Higher Education in the Netherlands: an overview

The Netherlands has a binary higher education system with two main types of institutions: Universities of Applied Sciences and Research Universities. Both offer high-quality Master’s programmes, but they differ in focus, teaching style, and the type of career they prepare you for.

Universities of Applied Sciences

Universities of Applied Sciences offer practice-oriented Master’s programmes. These programmes are closely connected to professional practice and industry needs. They emphasise applied research, hands-on learning, and direct implementation of knowledge in real-world settings.

Following a master’s at a University of Applied Sciences may be right for you if you:

  • prefer a more practical and applied teaching method and research
  • aim for professional roles that require advanced and applied research skills
  • value smaller classes and strong links to industry
  • like the idea of doing a master’s thesis while working in industry
Find your Master programme

Research universities

Research Universities offer academically oriented Master’s programmes. They focus on scientific research, theoretical depth, and analytical skills.

Following a master’s at a research university may be right for you if you:

  • want to deepen your academic knowledge
  • enjoy theoretical and conceptual learning
  • aim for a research career, PhD, or R&D-focused industry roles
  • prefer a more scientific approach to engineering and technology

‍
If you want to find out more about Master’s programmes offered by Research Universities, click the button below. You will be redirected to their website.

Master's at Research Universities