Did you know that in the Netherlands there are two types of universities: universities of applied sciences and research universities. But what exactly are the differences between the two? And what type is best for you?
Theory vs Practice
Studying at a research university is theory-based. Compared to an university of applied sciences, you will do a lot of (scientific) research. This also goes for the internships: you will be more involved in performing research for a company and less in working on projects within a team. Plus, sometimes you do not even have to do an internship.
Studying at a university of applied sciences is practice-based. You develop skill sets that you will also use in your future work environment. You work on projects directly related to your field and you work together with other students all the time. This means that you don’t just learn the skills you need, you get to use them in practice. Studying at an university of applied sciences will prepare you for a professional role in your field.
In short, a university of applied sciences, like HZ, offers you the best of both worlds: challenging theoretical classes combined with a lot of practical skills that you will be able to use directly on the work floor.
Do you want to know more about studying at HZ?
Study duration
Another difference is the length of study. A bachelor’s degree at a research university takes at least three years to complete. A standard bachelor study at an university of applied sciences takes four years. Of course the study duration can vary and at HZ some bachelor programmes even have a fast-track in which you can graduate in 3 years as well, depending on your diplomas.
Professional skills
One of the main reasons for picking a university of applied sciences over a research university is its practical approach. A university of applied sciences, like HZ, will help you develop a professional skill set from day one. You will not only learn the theory, but will apply this in practice right away; often in challenging real-life projects for companies. You will work together with other students the entire time and train your teamwork and professional skills. The practical approach will prepare you for the many challenges you will face in your professional life.
So if you also want to train your professional skills, picking HZ University of Applied Sciences is the smart thing to do.
