Samenvatting

Purpose
The purpose of this report is to research the possible effects of the English language in the study program European Studies on the Dutch language proficiency of the Dutch students. European Studies is a four years bachelor program at The Hague University of Applied Sciences. The central question of this research is: ‘How do Dutch European Studies students at The Hague University of Applied Sciences experience the effects of their English study program on their Dutch language proficiency?’

Methods
To answer this question, research was conducted among the Dutch European Studies students with an online survey. Secondly, relevant information from desk research was used and the ideas and knowledge of interviewed specialists in higher education and internationalization. Two of the three interviewees are employed at The Hague University of Applied Sciences and one specialist is currently active in The National Dutch Students Union.

Findings
The results from the conducted surveys, desk research and interviews showed important outcomes:
1- Dutch students experience a diminishing in the quality of their Dutch language.
2- Dutch students are educated as generalists and they can adapt easily to different situations.
3- There are significant differences between the general, academic and professional language.
4- European Studies can be described as a study program where the English language is suitable for the nature of the study and the focus of the program is very clear on the international working environment.

Recommendations
All the information from the surveys, desk research and interviewed specialists led to the conclusion that the Dutch students experience effects on their Dutch language proficiency. Looking into the theories this could especially become a problem for the professional Dutch language proficiency and the use of the academic Dutch language. These aspects of language are only trained in English in the study program. Therefore, it is advisable to offer more training in Dutch professional and academic language skills, this in order to prepare the students for the Dutch working environment. Lastly, it is as well strongly recommended to do more research on how European Studies graduates experience their language skills in their working environment.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-janssen-4441b4a9/