Saxion University of Applied Science

Mission Statement

At Saxion University of Applied Sciences, we aim to use our talent and knowledge to contribute to a sustainable, digital, and safe society. We believe that building a better world for tomorrow requires a transformation in how we think, learn, and act—together. This includes addressing urgent challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, resource scarcity, and the well-being of both humans and animals.

We want Saxion to be a place where talent for the future is nurtured in every possible way:
– Through passionate and expert lecturers
– Through leading practice-based research
– Through modern, future-oriented education

To meet the needs of a rapidly changing labor market, we continuously innovate and expand our educational programs. Our ambition is to become one of the leading universities of applied sciences in the Netherlands, serving as a strong connector between talent and the future.

International Role

The societal challenges our students will face after graduation are not limited by borders. Whether working regionally, nationally, within Europe, or globally—today’s professionals need intercultural skills and international awareness to make a meaningful impact.

At Saxion, we encourage students to connect their personal development with the international context in which they will apply their knowledge and skills. We promote intercultural collaboration and help students prepare to contribute to solutions for major global challenges such as climate change and the energy transition.

Our involvement in the European university alliance E³UDRES² enhances both education and research by fostering collaboration across borders. Through this partnership, we actively contribute to a more open and connected European educational space.

To support talent development in internationally oriented sectors facing labor shortages, we offer a growing number of English-taught bachelor programs. At the same time, we recognize the importance of the Dutch language for working in the regional labor market. That’s why we also invest in Dutch language education for international students, building a strong language bridge to strengthen regional ties.

National Role

Saxion is deeply rooted in its three locations: Enschede, Deventer, and Apeldoorn. Each location contributes to the university's mission in a unique way.

• In Enschede, Saxion is strongly embedded in the regional innovation ecosystem. The city is known for its focus on technology, entrepreneurship, and collaboration with industry and startups. Saxion contributes through strong ties with local partners and an active role in applied research and innovation.
• In Deventer, our focus lies on sustainability, circularity, and spatial development. The city offers a fertile ground for collaboration with local government, businesses, and civil society in shaping future-proof living environments.
• In Apeldoorn, we are expanding our educational offering to meet the needs of the regional labor market. In the coming years, Saxion will grow into a fully developed third campus location here. We also aim to strengthen the transition from bachelor to master programs, further enhancing lifelong learning opportunities.

Main Focus

At Saxion, our Interior Design program trains students to become socially engaged and proactive designers. They learn to creatively translate a client's needs and wishes into meaningful and sustainable interior solutions.

The curriculum covers a broad range of topics, including interior architecture, spatial research, sustainability, entrepreneurship, materials, and lighting. This enables students to grow into well-rounded professionals who can communicate effectively with all relevant stakeholders and contribute to innovative design processes.

Both students and staff work closely with companies and professional designers, gaining valuable insights and experience from the field. The strong ties between our program and the professional practice offer excellent opportunities for knowledge exchange, networking, internships, and future employment.

Currently, we offer a Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design and an Associate degree in Interior Brand Identity.