Going Dutch: Culture and Society of the Netherlands

⚠️ Special feature: *CREDIT* Dutch language course!

This prediction by Johan van Veen, the hydraulic engineer who masterminded the Delta Works which prevent the North Sea from flooding the Low Countries, constitutes just one of the many paradoxes that characterise The Netherlands and its human populations.

From the very beginning of the country’s existence as the Republic of the Seven United Netherlands in 1581, the character of “the” Dutch has been defined by a multitude of contradictory stereotypes and self-images, not all of which are firmly rooted in facts. In this course, you will explore the facts behind the history and distinctive characteristics of the country and its populations, as well as the narratives through which they construct their self-images and their position in the world.

For whom?

The University Minor Going Dutch: Culture and Society of the Netherlands primarily caters for international degree students who have “gone Dutch” in the sense that they currently live and study in Groningen. Individual courses are open to exchange students (Erasmus+). Dutch or Dutch speaking degree students may enroll in this Minor as well.

Language of instruction

The language of instruction in all courses in the core programme (except for the language proficiency courses) is English, but Dutch is used as a language of communication (reading, speaking, writing) where necessary and possible. All non-Dutch/non-Dutch speaking students take mandatory language proficiency classes in Dutch. Naturally, the language level of Dutch of the participating students is always taken into account.

Overview of courses

Registration

Students have to register for the whole Minor as well as for the course units of their choice within the Minor via Ocasys in Spring. More information about the enrolment procedure.

More information

For any questions, please contact the Minor Coordinator: Femke Kramer (f.l.kramer rug.nl).