Hanze students positive about their programmes

Hanze University of Applied Sciences has seen student satisfaction increase once again. Scores across all themes of the National Student Survey (NSS) are higher than last year. The most notable improvement is in the theme of Alignment with Professional Practice, where Hanze now scores above the average of the large universities of applied sciences.

Not only have average scores risen, a fundamental shift in sentiment is also visible. Since 2023, the proportion of (very) satisfied students has grown to 68 per cent, while dissatisfaction has fallen to just 8 per cent. In a national comparison of the 13 large universities of applied sciences, Hanze maintains its sixth-place position.

Dick Pouwels, Chair of the Executive Board, is pleased with the results: "This year, programmes with lower student satisfaction have again made real strides. What I am also very glad to see is that our students experience Hanze as a safe and engaged learning environment. Students feel safe to be themselves and to ask questions, which is something of great value in these times."

At the same time, there are areas in need of attention, such as the student experience in the later years of study. "In particular in the third year, we see a temporary dip in sentiment. This presents an opportunity to provide students with extra support precisely during that challenging phase. In the coming years, we will actively work on this."

Stronger alignment with professional practice

The theme ‘alignment with professional practice’ shows the most striking improvement. Whereas this area was a point of concern last year, Hanze now scores above the average of the large universities of applied sciences. Students clearly perceive the connection between their programme and the professional field as stronger.

A safe and engaged learning environment

Investments in a safe and socially inclusive study climate are also bearing fruit. Students report feeling at home at Hanze: they feel free to be themselves, to ask questions, and to make their voices heard. This strengthened sense of belonging noticeably contributes to overall satisfaction.

About the National Student Survey

The National Student Survey (NSS) is a large-scale national satisfaction study in which students share their views on their higher professional or academic programme. The results are used, among other things, in study choice guidance and on the website Studiekeuze123.nl. Universities and universities of applied sciences can also use the results to improve the quality of education.

Over 248,000 students completed the 2026 NSS. At Hanze, nearly 10,000 students took part.