The challenge

Educating engineers for a rapidly changing world

NHL Stenden is firmly rooted in the region while operating through a global network approach, connecting education, research and professional practice in small, multidisciplinary teams. Within this environment, the Electrical & Electronic Engineering team focuses on developing curious students into capable electrical engineers who can turn knowledge into innovative solutions.

At the same time, the sector faces clear challenges. Although overall student numbers are declining, the demand for technically skilled engineers remains extremely high. The Engineering & Technology department is responding by introducing new programmes, such as the dual Associate Degree in Automation and Robotics, and by strengthening its learning environment.

Practice-based education plays a central role. Applied research forms the core of the curriculum, with students spending substantial time on projects ranging from racing robot cars to complex electronic systems. As Johannes Bruinsma, Sr Lecturer & Researcher at NHL University of Applied Sciences, explains:
“We are proud to educate students who not only gain theoretical knowledge, but also learn how to apply that knowledge in practice. This is reflected in the positive student evaluations we receive each year.”

However, the electronics lab was in need of renewal. The existing oscilloscopes showed signs of heavy use, and since this instrument is essential for Electrical Engineering education, it became clear that an upgrade was necessary.

The solution

Modern laboratories with the Tektronix MSO2

To ensure students work with state-of-the-art tools, NHL Stenden invested in a new lab setup and selected the Tektronix MSO2 mixed signal oscilloscope. The choice was driven by usability, performance and value.
“We want our students to work with state-of-the-art instruments, software and components,” says Johannes Bruinsma. “The MSO2 offers a modern user interface, extensive functionality and a sleek design, while remaining relatively budget-friendly with excellent specifications.”

The MSO2 is now embedded throughout the entire curriculum. First-year students use it to explore signals and basic circuits, second-year students design their own analogue and digital electronics, and in the final years the oscilloscope supports more advanced project work. Alongside this, NHL Stenden is developing dedicated teaching materials for the MSO2 and actively invites other institutions to collaborate.