Dutch and English

Dutch and English brings together the languages and literatures of two closely related but distinct traditions, offering a degree that develops genuine linguistic competence alongside a broad engagement with the cultures, histories and literatures that English and Dutch carry. Dutch is the native language of around 25 million people in the Netherlands and Belgium, and a working knowledge of it opens access to a small but economically significant and culturally rich region of Europe. English, as the world's most widely used language of international communication, offers a literary and cultural tradition of extraordinary breadth and depth.

At University College London this four-year full-time programme is divided equally between the two subjects. On the Dutch side you will study language skills including speaking, listening, reading, writing and translation, alongside cultural modules in literature, history, film, linguistics and politics designed to complement your language learning. On the English side you will engage with the full range of the literary tradition, developing close reading and analytical skills.

A year abroad is built into the programme, spent in a country where Dutch is spoken, which is transformative both linguistically and culturally. The programme offers a wide variety of modules, allowing you to tailor your degree to your specific interests.

Graduates with Dutch and English are well equipped for careers in translation, international business, journalism, education, the civil service, cultural organisations and industries with significant European operations. The combination of languages and the cultural breadth developed on the degree supports a wide range of professional pathways. Many graduates also pursue postgraduate study in languages, linguistics, translation or European studies.