English Language and Culture

Although admittedly many people speak a bit of English, this knowledge hardly compares with what the Leiden programme in English Language and Culture has to offer. Not only are our students taught to speak and write fluently in English, they also gain insight into the structure and the development of the English language. Apart from its focus on the rich English literary tradition, ranging from the 8th century AD until today, the program also concentrates on the literary masterpieces originating in the USA and other former British colonies. Most importantly, though, our students are taught to think critically and to write well, right from the start.

Due to the richness and variety of American literature, many students choose to follow the optional course in American Studies (Amerikanistiek), which focuses on the literature and history of the USA.

The Bachelor’s Programme

The improvement of proficiency in the English language is a major focus of the programme, taking up a quarter of the course load of the first year. The remainder of the first year courses concentrate on theoretical linguistics (courses in phonetics and syntax), literature (cultural background, introduction to the literature of the Renaissance and the 18th century). During the second half of the programme, students further specialize in linguistics, philology or literature.

See for more information the department website (in Dutch) or the timetables (partly in English)

Practical study

Following the basic programme, the English Language and Culture programme can be combined with one of the 'practical studies' or PraktijkStudies (International Management & Culture, European Union Studies, Journalism and the New Media, Book and Publishing or the Educational minor) or with other options and, possibly, an internship.