Dutch Studies (BA)

Extra challenge

Academy of Creative and Performing Arts (ACPA)

Are you interested in combining your Leiden humanities bachelor's programme with courses in the fine arts? With the Academy of Creative and Performing Arts (ACPA) it’s possible! ACPA is a research institute, a collaboration that combines the strengths of Leiden University and the Royal Academy of Art The Hague. In addition to research, ACPA is an intersectional organisation that offers arts education for students of Leiden University and academic education for students of the arts. Alongside research and education, ACPA also organises cultural events that connect art and science. 

More information about the Academy of Creative and Performing Arts

The continuation of Practicum Musicae and Practicum Artium (courses offered under the umbrella of ACPA) from the 2026–2027 academic year onwards is currently uncertain due to internal decision-making. Because of this uncertainty, we are unable to organise admissions for the 2026–2027 academic year.

In the video below you will meet four students, two of them doing a Practicum Musicae (one piano and one jazz singing) at the Royal Conservatoire and two of them doing a Practicum Artium (one painting and the other doing photography) at the Royal Academy of Art. You’ll find out what they like about these programmes, and how they combine it with their studies at Leiden University.

Honours College

Do you think you can take on an additional challenge that will help you get the most out of your studies? If so, join our Honours College and develop your talents to the fullest. The Honours College is an extracurricular programme that has been specifically designed for bachelor’s students who can and want to do more. In this small-scale programme, you will receive excellent guidance and teaching. You will discover talents you didn’t know you had. The Honours College will award you extra study credits, as well as a certificate if you complete it. The Honours College starts in the second half of the first year with an orientation course and lasts until the end of the bachelor’s programme.
 

As a student of the Faculty of Humanities, you can attend the Honours College programme of your own faculty. However, it is also possible to attend a programme of one of the other faculties.

Humanities Lab

The Humanities Lab is the Honours programme of the Faculty of Humanities. The humanities are the field of study that includes everything that makes humans human. We have different cultures and languages. Different groups have their own histories, which they tell stories about. We produce and enjoy music, theatre, paintings and films. All these typical human activities and their products are studied in the humanities, and have been studied for centuries.

In this programme, you can either dive into a subject in more detail or expand your horizons. A wide range of elective topics allows you to explore the differences and similarities between the humanities, social sciences and life sciences. You receive challenging, intensive instruction in small-groups, from top scholars who have established strong reputations in education and research.

The programme includes elements like guest lectures, seminars and excursions. For example, you can learn how to make a documentary, design an opinion page or draft a policy document. It gives you the opportunity to gain valuable practical experience, which also enhances your regular degree programme.

• Location: Leiden
• Language: Dutch and English
• Open to all bachelor's students of Leiden University

For more information, visit humanitieslab.nl.