Working at Stenden, your next career step!

Overview of Opportunities at Stenden University

Stenden University, integrated into NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences since 2018, stands as a leading institution in practical, industry-oriented education in the Netherlands. Located in Leeuwarden, Friesland, this university attracts professionals seeking dynamic roles in higher education. Jobs at Stenden University span teaching, research, and administration, emphasizing hands-on learning and international collaboration. With its focus on fields like hospitality management, tourism, business administration, and leisure studies, the institution offers positions that blend academic rigor with real-world application.

Known for innovative teaching methods such as the Hotel Simulation Lab and Problem-Based Learning (PBL), Stenden provides a unique environment for educators and researchers. The campus in Leeuwarden, a picturesque city with a rich Frisian heritage, fosters a supportive atmosphere for career growth. Professionals interested in higher ed jobs find here opportunities to contribute to a student body that is over 50% international, reflecting the university's global outlook.

History and Evolution of Stenden University

Founded in 1958 as a hotel school, Stenden University grew into a comprehensive applied sciences institution. The merger with northern Netherlands' NHL Hogeschool created NHL Stenden in 2018, expanding its reach across multiple campuses. This evolution highlights a commitment to adaptive education, responding to industry needs in Europe and beyond. Today, jobs at Stenden University benefit from this legacy, with roles supporting cutting-edge programs accredited by NVAO (Dutch-Flemish Accreditation Organisation).

The university's history underscores its emphasis on employability; graduates boast 95% employment rates within months. For job seekers, understanding this background reveals a culture valuing practical expertise over pure theory, ideal for lecturers with industry experience.

📊 Types of Positions at Stenden University

Careers at Stenden University include a variety of roles tailored to its applied focus. Common positions are:

• Lecturer (Docent): Delivering interactive classes in bachelor's and master's programs.
• Researcher: Conducting applied research in sustainable development and service innovation.
• Professor of Practice (Lector): Leading research groups on topics like circular economy.
• Administrative Staff: Supporting student services, international recruitment, and operations.
• Support Roles: Lab coordinators, career advisors, and IT specialists.

For more on types of university jobs, including adjunct and full-time options, visit our guide. Salaries follow the CAO-HBO collective agreement, with lecturers starting at scale 10 (€3,500+) and professors at 16 (€6,500+).

Definitions

To aid understanding of jobs at Stenden University, here are key terms:

• Hogeschool: Dutch term for university of applied sciences, focusing on professional bachelor's degrees unlike research universities (WO).
• Lector: Equivalent to professor of applied research, leading knowledge centers.
• CAO-HBO: Collective Labour Agreement for higher professional education, governing pay, hours, and benefits.
• Problem-Based Learning (PBL): Teaching method where students solve real problems, core to Stenden's approach.
• Simulation-Based Education: Using facilities like mock hotels for practical training.

Required Academic Qualifications, Research Focus, Experience, Skills, and Competencies

🎓 For lecturer jobs at Stenden University, a master's degree in a relevant field is essential, with PhDs preferred for research-heavy roles. Research focus areas include sustainable tourism (e.g., eco-friendly hospitality), digital transformation in services, and health innovation.

Preferred experience encompasses 3+ years in industry, publications in applied journals, and grant funding from EU Horizon programs or Dutch NWO. Skills include bilingual proficiency (Dutch/English), digital tool mastery (e.g., Canvas LMS), and PBL facilitation. Competencies valued: adaptability, international mindset, and student-centered mentoring. International candidates benefit from Stenden's 80+ nationalities on staff.

Admin roles require bachelor's in business or HR, with experience in higher ed compliance like GDPR and student visa processes.

Application Process and Tips

Applying for jobs at Stenden University involves these steps:

1. Search openings on the NHL Stenden career site or AcademicJobs.com.
2. Prepare Europass CV, motivation letter (1 page), and portfolio of teaching materials.
3. Submit via portal; expect 4-6 weeks for response.
4. Participate in interviews, often with a 20-minute demo lesson.
5. Receive offer with relocation support for internationals.

Tips: Tailor applications to Stenden's international focus—mention cross-cultural experience. Network via LinkedIn or campus events. Use free resume templates and proofread in Dutch/English. Highlight quantifiable impacts, like 'Developed PBL module increasing student engagement 25%.' Avoid generic letters; reference specific programs like International Tourism Management.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

🌍 NHL Stenden champions diversity through its International Office, recruiting 40% non-Dutch staff. Initiatives include:

• Gender equality programs aiming for 50% female leadership by 2025.
• LGBTQ+ support via ally networks and pride events.
• Accessibility for disabled staff with adaptive tech.
• Cultural competency training mandatory for new hires.
• Scholarships and mentorship for underrepresented groups.

Frisian roots blend with global ethos, creating inclusive spaces in Leeuwarden.

Work-Life Balance and Campus Life

⚖️ Dutch work culture shines at Stenden: standard 36-hour week (Mon-Fri, 9-17), 428 hours annual leave equivalent to 30+ days, and generous parental leave (16 weeks fully paid). Flexible hours and home-office options post-COVID support balance.

Campus life in Leeuwarden buzzes with canalside cafes, bike-friendly paths, and events like Knowledge Festivals. Facilities include simulation hotels, sports centers, and international cafeterias serving global cuisines. Staff enjoy professional development via Saxton seminars and wellness perks like yoga classes. The Frisian setting offers serene escapes, with nearby Wadden Sea UNESCO site for recreation.

Summary: Launch Your Career at Stenden University

Jobs at Stenden University offer rewarding paths in a vibrant, practice-driven environment. From lecturing in state-of-the-art sim-labs to pioneering sustainable research, opportunities abound. Explore higher ed jobs, career advice, university jobs, or post a job on AcademicJobs.com to connect with roles in Netherlands and beyond. With strong support for internationals and work-life harmony, Stenden is ideal for ambitious academics.