We’re Back! Meet Dutch Universities of Applied Sciences in Dublin
Until recently, a lot of the interest in studying in the Netherlands has been directed towards the more academic research universities. Admittedly, these are excellent. However, increasing numbers of Irish students are preferring the more hands-on, employment focused approach of the Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS).
Importantly, these universities are finding that Irish students, in particular, match their preferred profile of students. Some of these universities are coming to Ireland in April to meet students and their families. They are bringing with them Irish students who are already studying in the Netherlands.
Programmes are offered in areas such as Physiotherapy, Game Design, Animal Husbandry, Business, Art & Design, IT, Hotel Management, Law, Engineering, Global Development, Music, Event Management, Sports Studies, Teaching and many more.
Programmes in the UAS are overtly employment-focused with a much more practical, hands-on, project-based style than the more academic (albeit excellent) programmes at research universities. The UAS programmes usually include one or two internships. Irish students on these programmes are enjoying an approach to education that, though less academic and more practical, is still very high in quality. Commentators in Higher Education, suggest that these programmes are a great match to the needs and preferred learning styles of many Irish students.
Entry requirements are very reasonable (Leaving Cert point are irrelevant!) – only five passes at Leaving Cert are required: reflecting students’ right to an education in mainland Europe and sidestepping the need to obsess about Leaving Cert points. Importantly, students with a relevant QQI Level 5 qualification qualify for degree programmes at UAS. There is also a special route for mature students!
Note that, if you successfully complete first yea r, you meet the entry requirements for the Research Universities.
Tuition fees are low: Eur 2206 p.a., with a long-term interest-free loans from the Dutch government, to pay these fees. There are other loans/grants available for living expenses. Also, if you qualify for a SUSI Maintenance Grant, you can take it with you. This all ensures that it is often less expensive to study in the Netherlands, than in Ireland.
So, if you are interested in a programme that directly prepares you for the employment markets of the 21st century, programmes which you have the right to join and can afford to attend, it is certainly worth considering the Universities of Applied Sciences.
This event is free. Register here:
https://dutchunisapril22.eventbrite.ie
Remember, you have a right to an education!!!
