Hogeschool Tio (Tio University of Applied Sciences)

Introduction

Tio Business School, formerly Tio University of Applied Sciences, founded in 1969, is a premier private institution in the Netherlands, specializing in business, hospitality, tourism, and event management. With campuses in Amsterdam, Utrecht, Rotterdam, Eindhoven, Hengelo, and Groningen, Tio serves approximately 2,000 students, including a growing international cohort. Renowned for its small-scale, high-quality education, Tio consistently ranks #1 in the Netherlands for its bachelor’s programs according to the Higher Education Guide (Keuzegids Hbo). Its mission to provide “personal, excellent, and entrepreneurial education” fosters ambitious professionals ready for global careers. This presentation explores Tio’s history, academic programs, and key highlights that define its impact.

Historical Background

Founded in 1969 in Hengelo by VVV-Director D.J.F. Wilmink at the request of the tourism industry, Tio (Toerisme Informatie Opleiding, or Tourism Information Education) addressed the need for specialized training during the tourism boom of the 1970s. Initially a trade school alongside AVR and AVV vocational schools, Tio became a private institution after government subsidies ended in the late 1980s. Under the leadership of father and son Duthler in the 1990s, Tio acquired AVR, AVV, and Tunon (a hospitality school), expanding its scope. In 2020, Tio joined the Salta Group, with Katinka Reuling as director until Frans van Kreuningen took over in 2024. Tio’s legacy lies in its entrepreneurial spirit and top-rated programs in business and hospitality.

Academic Programs

Tio offers nine bachelor’s programs, two associate degrees, one MBA, and vocational (MBO) programs across business, hospitality, tourism, and event management. Most bachelor’s programs are available in English and Dutch, with accelerated options allowing completion in three years. Classes average 11 students, ensuring personalized attention from lecturers with extensive industry experience. Programs are accredited by the Dutch-Flemish Accreditation Organisation (NVAO) and emphasize practical skills through projects, internships, and international opportunities.

Bachelor’s Programs

International Business Management (BBA): This three-year, English-taught program covers finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship. Students manage investment portfolios or conduct business projects, preparing for careers in consulting, multinationals, or startups.
Hotel and Event Management (BA): Focusing on hospitality and event planning, this program includes practical training in Tio’s restaurant classroom and internships at top hotels or event agencies, preparing students for roles in hospitality or event coordination.
International Tourism Management (BA): This program explores global tourism trends, with projects like organizing international trips. Students gain international experience through internships or study abroad, preparing for careers in travel agencies or tourism boards.

Master’s and Other Programs

Master of Business Administration (MBA): Launched in 2021, this one-year program focuses on strategic leadership and innovation. It includes global business projects, preparing graduates for senior management roles.
Associate Degrees: Two-year programs in International Business and Hotel and Event Management offer a faster route to professional roles, blending theory and practice.
Vocational Programs (MBO): One- to two-year programs in hospitality and tourism train students for operational roles, with a focus on practical skills like front-office management.

Faculty and Research

Tio’s faculty comprises industry professionals with master’s degrees, bringing real-world expertise to the classroom. While Tio focuses on applied education rather than extensive research, it collaborates with industry partners like ABN AMRO and Hilton to develop curricula and projects. The university’s practical approach ensures relevance to current industry needs, with faculty contributing to fields like business management and hospitality innovation.

Highlights

Rankings and Recognition

Tio’s bachelor’s programs have ranked #1 in their fields for 12 consecutive years in the Higher Education Guide (Keuzegids Hbo) and score highly in the National Student Survey (NSE). It is recognized as the best small-scale university of applied sciences in the Netherlands.
Tio holds NVAO accreditation and memberships in the Netherlands Board for Training & Education (NRTO) and the International Network of Certified Hotel Schools (INCH).

Internationalization

With an extensive international network, Tio partners with universities like Stenden Qatar and Hotelschool The Hague, offering study-abroad and internship opportunities in Europe, Asia, and beyond. All students gain international experience through global projects or exchanges. The International Office supports visa processes, achieving a 99% student visa acceptance rate.

Student Life and Facilities

Study Associations: The student association L.S.V. Cognatio, founded in 2005 with over 900 members, organizes social events, sports, and networking opportunities across Tio’s six campuses.
Campus and Resources: Tio’s campuses feature modern facilities, including restaurant classrooms, cooking studios, and study booths. The Amsterdam campus offers table tennis, foosball, and a cafeteria for social interaction. Students access a digital library and free university library memberships.
Housing and Support: Tio assists international students with housing in Utrecht and Amsterdam (starting at €1,200/month for visa holders). On-campus dormitories accommodate up to 300 students, and partnerships with Casa Academica provide additional options. Tuition ranges from €20,900/year (bachelor’s) to €22,900 (MBA), with scholarships like the GEMS discount available.

Innovation and Industry Ties

Tio’s entrepreneurial approach allows rapid adaptation to industry needs, with partnerships including KLM, Marriott, and TUI. Students undertake high-quality internships and projects, such as managing hotels or organizing events, ensuring career readiness. Tio’s affiliation with the Salta Group enhances its resources and industry connections.

Historical and Cultural Heritage

Tio’s origins in the 1960s tourism boom are preserved through its focus on practical, industry-driven education. Campuses in historic cities like Utrecht and Amsterdam, near landmarks like the Dom Tower, enrich the student experience. Annual events like open days and trial study days celebrate Tio’s vibrant community.

Practical Learning

Tio’s small classes (average 11 students) and interactive methods, like role-playing and business games, emphasize hands-on learning. Students participate in projects like running a student company or managing investment portfolios. International internships and an honours program further enhance practical skills.

Conclusion

Tio Business School, founded in 1969, is a leader in small-scale, high-quality education, preparing students for global careers in business, hospitality, and tourism. Its top-ranked programs, from International Business Management to the MBA, blend personalized learning with practical experience. With a vibrant international community, modern campuses, and strong industry ties, Tio offers an unparalleled educational experience. Whether drawn to its entrepreneurial spirit, accelerated programs, or global opportunities, Tio is the gateway to a successful future in a dynamic world.