What is a research university?
A research university focuses on academic education and scientific research. You learn how to analyse complex problems, think critically and support your ideas with theory and data. Education is more theoretical than at a university of applied sciences and prepares you for careers where research, innovation and analysis play an important role.
You attend lectures, work in small tutorial groups and gradually learn how science connects to society. Whether you end up in academia, industry, government or start your own company, a research university teaches you how to think independently and deeply about your field.
Research universities in the Netherlands
The Netherlands has fourteen research universities, spread across the country. Each has its own character and strengths.
- Erasmus University Rotterdam
Located in a dynamic international city, Erasmus University focuses on economics, management, health and social issues, with a strong global outlook. - Open University
Offers flexible distance learning, designed for students who want to combine studying with work or private life. Programmes include psychology, computer science, management and law. - Radboud University
A small scale and broad university in Nijmegen, known for personal guidance and strong programmes in health and psychology. - University of Groningen
One of the oldest universities in the north of the Netherlands, offering a wide range of programmes with a strong economics faculty in an international student city. Focus on Energy, Healthy Ageing and Sustainable Society. - Delft University of Technology
The largest technical university in the country, known for engineering, innovation and close collaboration with industry through challenge based education. - Eindhoven University of Technology
Highly future oriented, with a strong focus on green energy, healthcare technology and sustainable mobility. - Tilburg University
Personal and socially engaged, with strengths in economics, management, law, social sciences and theology. - Leiden University
The oldest university in the Netherlands, based in Leiden and The Hague. Especially known for its focus on law, languages and history. - Maastricht University
The most international university in the Netherlands, located in the historic part of Maastricht. English taught programmes and a problem based learning approach. - University of Twente
A small scale university with the only American style campus in the Netherlands, featuring education buildings, labs, sports facilities and student housing. Personal and project based learning. It combines technology with society and entrepreneurship. - Utrecht University
Multiple campuses are spread across the city. The wide range of programmes covers humanities, social, natural and life sciences, with plenty of options to choose from. - University of Amsterdam
One of the largest universities in Europe, with strong programmes in social sciences, economics, humanities and natural sciences. - Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Covers all academic fields and places strong emphasis on sustainability, digitalisation, health and socially responsible entrepreneurship. - Wageningen University and Research
A small scale and highly international university, world famous for its focus on agriculture, healthy nutrition and sustainability, and its contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals.
Which university suits you best?
There is no single best university in the Netherlands. The right choice depends on what you are looking for in both your studies and your student life. Think about the learning style that suits you, the size of the university and whether you prefer a city campus or a green campus environment.
Some students feel energised by large lecture halls and international cities. Others thrive in smaller settings where lecturers know your name and teamwork plays a big role. Neither option is better than the other. It is about finding the place where you can grow.
Experience it yourself
The best way to find out whether a university fits you is to experience it. Visit open days, join a student for a day or talk to current students. That is often when things become clear, not just on paper, but in how it feels.
Reading student stories can also help. They show how others made their choices and what studying at a research university is really like in everyday life.
University of applied sciences or research university?
Do you prefer learning by doing and want to focus on practical skills from day one? Then a university of applied sciences might suit you better. If you enjoy theory, analysis and research, a research university could be the right choice.
Curious about the difference? In this article, you can read more about universities of applied sciences and research universities and discover which path fits you best.
