new programme places applied research at its core.
PD candidates follow an intensive learning pathway designed to train them as highly qualified, research-driven professionals capable of intervening effectively in complex professional contexts.
Doctoral-level thinking
The PD was introduced because a doctoral route within universities of applied sciences represents an important and necessary addition to the higher education system. It enables a continuous learning pathway within the professional education sector, running from associate degree through bachelor’s and master’s to doctorate level.
There is also growing demand from businesses and organisations for employees who can think and work at a doctoral level, applying their expertise directly in practice. PD programmes are therefore intended to add value for candidates, society, industry, and education, complementing the existing PhD routes offered by research universities, which focus more on academic research.
Seven domains
Although both routes are comparable, completing a Professional Doctorate currently does not yet result in a formal diploma, degree, or title, only a certificate. However, the initiators aim to have the Professional Doctorate legally recognised, granting candidates a protected status and the corresponding degree or title.
The pilot will run until 2029. During the first four years, candidates can begin a PD through participating universities of applied sciences, which may nominate them to the Graduate Committee of one of the seven domains: Arts & Creative Industries, Health & Wellbeing, Maritime, Education, Learning & Professionalisation, Technology & Digitalisation, Leisure, Tourism & Hospitality en Energy & Sustainability.
More information can be found at https://www.professionaldoctorate.nl/.
Iris van de Velde
At HZ, we currently have one PD candidate: Iris van de Velde. Her research topic sits at the intersection of tourism and health: ´Supporting Leisure, Tourism and Hospitality entrepreneurs to contribute to the health of local residents´.
Tourism numbers in Zeeland are high, which affects liveability and quality of life in the region. At the same time, there are growing concerns about health and wellbeing in Zeeland. The province aims to be a vital region, where a healthy leisure sector is in balance with society and the environment. Through her PD, Iris seeks to support tourism entrepreneurs so that their initiatives contribute to the health of local residents. In doing so, the leisure sector can help municipalities achieve their goal of maintaining a vital region.
