Since the 2019-2020 academic year, students at universities of applied sciences in Flanders have been able to enrol in associate degree programmes. These programmes were previously offered within adult education and have since been integrated into higher education as new associate degree programmes.
Universities of applied sciences wishing to offer such a new programme must first obtain approval from the NVAO. Over the past year, the NVAO assessed more than one hundred programme applications. In its overview report, the NVAO brings together the findings of the assessment committees and presents its own cross-institutional observations and recommendations.
In the report, the NVAO identifies a number of strengths of the new associate degree programmes, while also highlighting areas that require further attention and development. The publication therefore provides valuable insights for institutions seeking to enhance programme quality and strengthen the positioning of associate degree education within the Flemish higher education landscape.
In FOQUS, the NVAO's online magazine, the organisation highlights several key findings from the overview report and reflects on the opportunities and challenges associated with the introduction of associate degree programmes in Flanders.