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UT and Nedap

University of Twente and Nedap start structural cooperation

Science programme at Nedap University ensures cross-fertilization between theory and practice    

The University of Twente (UT) and technology company Nedap formalise structural cooperation today. Also in the coming years science students wishing to become software developers can follow the special training programme offered by Nedap University. Participants are then directly employed by Nedap. What makes this training concept special is that ‘students’ from corporate life follow integral modular university education among regular full-time students. This combination provides a special dynamism which greatly contributes to the academic results.  


Dutch universities have for many years been unable to meet the high demand of corporate life for highly skilled technical specialists. As a consequence, the need for software developers increases every year. In 2015 Nedap decided to join forces with the UT and to set up its own educational institute: Nedap University. After a successful pilot, the second batch of students started this month. In addition to the UT modules, part of the curriculum is provided by the Technical University of Eindhoven (TU/e). 

Cross-fertilization

Theo Toonen, dean of the UT: “It is our belief that every university should be aware of what is happening in society and what the requirements of corporate life are. Nedap University is a unique cross-fertilization between theory and practice. A nice practical example of how the UT sees professional learning and development. The pilot showed that this new model - integral education in which ‘working students’ and regular full-time students sit side by side in class - works very well.  This is why we intend to start a new group every year.”

Geert Hollander, director of Nedap Staffing Solutions and initiator of Nedap’s educational institute: “We wanted to deliver an educational programme that distinguishes itself from the regular traineeships, an educational programme that combines the quality of an academic study with the direct application in their own field of work. With Nedap University we found a special mix. I can’t think of any other job in the Netherlands where, in addition to your regular work, you receive lessons from the absolute top experts. For example, Geert Heijenk who is one of the Bluetooth founders, teaches the module on networks. That is pretty special.” 

About Nedap University

Nedap University offers a place to technical academics with proven potential for becoming software developers at the highest level, without the education they already have being fully appropriate. Participants step straight into employment at Nedap and are offered a customised training programme. Nedap specialists and experts from the academic world train this talent within an 18-month period. The programme consisting of theoretical modules from the UT and the TU/e, includes theory on software systems, networks, User Experience (UX), and themes such as big data and privacy. This theoretical foundation is supplemented by practical modules, as taught by experts from Nedap, and the practical experience they gain in their jobs as developers. Moreover, Nedap provides participants with tools so they can succeed as professionals in corporate life.

drs. J.G.M. van den Elshout (Janneke)
Press relations (available Mon-Fri)