The government wants people to be able to obtain a doctorate through higher professional education as well. It tabled a legislative amendment to this effect on Monday 30 March.
Until now, such a degree could only be obtained at a university. "Applied research is of great value in providing solutions to societal problems and is often directly applicable. I believe it is important to truly value such research. This requires a legally recognised degree. It is good that this is now being introduced; it really is a missing piece of the puzzle,” says Minister Rianne Letschert of Education, Culture and Science.
Professional Doctor
If the bill is passed, the title ‘Professional Doctor’ will be added to the existing degrees. A PD programme, which you can undertake after completing a master’s degree, lasts four to six years; it is just as challenging as a university degree programme, but has a different focus. PD candidates generally collaborate with a company or organisation during their research.
In recent years, experiments have already been conducted with the PD programme, in collaboration with the Association of Universities of Applied Sciences and the SIA Coordination Body. Iris van de Velde is the first HZ student to undertake a PD programme. She is researching how tourist facilities in the province can contribute to the health of residents. More PD students will soon follow. Read and watch more about it here.
A milestone for higher professional education
“The professional doctorate trains people who, together with companies and institutions, bring about innovations in a professional practice that is changing at breakneck speed due to technological developments such as AI. The statutory recognition of the PD would therefore, particularly at this time, be very good news for our economy and society. And a milestone for higher professional education,” says Maurice Limmen, chair of the VH.
The aim is for students or professionals with a master’s degree to be able to follow the legally recognised PD programme from the 2027–2028 academic year onwards.