University Overview and Historical Background
Saxion University of Applied Sciences is one of the largest public universities of applied sciences in the Netherlands, with a history dating back to 1875. Located in the eastern part of the Netherlands, close to the German border, the university boasts three modern campuses in Deventer, Enschede, and Apeldoorn. The region offers not only beautiful rural scenery but is also just an hour’s drive from major cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam, providing convenient transportation and a relatively low cost of living. As a state university established under Dutch law, Saxion University currently has approximately 27,000 students, including 3,500 international students from over 80 countries worldwide, fostering a truly multicultural learning environment. Starting from scratch to earning a Netherlands university diploma
Core Strengths and Teaching Model
Saxion University is part of the Dutch university of applied sciences system, meaning its educational focus is on “practicality” and “career orientation.” Unlike research-oriented comprehensive universities, Saxion emphasizes applying knowledge to real-world work scenarios, with curricula closely aligned with industry needs.
- Highly Internationalized: The university offers over 30 undergraduate and master’s programs taught entirely in English, and its internationalization strategy is deeply integrated into its development plan for the next decade.
- Abundant Practical Opportunities: Courses typically include internship programs; for example, students in the Hotel Management program complete internships at five-star hotels before graduation, ensuring they are ready to enter the workforce immediately upon graduation.
- High Employment Recognition: Graduates are highly valued by local Dutch and European companies due to their solid skills, making the university an excellent choice for students seeking to gain practical experience.
Popular Majors and Curriculum
Saxion University comprises 13 faculties, covering a wide range of fields from engineering and technology to business management. For Chinese students, the admission requirements are relatively accessible; undergraduate programs typically require a high school or vocational high school diploma, and an IELTS score of 6.0 is sufficient for application.
- Engineering and Technology: Includes majors such as Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechatronics, Applied Computer Science, and Creative Media and Game Technology, all supported by state-of-the-art facilities.
- Business and Management: International Business, International Finance and Accounting, International Human Resource Management, and Marketing are popular choices, with a focus on developing cross-cultural management skills.
- Distinctive Programs: The university’s Hotel Management, Tourism Management, and Fashion and Textile Technology programs are particularly distinctive. Leveraging local industrial strengths, their teaching quality ranks among the best in the Netherlands.
Campus Life and Study Environment
Studying at Saxion University offers a cost-effective European lifestyle. Enschede and Deventer are both typical university towns—safe and vibrant.
- Affordable Cost of Living: Compared to Amsterdam, rent and living expenses here are lower; student rent typically ranges from 400 to 600 euros per month.
- Comprehensive Facilities: The university features a modern library, a sports center, and dedicated student support services to help international students quickly adapt to their new environment.
- Convenient Transportation: With well-developed transportation networks both on campus and between cities, students can easily explore the Netherlands and nearby German cities, enriching their extracurricular lives.
Summary
Thanks to its practical educational philosophy, extensive selection of English-taught programs, and welcoming study abroad environment, Saxion University of Applied Sciences has become an ideal choice for international students seeking to enhance their professional skills. If you hope to acquire genuine expertise while enjoying a comfortable and diverse study abroad experience, Saxion University is definitely worth adding to your list of applications.
