Programme description
The MA Dutch studies programme is a continuation of the BA programme. During the four semesters, students develop their academic skills, broaden their knowledge of literature and linguistics, as well as advance their command of the Dutch language (target proficiency C1) and learn Afrikaans basing on their knowledge of Dutch. They develop their academic interests and skills during Master seminars and proseminars and write MA theses.
Candidates are required to hold a BA diploma in Dutch studies or a BA diploma in other field, provided they demonstrate a sufficient command of the Dutch language (B2 level) and are interested in Dutch culture. Candidates holding a diploma in fields other than literature and language studies/philology will be tested on this knowledge during an admittance interview.
Classes are taught by lecturers who are native speakers of Dutch (from the Netherlands and Belgium) and Afrikaans, as well as by Polish teachers of Dutch and South African studies. Our staff includes academic teachers who combine their expertise in Dutch studies with other specialties such as, English, German, Iberian and Ibero-American, Slavic studies, architecture, art history, psychology, etc., which ensures our courses’ interdisciplinary character. Moreover, during their studies, the students participate in meetings with representatives of Dutch, Flemish and South African businesses operating in Poland and get familiar with selected aspects of literary and non-literary translation.
Our graduates demonstrate a solid knowledge of language, literature, and culture of the Dutch language area and South Africa. They are open to professional development and well equipped to face the challenges of the modern dynamic work market. They have a good practical command of Dutch and of at least one additional foreign language, as well as cultural competence allowing them to work in a multinational environment. Moreover, they are prepared to conduct academic research and pursue PhD studies.
Example of courses
- Dutch as a foreign language
- Dutch studies and job market
- Literary translation
- Non-literary translation
- Methodology of research
- Contemporary Afrikaans literature
- Applied linguistics
- Proseminar - literature or linguistics
- MA seminar
Graduate competencies
- Proficiency in the Dutch language (C1).
- Very good command of an additional foreign language, knowledge of Afrikaans.
- Knowledge of culture of the Dutch-speaking countries and South Africa.
- Intercultural competencies.
- Awareness of the complexities of international and local job markets.
- Knowledge of the fundamentals of literary and non-literary translation.
- Academic skills and academic knowledge of literature and linguistics.
Career prospects
- Work in business sector, where an excellent command of Dutch – and usually also of English – is necessary.
- Work in cultural institutions, publishing houses, and mass media.
- Work as translators and interpreters.
- Work in tourism.
- Work as a Dutch language teacher (after additional courses, post-graduate programmes etc.).
- Academic career.