By Michael Gille, Hamburg University of Applied Sciences (DE), and Johanna Krappe, Turku University of Applied Sciences (FI)
Recent Member State reforms clearly signal a growing recognition of Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS) as full actors in third-cycle education and research. Doctoral education at UAS is firmly rooted in application-oriented research and innovation at EQF level 8: it addresses concrete societal, technological, and industrial challenges, often in close connection with regional ecosystems. Cooperation with industry, public authorities, and civil society is not an add-on, but a defining characteristic—a model which creates a strong link between academic excellence and real-world impact. Across Europe, diverse doctoral models are taking shape, signifying an evolution in mission.
Cooperative doctorates with universities continue to play a central role in many higher education systems. At the same time, several Member States have taken decisive steps towards granting UAS the right to award doctoral degrees independently. Portugal, the Netherlands and Germany are prominent examples, while, e.g., Austria and Finland are engaged in intensive policy debates. Together, these developments reflect the growing research capacity, experience, and institutional maturity of UAS.
Applied, professional, and industrial doctorates respond directly to Europe’s strategic priorities. They strengthen regional innovation and smart specialisation strategies; they broaden access to doctoral education for diverse and non-traditional profiles. Interdisciplinarity and transdisciplinarity are integral, not optional. Flexible and work-based research pathways support inclusion and lifelong learning.
This evolution is closely aligned with emerging EU frameworks. Applied doctorates contribute to the Pact for Skills and the Union of Skills by developing advanced, practice-based competences. They support EU competitiveness by accelerating knowledge transfer and innovation uptake. They also echo the Draghi Report’s call for stronger links between research, industry, and productivity, reflecting the Letta Report’s emphasis on territorial cohesion, connectivity, and a more integrated Single Market for knowledge.
Quality remains central to this transformation. Robust supervision, critical research mass, and transparent assessment are essential. At the same time, qualitative impact, collaboration, and societal relevance must be recognised alongside academic standards.
These reforms mark a broader shift within the European Higher Education Area. Applied doctorates have the potential to become a cornerstone of a resilient, inclusive, and competitive Europe – training the next generation of researchers and innovators where knowledge meets practice.
View also: EURASHE webinar “Doctoral Education in Universities of Applied Sciences” (March 2025).