The Dutch educational system explained
The general structure
In this chapter we take a look at the different universities and degrees in the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. You can use the flowchart on the side to see how the undergraduate and postgraduate levels of the Dutch education system are built up
A university of applied sciences vs. a research university
In the Netherlands, there are two types of universities that you can attend for undergraduate and postgraduate studies: a university of applied sciences and a research university.
A research university
The education at a research university is theory-based, you will engage in a lot of (scientific) research, and experiments to validate theories. Students are curious, eager to learn, mostly interested in theory, research, essay-writing and more in-depth knowledge. If the student is person that likes to work independently, perform and do research, an academic study probably suits them well.
A university of applied sciences
Studying at a university of applied sciences is practice-based: you develop skill sets that you will apply in your future working environment. Compared to a research university, your studies are more practical in nature. You’ll be working on projects directly related to your field, doing internships and gain work experience. You will work together with other students constantly throughout your study. In essence, studying at a university of applied sciences will prepare you for a professional role in your professional field.