Introduction to the Netherlands

If for some reason we had to choose just one country in Europe to focus on for Beyond the States, it might be the Netherlands. Now, I’m glad we don’t have to make that choice. Because as you know there are incredible choices throughout many of the European countries.

If for some reason we had to choose just one country in Europe to focus on for Beyond the States, it might be the Netherlands. Now, I'm glad we don't have to make that choice. Because as you know there are incredible choices throughout many of the European countries. 

But what makes the Netherlands unique is that they really do offer English-taught programs in just about every field of study you can think of, including liberal arts. They have a really incredible education system countrywide. And they have two different types of admissions requirements, which makes studying in the country attainable for students with a wide range of qualifications. Actually, they were the first non-English speaking country in Europe to offer full degree programs in English. And they also have the greatest number of English-taught programs in the EU, other than Ireland of course with more than 350 offerings. This is almost three times as many as the other countries that have a really high number of programs. We'll get into all of that in the course. 

Lesson 1

First, we're going to talk generally about the Netherlands and the Dutch education system. 

Lesson 2

Then in Lesson Two, we're going to get into specific information about each of the universities of applied sciences. 

Lesson 3

Lesson Three, we'll do the same for research universities. And we'll end that lesson by looking at the differences in a program that's offered at both types of universities. Make sure to put up your map, which is in the downloads here, if you're interested in seeing where in the country each of the schools we talk about is located. 

Lesson 4 and 5

Lessons Four and Five is going to look at country-specific aspects of academic life and student life. 

Lesson 6

Then Lesson Six is going to walk you through the admissions process.

Lesson 7

And Lesson Seven we'll look at budget and financial information. 

So it is a course packed full of information, and I hope you enjoy it.

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