If you're considering studying in the Netherlands, you will come across two main types of higher education institution: universities of applied sciences and research universities.
HZ is a university of applied sciences. This means our education has a strong practical and professional focus, preparing you to apply your knowledge in your future career.
Dutch higher education explained
The Netherlands has two main types of bachelor's-level higher education:
- Universities of applied sciences (hogescholen) focus on professional and practical education.
- Research universities (universiteiten) have a stronger focus on academic and scientific research.
Both are part of Dutch higher education, but their approach to learning is different.
University of applied sciences vs research university
| University of applied sciences | Research university | |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Professional practice | Academic and scientific |
| Learning | Applied and practical | More theoretical |
| Bachelor's | Usually 4 years | Usually 3 years |
| Projects | Strong practical component | Depends on programme |
| Internships | Common | Depends on programme |
| Qualification | Bachelor's degree | Bachelor's degree |
One isn't automatically better than the other. The best choice depends on how you like to learn and what you want to do after your studies.
Is a university of applied sciences right for me?
A university of applied sciences could be a good fit if you:
- enjoy applying what you learn;
- prefer practical projects alongside theory;
- want professional experience during your degree;
- enjoy working with others;
- want to prepare directly for a professional career.
Want to learn more about the Dutch education system?
Frequently asked questions
Yes. A university of applied sciences is one of the two main types of higher education institution in the Netherlands. Universities of applied sciences offer higher professional education with a strong focus on applying knowledge in practice. HZ University of Applied Sciences is officially recognised as a higher education institution in the Netherlands.
Hbo stands for hoger beroepsonderwijs, which means higher professional education. Hbo programmes are offered by universities of applied sciences and combine theoretical knowledge with practical and professional skills. Bachelor's programmes at this level usually take four years. Depending on your previous education and the programme, you may be eligible for a three-year study route
Hbo and WO are the two main types of higher education in the Netherlands. Hbo is offered by universities of applied sciences and has a practical, profession-oriented approach. WO is offered by research universities and has a stronger academic and research-oriented focus.
Both can lead to a recognised bachelor's degree, but the way you learn and the length and structure of the programmes differ.
After successfully completing a bachelor's programme at HZ, you receive a recognised bachelor's degree. The exact degree title depends on your study programme, such as a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science or another bachelor's degree. You can find the degree awarded on the individual study programme pages.
Yes. Bachelor's degrees awarded by recognised Dutch universities of applied sciences are part of the Dutch higher education system and follow the European bachelor's-master's degree structure.
Recognition for a specific job, regulated profession or further study abroad can depend on the requirements of the country, employer or university concerned.
Yes, a bachelor's degree from a university of applied sciences can give you access to master's programmes. The admission requirements depend on the master's programme and institution.
Some master's programmes, particularly at Dutch research universities, may require you to complete a pre-master's programme or meet additional academic requirements first.
A full bachelor's programme at a Dutch university of applied sciences usually consists of 240 ECTS credits and is designed to take four years. The programme combines theoretical knowledge with practical learning and professional experience, such as projects and internships.
At HZ, some students may be eligible for a three-year study route, depending on the programme and their previous education. Check the programme page to see which study routes are available and which admission requirements apply.