University of Applied Sciences graduates immediately employable in shortage sectors such as healthcare and education

Graduates from universities of applied sciences (Dutch: hoger beroepsonderwijs, abbreviated as hbo) not only quickly find employment but also fulfil crucial roles in healthcare and education - sectors that form the backbone of our society and currently face significant staff shortages. These findings are highlighted in the HBO Monitor 2024, an annual study conducted by the Research Centre for Education and the Labour Market (ROA) commissioned by Dutch universities of applied sciences. The Monitor underscores the importance of hbo education for a resilient future labour market. Particularly in times of staff shortages, hbo graduates are essential to keeping vital public services operational.

Strong labour market position, even in challenging times

Graduates from universities of applied sciences typically transition smoothly into the labor market. Over 85% find immediate employment, and 70% have secured permanent contracts within one and a half years after graduation. In the current economic climate, employers have become somewhat more cautious about hiring new staff due to economic uncertainty and rising costs. Nevertheless, the labour market position of hbo graduates remains robust, thanks to their practical orientation and broad employability. Especially hbo master’s graduates are performing well, showing the lowest unemployment rate (2.5%) and the highest proportion of permanent contracts (80%). Their combination of work experience and specialized knowledge makes them particularly attractive in a tight labour market.

Essential in critical sectors

hbo graduates are indispensable in sectors like education and healthcare, as demonstrated by recent figures:

• In education, unemployment is just 1%, and 97% of graduates secure employment immediately.
• The healthcare sector shows similar figures: 1.2% unemployment and a 94% immediate employment rate.
• Starting salaries and satisfaction with the alignment between education and employment are also above average in these sectors.

These figures reflect the substantial societal demand for well-educated professionals and clearly demonstrate that hbo graduates effectively fill these roles. Particularly in sectors experiencing the most pressure, hbo graduates quickly step into roles and remain sustainably employable.

Vocationally oriented and future-proof

The HBO Monitor indicates that hbo programs effectively prepare graduates for professional practice:

• 78% of graduates state their work matches hbo-level education,
• 77% work within their own or a related field,
• and 70% believe their education provides a strong foundation for further professional development.

Regional ties and versatile employability

Three-quarters of hbo graduates remain employed within 50 kilometres of their institution, highlighting the regional connectedness of universities of applied sciences and their ability to meet local labour market needs. For regions outside the Randstad, this demonstrates the crucial role of hbo in providing qualified personnel locally. Additionally, the Monitor shows that hbo graduates possess broadly applicable skills such as independent working, teamwork, and effective communication. These skills enhance their flexibility across diverse roles, contributing significantly to their sustainable employability.

“hbo graduates are not only well-prepared for their professional roles but actively contribute to addressing societal challenges such as teacher shortages, pressures in healthcare, and the energy transition,” says Barbara Belfi, project leader of the HBO Monitor. “The figures confirm what many already experience in practice: without hbo professionals, society would grind to a halt.”

About the HBO Monitor

The HBO Monitor is an annual survey among graduates of Dutch universities of applied sciences, carried out by ROA at Maastricht University. For the 2024 edition, nearly 24,000 alumni completed the survey. The research provides insights into unemployment, employment conditions, the alignment between education and work, and skill development, thus contributing to shaping future-proof higher professional education. The HBO Monitor serves as a vital resource for universities of applied sciences, policymakers, and employers to continually enhance the connection between education and the labour market.