Dual Degree

Summary
This page describes what a Dual Degree entails and provides an overview of the programme structure, admission requirements, selection procedure and the associated roles and responsibilities. It also explains the value of a Dual Degree on the labour market. Finally, it describes the phases required for the development and implementation of the Dual Degree programme.

A Dual Degree programme is a generic educational concept that is applied internationally by several universities. Within Fontys, the programme was originally set up by Fontys Technology and was first run at Fontys Engineering before it was also implemented within Fontys ICT. The implementation of a Dual Degree programme is based on a formal agreement between Fontys and the relevant partner university, laid down in a Memorandum of Understanding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA). The MoA includes a detailed comparison of the partner university's curriculum with specific specialisations within Fontys ICT.

After an intake procedure, students from partner universities can enrol at Fontys ICT for 1, 1,5 or 2 years, after generally having completed 3 years of ICT studies at the partner university. The duration depends on the academic background, relevant practical experience and the results of the intake. Upon successful completion, they receive a diploma from both the partner university and Fontys ICT.

The programmes are tailored to the student's prior knowledge with programmes lasting 1, 1.5 or 2 years. The programmes may differ per partner university. The possible programmes are laid down in the MoA between Fontys ICT and the partner university. This is the result of the curriculum comparison carried out by the Curriculum development committee (OO). All admission requirements are also specified in the MoA. The final programme that the individual student will follow is determined on the basis of the agreement, the curriculum completed by the student, the results thereof, their portfolio, their letter of motivation and the results of the intake interview with the student.

An admission procedure at partner universities assesses students on the basis of:

• A GPA score. A fixed GPA standard is not easily comparable internationally and is therefore unsuitable as a strict admission requirement. Because admission and programme duration are determined on the basis of the intake interview and additional evidence, the GPA serves primarily as a guideline for partner universities to nominate stronger students.
• A pre-selection by the partner university, during which students receive information about the programme costs and the requirements set by the IND with regard to providing for their own livelihood.
• Language proficiency according to the rules laid down here.

Students are first selected and nominated by their home university. Application documents (motivation letter, list of grades, secondary education diploma, English IELTS language test [max. 2 years old], proof of practical experience, copy of passport) are submitted via StudyICT@fontys.nl. Selected students are invited for an intake interview at Fontys ICT. During the interview, knowledge, skills and motivation are assessed by two assessors: a domain expert and a representative of the Dual Degree team. Based on the interview, a recommendation will be made to the Examination Board, after which a binding proposal will be made to the student within two weeks of the intake.

Graduates receive two diplomas: one from Fontys ICT and one from the relevant partner university. This gives them a strong position in the international job market. Many alumni choose a career in the Brainport region, thereby strengthening the high-tech ecosystem and the collaboration between Fontys ICT and innovative companies.

Implementation follows a structured, multi-phase process — from market research to continuous evaluation. The Dual Degree Account Manager is responsible for partner relations and contract development. A different account manager may be responsible for each region/country. The Dual Degree Coordinator guides the students throughout the entire process, including evaluation during that period.

Phase 1: Preliminary Research and Analysis

Dual Degree Account Manager:

1. Conduct market research on potential partner countries and partner universities.
2. Nominate candidates from partner universities based on Fontys criteria.

Phase 2: Initial Contact and Exploration

Dual Degree Account Manager:

1. Contacts potential partners.
2. Prepares and supervises institutional visits.
3. Conducts curriculum quick scans on partners' educational programmes.
4. Determines possible matches for Dual Degree programmes.

Phase 3: Programme Development

Dual Degree Account Manager in consultation with the relevant CE(s):

1. Develops Dual Degree programme alignment.
2. Ensures curriculum equivalence and quality.
3. Draws up a model for credit and course alignment.

Phase 4: Contractual Phase

Dual Degree Account Manager & Fontys ICT Legal Advisor:

* Before the next steps can be taken, a one-off template for an MoU and/or MoA must be drawn up based on the most recently approved standard agreement, in accordance with the guidelines of JZ ICT.

1. Drawing up the MoA in consultation with the relevant Programme Manager (CE).
2. Processing feedback from partner universities.
3. Finalising with the necessary signatures and the correct administration of contracts.

Phase 5: Student selection

The Dual Degree Coordinator has overall responsibility and, depending on the capacity required, may delegate the screening/checking and interviews to a colleague who is familiar with the process.
Applications from non-EEA countries are always processed in accordance with the reference procedure (TBD), in addition to the following:

1. Assesses applications and performs a GPA check.
2. Optionally conducts a motivation screening (e.g. through accredited agencies).
3. Checks documents and portfolios.
4. Organises intake interviews.
5. Advises the Examination Board.
6. Submits a request to the relevant Examination Chamber (Examination Chamber D) for exemptions and processes admission decisions from the Examination Board.
7. Informs the ICT Student Desk about programme allocation.

Phase 6: Transfer and Evaluation

Dual Degree Coordinator:

1. Supervising the onboarding and integration of students.
2. Monitoring study progress and well-being.
3. Evaluating cooperation agreements and curricula.
4. Analysing study results.
5. Implementing improvements where necessary (together with all parties involved).

Dual Degree Account Manager

Responsible for initiating, developing and maintaining Dual Degree partnerships. This includes market research, partner selection, curriculum coordination, contract coordination, intake supervision and evaluation of account activities.

Dual Degree Coordinator

Responsible for onboarding and supporting students, monitoring progress, coordinating with coaches and lecturers, and contributing to the improvement of procedures and agreements.

Fontys ICT Legal Officer

Responsible for the authorisation and management of (framework) contracts.

Examination Board

Responsible for assessing exemptions and approving admissions.