Dutch Studies (BA)
Programme structure
The Bachelor of Dutch Studies offers you a unique programme in which you quickly acquire fluency in spoken and written Dutch at a high academic level, at the same time gaining deep understanding of the culture and history of the Netherlands.
Programme outline
Dutch Studies is a great example of the Dutch phrase klein maar fijn: small-scale, but delivering the best possible quality. Each year around 30 international students with a passionate interest in Dutch language and culture take part in the three-year bachelor of Dutch Studies at Leiden. In this programme you swiftly learn spoken and written Dutch at a high level; at the same time you gain academic, practical, and professional skills so that upon graduation you can choose your path. Further study, perhaps in a research master? Or work as a translator, NT2 teacher, consultant or in international business? Your choice.
Some of the courses
Our teachers are experts in language acquisition. You will get to practice regularly with your fellow students as well as native Dutch speakers, ensuring you acquire a high-level of proficiency.
You will explore fascinating questions in the topic Linguistics, including whether it is harder to learn Dutch if your mother tongue language is Japanese rather than Swedish, and if there really exists such as thing as a ‘knack for languages’.
The courses on Dutch Literature will give you an overview of the history of Dutch literature and the opportunity to read and dissect the most important literary works.
This course deals with Dutch history from approximately 1780 until now. Attention is spent to political, socio-economic, religious and cultural aspects. Which political incidents were of great importance to the Dutch identity? And how are these incidents remembered to date?
In your classes on Art History we focus on understanding the phenomenon of famous Dutch artists and their impact.
Detailed programme
Below you can find an overview of the curriculum. For a detailed description of the courses, see the Prospectus. Please note that this guide applies to the current academic year, which means that the curriculum for next year may slightly differ.
How do you fill in your electives?
The third year of your programme offers more flexibility and freedom of choice, with one half of your study credits (EC) in both your first semester (normally spent abroad) and the second semester (back in Leiden) coming from elective courses. This includes courses offered in other programmes. You may also chose special packages in Dutch Literature, Linguistics, History or Art History. Alternatively it is possible for you to organise an internship.