In early 2008, the fourteen Dutch universities officially signed the University Teaching Qualification agreement (UTQ). This means that professionalism is mutually recognized and that lecturers with a UTQ certificate are considered to be qualified for academic teaching by all participating institutions.
Document: University Teaching Qualification agreement [PDF]
In mid-2010, the ad hoc Commissie Docentprofessionaliteit [committee for the professionalization of lecturers] made the recommendation that not only new lecturers but current ones too should gain a UTQ certificate. A University-wide abbreviated qualification programme for lecturers with more than five years teaching experience could relatively easily demonstrate their competences. The enclosed memorandum describes the quality requirements for University of Groningen lecturers.
Document: final recommendation of the committee for the professionalization of lecturers [PDF]
The Board of the University and the Committee of Deans approved the registration procedure in late 2010, which means that it can now be implemented under the responsibility of the faculties. This will be facilitated via centrally provided tools to support faculties and lecturers in the implementation.
Document: proposal for introduction of UTQ registration [PDF]
