Universities of Applied Sciences - PD/PhD

Do you have an interest in finding solutions to societal issues via practice-based research combined with working in practice? Then doing a PD at a university of applied sciences (UAS) might be the next step for you!

A Professional Doctorate (PD) is a new programme of higher professional education for master’s graduates with practical experience. The programme takes approximately four years and trains highly skilled professionals who come up with solutions for complex issues such as the energy transition or healthcare.

After completing a PD programme you bring a lot of knowledge and skills with you, especially in the field of practice-oriented and scientifically based innovation. These professionals can use their practical know-how to tackle complex issues and thus contribute to sustainable innovation.

The Universities of Applied Sciences have started with a first cohort of PD candidates in seven domains:

• Art & Creative
• Health & Wellness
• Maritime
• Technology & Digitization
• Leisure, Tourism & Hospitality
• Energy and Sustainability
• Education: Learning & Professional Development

The PD at universities op applied sciences focuses at three target groups:

• Professionals working in private/public organisations or as freelancers in a relevant field
• Staff working at uas’s /research universities looking for the next step in their (research) career
• transfer students who have completed a domain-related master's programme at participating Dutch or international universities of applied sciences

Are you interested in a PD programme? You are eligible if you:

• have a master's degree
• have extensive practical experience
• work in a relevant working environment in professional practice, research or education

A PD programme is often linked to an existing position within or outside higher professional education.

Would you like to know more about the PD programme? Read more on the website of the Association of Universities of Applied Sciences (in Dutch only).