Do you know what level of English and Dutch is expected of you in your job? And how are your intercultural skills? As the UG is becoming increasingly international, it is important for many staff members to have certain language and intercultural skills. With the new Language and Culture Database, developed by HR and the Language Centre, everyone can now view the desired skills per job profile. This way, we can ensure more consistency and transparency in the guidelines!

The database is only accessible for UG staff members via MyUniversity:

How does the database work?

The database contains all job profiles at the University of Groningen. The database gives HR staff, managers, and staff members insight into the skills required for each job. The database is intended as a guideline and therefore does not set any hard requirements.

Language levels

The overview shows the highest language level required for the job. When you click on the job profile, the language levels per task will appear. Depending on your position in the organization and the tasks you perform, this language level can apply to English, Dutch, and/or another language. You can determine this for yourself by identifying the languages you use to interact with colleagues and students.

You will also find an explanation of each language level in the database. Click on a level to read the description.

Intercultural skills

For each profile, the database indicates whether intercultural competence is required. This is simply indicated by a 'Y' (Yes, required) or an 'N' (No, not required) in the last column of the database.

Testing or improving your skills?

Would you like to improve your language and/or intercultural skills after seeing the guidelines, or do you need to provide proof of your language level? The Language Centre has to offer a wide range of training courses in Dutch, English, Intercultural Competence, and more. We also regularly conduct language assessments for university staff members to determine their language level. Ask your manager or a training advisor at HR-Experts about the available training course options!

We offer several standard group training courses starting at different times throughout the year. Our training courses include:

• Dutch for non-native speakers , including:
  • Dutch for UG employees
  • Dutch for native speakers of German
  • Dutch for PhDs' and postdocs
• Dutch for native speakers , including:
  • Helder schrijven
  • Academische schrijfvaardigheid
• English , including:
  • General group courses
  • Conversation courses
  • Academic writing skills

Would you like to attend a tailor-made training course individually, or together with your colleagues? If so, please request a free intake interview so that we can identify your needs!