Dutch as a Foreign Language and Applied Communication

What 

'Dutch as a Foreign Language and Applied Communication’ is a one-year academic program that provides foreign students with the unique opportunity to engage in an intensive and advanced study of Dutch as a foreign language, all within the environment of a Dutch-speaking region.

In our Dutch language acquisition courses, especially those courses at CEFR levels B2 and C1, we focus specifically on applied communication. This includes business communication (such as email etiquette, active participation in meetings, and digital communication in a professional setting), communication on societal topics (including engaging in debates) and academic communication skills.

Our language courses are based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Candidates have to choose between two specialisations, tailored to the candidates’ prior knowledge of Dutch:

1. Specialization ‘Dutch Proficiency Level: CEFR B2’ is designed for candidates who have already achieved a CEFR level A1 in Dutch. In this track, candidates can elevate their proficiency to CEFR level B2.
2. Specialization ‘Dutch Proficiency Level: CEFR C1’ is intended for candidates who have already attained a CEFR level B1 in Dutch. In this track, candidates can advance their skills to reach CEFR level C1.

Alongside the language courses, the programme also encompasses a number of theoretical courses on applied linguistics, on Flemish society and culture and on computer-assisted language mediation. In the elective space, students passionate about translation can cultivate a solid foundation in translation skills. For those with diverse interests, alternative courses from Ghent University’s offerings are readily available.

On successful completion of the pro­gramme, students will be awarded the International Postgraduate Certificate in ‘Dutch as a Foreign Language and Applied Communication’.

For whom

The admission requirements depend on previous degrees (type of degree, country of issue, etc.) or additional experience. Our program is specifically tailored for students holding an academic bachelor’s or master’s degree in the fields of Humanities or Social Sciences, with a notable enthusiasm for languages. Knowledge of English (CEFR level B2) and some prior knowledge of Dutch (at least CEFR level A1) is also required. Are you wondering if your specific degree qualifies you for the programme? Do not hesitate to contact chloe.lybaert@ugent.be.

No prior knowledge of Dutch?
If you have no prior knowledge of Dutch but are keen to participate in the program, you have the option to enrol in an intensive Dutch as a second language course at the University Language Centre in Ghent in summer or during the month of September. Please note that the expenses for this course would be your responsibility.

Information on admission requirements and the administrative procedure for admission on the basis of a diploma obtained abroad, can be found on the following page: www.ugent.be/prospect/en/administration/enrolment-or-registration

Structure

The study programme amounts to 60 credits in total:

The International Postgraduate Programme ‘Dutch as a Foreign Language and Applied Communication’ is specifically tailored for students holding an academic bachelor’s or master’s in the fields of Humanities or Social Sciences, with a notable enthusiasm for languages. This program caters to students who aspire to (1) advance their understanding of the Dutch language and (2) cultivate substantial applied communication and translation competencies.

Labour Market

The International Postgraduate Programme ‘Dutch as a Foreign Language and Applied Communication’ is specifically de­signed for students who aspire to study the Dutch language and further develop robust communication and/or translation competencies, or embarking on a professional career in Dutch-speaking countries like Belgium or the Netherlands.

Quality Assurance

At Ghent University, we strive to educate people who dare to think about the chal­lenges of tomorrow. For that purpose, we provide education that is embedded in six strategic objectives: Think Broadly, Keep Researching, Cultivate Talent, Contribute, Extend Horizons, Opt for Quality. Ghent University continuously focuses on quality assurance and quality culture. The Ghent University’s quality assurance system offers information on each study programme’s unique selling points, and on its strengths and weaknesses with regard to quality assurance.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in the fields of Humanities or Social Sciences;
• English: CEFR level B2 (you can find the accepted English language certificates here);
• Dutch: depending on the selected specialization, prior knowledge at CEFR level A1 or B1 is required. The evaluation of Dutch language proficiency is determined by examining the contents of your file, which includes the courses you have completed and your prior educational background. If your current Dutch language proficiency is not verified, you have the option to take a language test, at the end of June or the beginning of September. If you find yourself in this situation, please get in touch with Chloe Lybaert for further assistance.

Application deadlines

• For students who need a visa: 1st of April
• For students who do not need a visa: 1st of June

Contact

Get in touch with Chloe Lybaert.