Dutch Studies (BA)

Why study Dutch Studies?

The historical, cultural and philosophical impact of the Netherlands and the Dutch language are internationally significant – but while virtually everyone can recognise a painting by Vincent van Gogh, few can pronounce his name correctly. That is where Leiden’s unique bachelor’s programme in Dutch Studies comes in. It is the only programme in the Netherlands for international students who wish to specialise in the Dutch language, culture, history and society at a high academic level.

One-year programme 

Are you unable to follow the full three-year bachelor’s Dutch Studies? If so, you have the option to follow our one-year programme. This programme is less comprehensive and allows you to combine language proficiency modules from the first or second year with other courses such as Art History and Dutch Debates.  

Read more about the one-year programme 

Curious? Try the Online Experience!

Wondering if Dutch Studies is for you? Dive into our Online Experience! Watch mini-lectures, tackle small assignments, and see what the first year is all about. This is an easy way to get a taste of the first year of our programme.

Why Dutch Studies at Leiden University?

• The only academic programme in the Netherlands that offers international students the opportunity to specialise in Dutch language and culture.
• Language immersion for rapid proficiency: from the first semester onwards you will attend classes that are taught in Dutch.
• Being part of Dutch student life will give you plenty of opportunity to get to know the Dutch and Dutch society. 
• Flexible study options depending on your ambitions and current level of Dutch, from absolute beginner to advanced.
• Study in the historic city of Leiden, the international centre of Dutch studies.

Perrine Servoin

First year student

"I enjoy learning a new language and getting to know the culture and history of a country. That was one of the main reasons why I decided to study Dutch Studies in Leiden. And why specifically the Netherlands? I'm from France, and the Netherlands seemed like an appealing place to live and study. I definitely wasn't disappointed - the Netherlands is so much more relaxed than France!"

Paul Dumais

Second year student

"I have a great love for languages and started learning Dutch and studying the culture a few years ago. That was in Canada, where I worked as a math teacher. The Netherlands fascinated me, and I wanted to learn more about it. So, I watched Dutch TV programs on the internet, read newspapers and books. After I retired, I wanted to study linguistics abroad. I researched many programs from various international universities and then came across Dutch Studies in Leiden. Although this was not a specific linguistics program, the study seemed very interesting to me. So, I enrolled and came to the Netherlands from Canada."

Rick Honings

Scaliger Professor

"The three-year BA Dutch Studies offers international students a unique chance to gain a specialised qualification in this rich and valuable knowledge area. During the programme you will rapidly develop proficiency in the Dutch language. You will also meet many Dutch students as part of your experience studying in the Netherlands and join a lively, welcoming international classroom full of ambitious students from all over the world."

Is this the programme for you?

The unique combination of Dutch Studies and your own native language and culture will equip you with the skills to build intercultural connections after your studies. 

• Are you fascinated by the Dutch language, history and culture?
• Do you want to learn Dutch at a high academic level or bring your current level of Dutch to a high level of fluency? 
• Do your ambitions include teaching Dutch, working in an international organisation connected to the Netherlands, or focusing on a specific aspect of the Dutch language or culture for a master's programme? 
• If your answer to these questions is ‘yes’, then Dutch Studies is for you! Check out the programme structure.