Is a University of Applied Sciences Master’s degree as valuable as a research university (WO) Master’s degree?
Yes — both result in an accredited and internationally recognised Master’s degree at the same academic level (EQF Level 7).
The key difference lies in the programme’s orientation:
- A scientific (WO) Master is research-driven and focused on generating new academic knowledge.
- An applied sciences Master, like STR, is practice-oriented. It uses applied research to create innovative, implementable solutions for real-world challenges in business and society.
In the STR programme, students work on complex, interdisciplinary sustainability transition issues, often in partnership with organisations, local authorities, or industry stakeholders. The focus is on impact, change, and professional innovation — not just theory.
What is the starting level of the STR Master’s programme?
The STR Master is designed for ambitious professionals and recent graduates who hold a business, social sciences, technical, or sustainability-related Bachelor’s degree.
You are expected to:
- Think critically and systemically
- Handle complexity and uncertainty
- Be eager to grow professionally and create impact in the field of sustainability transitions
Applicants are assessed via an oral case-based evaluation to ensure they meet entry-level expectations in communication, reasoning, and transition thinking.
How do you teach in the STR programme?
STR uses challenge-based, collaborative education. You will work in small, interdisciplinary teams on real-world transition challenges drawn from sectors such as energy, mobility, construction, healthcare, and circular economy.
Teaching methods include:
- Real-life business and societal cases
- Group projects with stakeholders
- Applied research
- Masterclasses from experts in the field
- Peer feedback and reflection
You learn by doing, supported by academic coaching and close collaboration with lecturers, practitioners, and researchers.
What kind of research will I do in STR?
Research in the STR programme is practice-oriented and impact-driven.
You will learn to:
- Analyse transition challenges using both scientific frameworks and practical fieldwork
- Engage with stakeholders and co-create knowledge
- Use systems thinking and backcasting methodologies
- Translate insights into actionable strategies for business and society
Your research contributes not only to academic understanding, but also to the renewal of professional practice in sustainability transitions.
What is the expected level upon graduation?
Upon completing the STR Master’s, you will have acquired both theoretical depth and practical capabilities to operate at Master’s level (EQF 7) in professional environments.
You will be able to:
- Operate effectively in complex, interdisciplinary settings
- Lead or contribute to sustainability-driven change processes
- Apply advanced transition thinking in real-world contexts
- Integrate applied and academic research methods
- Navigate uncertainty, system complexity, and stakeholder dynamics
- Communicate and collaborate across cultures and sectors
- Continuously reflect on your role and professional development
Why choose the STR Master at Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences?
Because STR is more than just a degree — it’s a mission-driven learning experience. You will:
- Work with real stakeholders on transition challenges
- Develop skills that are highly relevant for the future of work
- Gain tools to lead or support meaningful change
- Be part of an international, interdisciplinary community
- Learn from both academics and professionals in the field
Choose STR if you want to turn knowledge into action, connect the theory and practice, and become a professional capable of shaping a more sustainable future.