After successfully completing at least 180 ECTS credits, students obtain a bachelor degree. Professional bachelor degrees prepare students for specific professions in industry, education, commerce, health, etc. To that purpose, courses are practice-oriented and include periods of work placement. These degrees are only awarded by the university colleges. Some university colleges also offer advanced bachelor programmes, which cover at least 60 ECTS credits. Academic bachelor degrees, on the other hand, prepare students for studies at master’s level. These degrees are awarded by universities and some university colleges.

Master programmes are characterised by the integration of education and research and a master’s thesis. They cover at least 60 ECTS credits. Depending on the field of study  programmes last longer. A master degree is required for admission to an advanced master degree. Master and advanced master programmes are organised at universities or university colleges in the framework of an association.

The Ph.D. degree or “doctor’s degree” is the highest level of specialisation in scientific research. It is based on an original research project that takes at least two years, resulting in the public presentation of the doctoral thesis. This degree can only be awarded by universities.

The diploma supplement is made up according to the recommendations of the Council of Europe, Unesco and the European Commission. It is an important tool to improve international transparency and fair recognition of qualifications in the European Higher Education Area by 2010. A diploma supplement is awarded to all students regardless the programme followed. It is free of charge and issued in Dutch and English.