Education Abroad & Exchange - Rijksuniversiteit Leiden

Rijksuniversiteit Leiden

Overview

Leiden University was founded in 1575 by Prince William of Orange, who offered it to the citizens of leiden as a reward for their valor against the Spanish armed forces. Today, Leiden's campus is a fascinating blend of old and new architecture that remains a living legacy to the scientific and artistic development that crowned Holland's Golden Age in the 17th Century. There are approximately 17,000 students currently enrolled in the University's nine faculties (Archeology, Arts, Creative and Performing Arts, Law, Medicine, Maths and Natural Science, Philosophy, Social and Behavioral Sciences, and Philosophy. Leiden also has a School of Management and a School of Education.

Location

Leiden is a medium-sized town situated at the center of the political, cultural and economic heart of the country, 17 km northeast of the Hague and 41 km southwest of Amsterdam. Particularly appealing are the historic buildings, alms houses, fortresses and botanical gardens that characterize the town. Full of recreational possibilities—close to dikes, dunes, beaches and the North Sea—this region is also a good jumping-off point for more extensive European touring.

Leiden is a typical university town and has a rich student life, including many cultural and recreational activities. The University sport center offers various outdoor and indoor facilities. International student societies also offer social activities for both international and Dutch students. Many students are members of a students association, and international students can also opt for a Leiden student mentor.

Curriculum

Leiden offers a selection of courses in English in Dutch culture and government, art history, Dutch politics, Dutch law, European politics, European Community law, etc. There are also electives available in postcolonial literature, philosophy, and environmental policy. Many of the classes are upper level and require considerable background in the subject. Dutch language and culture classes are available for additional fees during the semesters, and Intensive Dutch Language sessions are available for 4 weeks in August and January, before the fall and spring semesters begin.

Housing

The International Student Housing Office (www.leiden.edu/studenthousing/) of Leiden University assists in finding housing for study abroad students in a variety of locations. Typical accommodation consists of furnished bed/study rooms with shared kitchens and baths in student houses. Applicants pay a €500 service fee to the International Office, which is later converted into a room deposit once a contract with the housing agency has been signed. The remainder of rent will be paid upon arrival in Leiden.

Eligibility

Open to UMass Amherst, MaCIE, and Five-College students in good academic standing, with 3.2+ GPA and background in the field of study.

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