University of Twente to Launch First Bilingual Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology in 2025

University of Twente to Launch First Bilingual Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology in 2025

(IN BRIEF) The University of Twente has announced the introduction of a bilingual Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology for the 2025-2026 academic year, becoming the first program of its kind at the university. This initiative, approved by the University Council, will offer courses in both English and Dutch. While lectures will remain in English, students opting for the Dutch track will participate in tutorials, group work, and assessments conducted in Dutch, allowing for two-thirds of the program to be completed in the native language. This change aims to address growing demand for Dutch-language training in psychology and enhance enrollment, as the program currently accommodates around 165 first-year students. Program director Christina Bode highlighted the importance of this bilingual approach in meeting societal needs and increasing accessibility for students and employers alike. The application deadline for the program, which has expanded its numerus clausus to 450 places, is January 15.

(PRESS RELEASE) ENSCHEDE, 4-Oct-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — The University of Twente is excited to announce the introduction of a bilingual Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, set to launch in the 2025-2026 academic year. This groundbreaking initiative will make the program the first bilingual offering at the university, accommodating students in both English and Dutch to meet evolving societal demands and the preferences of students and employers alike.

Following the University Council’s approval this summer, the transition to a bilingual curriculum has cleared the final hurdle. While lectures will continue to be delivered in English, students opting for the Dutch program will have access to tutorials, project group work, and assessments conducted in Dutch. This development means that two-thirds of the bachelor’s program can now be pursued in Dutch. As is customary in academia, much of the specialized literature will remain in English.

Program director Christina Bode emphasized the rationale behind this important change, stating, “We do not wish to ignore the ongoing political and social discussions about balancing internationalization in higher education. Our program is deeply rooted in society, and offering a bilingual option presents numerous benefits. Currently, we are the only psychology program in the Netherlands that does not provide a Dutch course option, despite a clear demand. This bilingual approach will not only assist students interested in psychology but also appeal to employers looking for professionals fluent in both English and Dutch. Moreover, with our new specialization program in Dutch focusing on mental health services, the introduction of a bilingual psychology program will create a cohesive link between the two offerings.”

In terms of student enrollment, Bode noted that the shift to a bilingual curriculum is expected to expand the first-year intake. With approximately 165 students currently enrolled and limited capacity for growth, she remarked, “To ensure we can continue to provide a comprehensive curriculum and all specializations, we need to nearly double our intake. While implementing this bilingual program will entail changes, including enhancing our international lecturers’ proficiency in Dutch, they are fully supportive and eager to develop their skills.”

The University of Twente’s Psychology program aims to cultivate future-oriented psychologists. Students will not only delve into psychological theories but also engage with practical applications, such as utilizing health apps and virtual reality to facilitate behavioral changes. They will gain hands-on experience in the state-of-the-art facilities within the Faculty of Behavioral, Management, and Social Sciences (BMS), where academic knowledge is applied in real-world contexts. Graduates will be well-prepared for careers in mental health services, business, or government, equipped to operate in international settings and multidisciplinary teams. The combination of psychological theory and practical experience ensures they are ready to deliver innovative and effective solutions, giving them a significant advantage in the job market.

The Psychology program has expanded its available slots for the numerus clausus to 450, with the application deadline set for January 15. For those interested in pursuing a future-oriented career in psychology, this new bilingual program represents a unique opportunity to study in one of the Netherlands’ leading institutions.

Media Contact:

K.W. Wesselink – Schram MSc (Kees)
Science Communication Officer
+31 53 489 9311
k.w.wesselink@utwente.nl

SOURCE: University of Twente