European Languages and Cultures - Dutch as a foreign language

Would you like to become an expert on the cultures, languages and politics of Europe?

Dutch language and culture play an important role worldwide. Whoever masters Dutch and knows Dutch culture has gained socially valuable knowledge. You will develop knowledge of the significance of Dutch culture in Europe in the past and the present as well as explore the current and past role of the Netherlands as a mediator in Europe.

By studying the key linguistic, political, cultural and social topics of contemporary Europe, you will learn to understand the mutual relationship, differences and similarities among national and regional cultures. In doing so, you will learn to understand future challenges and inform advanced decision-making in cultural, political and educational institutions.

Language, literature and diplomacy

Historically, the Netherlands has played an important role as a mediator in Europe. In the seventeenth century, the Republic became a refuge for all those who had to flee their own countries due to their political or religious convictions. Even today, the Netherlands is active internationally, for example with the International Criminal Court in The Hague. Translations form an important part of the Dutch book industry, for instance, while foreign debates on language and culture are meticulously monitored and commented on. At the same time, exports are important for the Netherlands – not only tulips and cheese, but also Dutch fashion, architecture and literature are in great demand across the globe. Dutch writers such as Nooteboom, Grunberg, Haasse, Rijneveld and Koch are highly appreciated abroad. Dutch culture does not stand alone, and therefore it requires international academic study.

After your Bachelor’s degree

The unique Dutch as a second Language programme prepares you for a number of jobs at home and abroad, both in culture and in business. The Bachelor’s programme grants access to multiple Master's programmes. Graduates are experts in Dutch language and culture, contribute to cross-border communication and foster the relations between the Netherlands and other countries. Government, international business, diplomacy and the non-profit sector all have a growing need for academically trained Dutch-language specialists able to build bridges across different cultures and fields of knowledge.

The programme has a flexible structure. From your second year onward, you will specialise in one of the profiles:

• European Language and Society
• European Culture and Literature
• European Politics and Society