Degree and Diploma
When you graduate, you are entitled to a degree or a title. The degree is awarded by Fontys.
Associate degree
- If you pass the exam of an Associate degree programme, you will receive the degree Associate Degree. The abbreviation is Ad, and no additional qualification is added.
Bachelor’s degree
- If you pass a bachelor’s degree programme, you are entitled to carry a bachelor’s degree. Fontys maintains a register listing all the degrees offered by Fontys. You can use an abbreviation for your degree after your name: a “B” followed by an abbreviation. For example, “Bachelor of Education” becomes “B Ed.”
- You can also choose to use the (old) title “baccalaureus,” which is placed as “bc” before your name.
- Graduates from the technical domain can use the title “ingenieur,” abbreviated as “ing.,” placed before their name.
- When using a title or degree, you must choose between a title or a degree. Both cannot be used simultaneously.
Master's degree
- The hbo master’s degree can also be indicated in your name, abbreviated as “M” with any additional qualification, placed after your name. There is no (old) title available for the hbo master.
Certificate of higher professional education
A certificate of higher professional education is awarded to you when you graduate. The government has set conditions regarding the level, quality, and reliability of certificates. The program you have completed is accredited by the NVAO, and in conjunction with the government’s requirements, the value of a certificate becomes clear. The certificate you receive is a valuable document. Every certificate issued by Fontys has security features.
- A micro text in the square purple area of the logo at the bottom of the document;
- A silver foil strip on the right side of the document with a cut-out of the monogram of Fontys Hogescholen;
- The unique paper number of each certificate is also executed in laser perforation. When in doubt about the authenticity of the document, you can request verification at Fontys Hogescholen;
- The paper has a worldwide protected watermark.
In addition to the certificate, you will receive a diploma supplement.
Once you have passed, a notification is sent to DUO. You will then be recognised by DUO as a graduate.
Suspicion of fraud
If there is suspicion that someone is carrying a paper resembling a Fontys certificate without proper authorisation, it is important to report this to Fontys. An investigation is always conducted into the suspected fraudulent diploma, and sometimes it leads to prosecution. Diploma fraud is a form of forgery and is punishable under the Criminal Code.