Academics
Courses at Leiden University
Leiden University is a lively, multicultural university. The university fosters international enrollment by offering a considerable number of courses in English. Currently, international students make up 10% of the total student population. The renowned university faculty members encourage independent, critical thinking.
Students on the Maryland program have the opportunity to take courses in the following disciplines:
- Archaeology
- Asian Studies
- Biomedical Studies
- Dutch Language and Culture
- English Language and Literature
- Law and Justice
- Political Science and the European Union
- Psychology
As Dutch is the official language of the Netherlands, most courses at Leiden are taught in Dutch. However, a number of courses available to international students are conducted in English.
Dutch Language Courses
Although not required, students are encouraged to take courses in the Dutch language and culture as a portion of their overseas curriculum. A basic understanding of Dutch makes life in Leiden more interesting and fulfilling.
Students on the Maryland program can choose between two types of Dutch language instruction: a three-week intensive language course, held before the start of the official university semester, and a beginner course held during term time that combines the study of Dutch language and culture. Students arriving with a basic understanding of Dutch or German are recommended to enroll in the intensive language course, rather than the beginner course during the semester.
Transfer Credit
At the end of the semester, all credits earned in Leiden will appear on the student's University of Maryland transcript as transfer credit. All UMCP students must discuss their course selections with their academic departments in order to determine how courses taken in Leiden will count towards graduation requirements. It is the responsibility of all non-UMCP students to obtain academic approval from an advisor at their home institutions. Non-UMCP students must also be in touch with a study abroad advisor at their home institutions.