Making a difference with a cross-border mindset
Inholland UAS introduces a new Internationalisation Policy
We live in a world where complex societal challenges have a direct impact on our lives and regions we live in. More often than not, these challenges have global roots. They call for a cross-border approach that brings together international cooperation and research. That’s why the new Internationalisation Policy at Inholland University of Applied Sciences aims to embed internationalisation into every part of what we do – in our education, our research, and in how we grow through cross-departmental collaboration and shared purpose.
Growing global together
Society and the professional field in the Netherlands are becoming more international by the day. As a (future) professional, you’ll need to be able to navigate this landscape. But how do you broaden your view on global issues in a way that helps you truly understand them? At Inholland, we want to give both students and colleagues the chance to develop international and intercultural skills.
Why internationalisation matters
“Internationalisation helps prepare students and colleagues for a professional field that’s becoming more international in scope,” says Petra Hogendoorn-Schweighofer, Policy Advisor for Internationalisation. “It also strengthens the quality of our education and research, increases our social impact, and helps us actively contribute to a sustainable and resilient society.”
Integrated into every programme
Internationalisation isn’t new at Inholland. We offer exchange programmes, many students study abroad, and our researchers are collaborating more and more on an international level. “With the new policy, we’re taking it a step further by ensuring internationalisation is a part of every programme – from associate degrees to master’s and professional development courses at Inholland Academy,” Petra explains.
Opportunities for everyone
“The strength of this policy is that it’s grounded in real experience,” says Mara Slootmaker, Internationalisation Programme Manager at the Technology, Design and Innovation (TOI) faculty. “We looked at what works – from both research and education. Internationalisation is for everyone at Inholland. We encourage both students and staff to take part in an international experience. That could mean going on exchange, working on international projects, or collaborating online – whether nearby or further afield.”
Collaborating through research
Hendrik Jan Hobbes, Policy Advisor for Research, welcomes the increased focus on international – especially European – research partnerships. “Sustainable research projects improve the quality and impact of our practice-based research. They’re essential for advancing knowledge on societal issues that also have deep relevance at a local and regional level.”
Internationalisation helps us realise Inholland’s strategic ambitions and makes our organisation future-ready.
Finding the right balance
For years, Inholland has offered a small number of English-taught degree programmes – designed specifically for international careers. At the same time, we’re committed to maintaining a balanced approach to internationalisation, in line with the national legislation proposal Internationalisation in Balance (WIB). “We’re currently working on an updated language policy,” Petra adds, “to strengthen the role of Dutch in higher education while also offering extra support to international students.”
One Inholland
The Internationalisation Policy reflects our ‘One Inholland’ approach. “We’re fostering connections, encouraging synergy, and providing clear guidelines so that degree programmes, research groups and support teams can take practical steps towards internationalisation,” says Petra. “How can we scale up a successful initiative from one faculty so that more students and colleagues benefit? How can we broaden our international partnerships to approach challenges in an interdisciplinary way? Internationalisation supports Inholland in achieving its ambitions and securing a strong future.”
A network to connect and grow
The new policy also brings the Internationalisation Learning Network to life. This network connects colleagues across themes, helping us come together as one Inholland – in education, research, and support services – to achieve our international goals.