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Hogeschool

Hogeschool is a term used in the Netherlands and Belgium (notably the Dutch-speaking communities) to describe higher education institutions that emphasize professional training and applied sciences. These institutions focus on preparing students for specific professions through practice-oriented programs, applied research, and close ties to industry. They are distinct from traditional research universities, though they may collaborate with universities on joint degrees or research projects.

Education at a hogeschool typically leads to a professional bachelor’s degree and often includes substantial practical

Admission requirements vary by institution and country but usually require completion of secondary education. Language of

Governance and funding: Hogescholen are publicly funded higher education institutions operating under regional or national quality

Terminology and context: The concept contrasts with research-focused universities. In the Netherlands, hogeschool programs are often

components
such
as
internships,
projects,
and
industry
placements.
Programs
generally
last
three
to
four
years,
depending
on
the
country
and
field
of
study.
Degrees
awarded
reflect
the
professional
orientation,
with
titles
such
as
Bachelor
of
Applied
Sciences
or
bachelor’s
degrees
in
fields
like
business,
engineering,
health,
education,
or
arts
and
design.
instruction
is
predominantly
Dutch
in
the
Netherlands
and
the
Flemish
Community,
though
many
hogescholen
offer
programs
in
English
and
other
languages
to
attract
international
students.
assurance
frameworks.
They
are
part
of
a
broader
higher
education
landscape
that
also
includes
universities,
and
they
typically
emphasize
employability,
practical
skills,
and
applied
research
that
meets
current
industry
needs.
described
as
universities
of
applied
sciences
(hbo).
In
Belgium,
hogescholen
perform
a
similar
role
in
the
Flemish
Community,
with
the
French-speaking
equivalents
called
haute
écoles.
The
distinction
helps
clarify
the
aims,
methods,
and
pathways
associated
with
different
higher
education
tracks.