Spring 2026
Please note that the language classes will be offered in-person, with the option to join via Zoom. Please contact the instructor for more information.
I. Dutch Language Courses:
DUTCH 1 – Elementary Dutch
Prerequisites: None
In this beginner’s course, students will familiarize themselves with the basics of Dutch: its sounds and spelling, its grammatical structure, and its vocabulary. The class focuses on oral communication with an emphasis on vocabulary: learning words and learning how to use these words. By reading texts and dialogues (and listening to the audio version), students will build their vocabulary. In class they will get the opportunity to practice their newly learned words and phrases. By the end of the semester, students will be able to express themselves in speaking and in writing about a variety of topics, including introducing yourself, time, living, studying, traveling, and talking about present and past situations.
Esmée van der Hoeven, M-W 12-2P + F 1-2P, 5 units.
DUTCH 2 - Intermediate Dutch
Prerequisites: Dutch 1 or equivalent
In Dutch 2, students’ knowledge of Dutch vocabulary and grammar will be expanded and put into practice. As in Dutch 1, the focus lies on further developing speaking and writing skills. Each week is dedicated to a theme, which forms the heart of the readings and discussions. Students will be able to engage in conversations in Dutch and write about various topics covered in class. Topics include geography of the Netherlands, the Dutch cuisine, history, painting in the Golden Age, the constitutional monarchy, national holidays and traditions, Vincent van Gogh, and more. Students will conclude this semester by giving a short presentation in Dutch.
Esmée van der Hoeven, M-W 2-4P + F 2-3P, 5 units.
DUTCH 125 - Conversation and Composition
Prerequisites: Dutch 110 or equivalent
In this advanced language course we proceed with the patterns of Dutch 110, although instead of giving frequent presentations, the emphasis will now be placed on weekly writing assignments and intense conversation. Students will be introduced to different types of texts and will learn different styles and practices in writing. A reader with various reading materials (i.e. articles, book reviews, literature, and scholarly pieces) will form the basis for the writings and conversations.
Esmée van der Hoeven, M-W-F 4-5P, 4 units.
II. Courses in Dutch History, Culture, Linguistics and Literature: (in English)
DUTCH 161AC Multiracial Americans: The History and Future of Racially-Mixed Communities in the United States
In this course, we study three multiracial communities with a Dutch-American connection, one that identifies as African American, one as Native American and one as Asian American, and take these cases as a point of departure for a broader discussion on the history and future of racially-mixed people in American society. This focus is important considering that people of mixed race have experienced a long history of discrimination in the United States. Racial mixture was long associated with degeneration, and racial theorists claimed that it weakened physical, intellectual and moral qualities such as strength, endurance, honesty, and even fertility.
Jeroen Dewulf, Tu-Th 12:30-2P, 4 units.
DUTCH 166 Anne Frank and After: World War II and the Holocaust in the Netherlands
This course deals with the occupation of the Netherlands by Nazi Germany in World War II and the Holocaust, with a special focus on the Anne Frank's diary. We will discuss literature, film and historiography with a focus on anti-Semitism, collaboration and resistance as well as the postwar discussion on guilt and responsibility. All materials will be in English, no knowledge of Dutch is required.
Jeroen Dewulf, Tu-Th 9:30-11A, 4 units.
DUTCH 179 Cultural Studies: Regions and Globalization
The aim of this course is to better understand the interdependence of regions and globalization from an economic, political and cultural perspective. It is designed as a multidisciplinary exploration suitable for students from diverse academic backgrounds. Although the main focus will be on Belgium, the course will also pay attention to other multilingual and multiethnic countries. No prior knowledge or foreign language skills are required.
This class will be taught by visiting professor Mark Vancauteren.
Mark Vancauteren, Tu-Th 2-3:30P, 4 units.