Universities of Applied Sciences Netherlands (UASNL)

UASNL is a collaboration of 14 Dutch Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS), who work together to strengthen their European research and innovation profile. Through the EU office in Brussels, UASNL contributes to policy developments, builds European partnerships and shows the value of applied research and innovation in answering the challenges Europe faces. In UAS, knowledge valorisation, applied scientific research and educational activities are strongly intertwined. Labs, projects, internships and workplace learning are often implemented in research programmes.

The professional orientation of the UAS student makes them a valuable contributor to the labour market and increases the graduate’s employability skills. In addition, UAS students also participate regularly in research projects that lead to innovation, for example new businesses. This provides a win-win situation for the institute and the student. The UAS uses research outcomes to improve their curriculum or further research, and the student has gained hands on work experience.

UASNL aims to raise the unique profile of applied research and innovation within UAS. We tackle global challenges through a regional focus on applied research and innovation.

Raise awareness and create a strong position in Europe and beyond for applied research, innovation and societal impact. We organise seminars, conferences and networking events, to name a few. The researchers working in the UAS participate in European funded projects, and where needed we try to impact European policy making with likeminded partners. 

There are a lot, since the network represents 14 UAS there are many examples. On our website you’ll find a selection of them: www.uasnl.eu/best-practices. Most of the projects outlined on the website also tackle global challenges such as climate change, energy transition or sustainable urban development.