sunny houses amsterdam netherlands
Amsterdam, Netherlands

Social Sciences + Humanities

Study Program

Dates

-

18 weeks

Costs

Credit

22.5 semester hours

15 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Apply Now

Request Information

Contact Us

Dates

-

18 weeks

Costs

Credit

15 semester hours

22.5 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Apply Now

Request Information

Contact Us

Dates

TBD

Credit

15 semester hours

22.5 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Apply Now

Request Information

Contact Us

Tentative Dates

-

18 weeks

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Contact Us

Overview

Bring your interest in the Dutch language, society, politics, and culture to the multicultural city of Amsterdam! As one of the most historically rich cities in all of Europe, the capital city of the Netherlands can act as the perfect backdrop to your immersive semester abroad. Designed for students across various social sciences and humanities disciplines, this rigorous academic program allows you to choose from multiple courses, including political science, sociology, anthropology, European studies, film studies, history, international relations, media, psychology, cultural studies, and more.  

When class is in session, you'll study at our partner host institution, the University of Amsterdam (UvA). You can also take classes at CIEE Amsterdam, a quick walk from the UvA and the historic city center. All courses are taught by highly qualified CIEE and UvA faculty. Outside the classroom, you'll have the opportunity to participate in CIEE excursions and activities to enhance your studies and provide a nuanced intercultural perspective of the Netherlands, particularly to scrutinize preconceived cultural notions.

Unique Experiences

COMMUTE AND CRUISE AROUND BY BIKE

– it’s the Dutch way – and the best way to get a closer and fast-moving perspective of this multicultural city

GET A MULTINATIONAL PERSPECTIVE

by studying side by side with the many international students enrolled at the University of Amsterdam

LIVE LIKE THE LOCALS

by going on a bike tour, attending a special exhibition at the Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk Museum, or another world-class institution

1753

BRIDGES

180

NATIONALITIES

1.3 M

ANNUAL VISITORS TO THE ANNE FRANK HOUSE

Experience
  • amsterdam bridges nighttime dusk lights
  • trip to leiden amsterdan netherlands

Your Destination

If you find yourself wondering why it’s so easy to feel at home in Amsterdam, chalk it up to “gezellig.” Roughly translated, that’s Dutch for cozy or home-like – a sensibility commonly associated with this city. Compact and easy to navigate by bike or on foot, the city center of Amsterdam is home to more than 6,000 historic buildings dating as far back as the 16th century. It’s loaded with charm and treasures, from the gabled houses that stand shoulder to shoulder along the canals, to glorious masterpieces by Van Gogh, Rembrandt, Matisse, and the like. What's more, CIEE Amsterdam is conveniently located across the street from the University of Amsterdam in the tranquil Plantage neighborhood, where students can easily drop in to speak to CIEE staff, study, or simply hang out in the student area between classes.

 

CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Amsterdam.

The Culture

groningen netherlands excrusion weekend students

OTHER EXCURSIONS & ACTIVITIES

  • Travel overnight to experience life in another Dutch city or slip out of urban life at a coastal preserve. 
  • Take day trips that highlight Dutch innovation and lived reality outside the city rings of Amsterdam by embarking on a winter getaway to the Frisian city of Groningen, an architecture and social housing-focused visit to Rotterdam, or a trip to Utrecht's working-class districts. 
  • Experience a world-class Dutch theater or dance performance at a historic concert hall. 
  • Join a story-telling tour experience told by former asylum seekers on a refugee boat used to transport hundreds of displaced persons into Europe  
  • Explore Amsterdam's world-famous canal belt on a private canal cruise or leave the city behind and paddle a canoe through the Amsterdamse Bos (Amsterdam Forest) 
  • Team up with a student coach from the UvA’s International Student Network (ESN), join the Dutch Buddy Program through the VU’s Erasmus Student Network (also called ESN), or enjoy city outings with your own group of international students at the UvA and the VU. 
students meeting table amsterdam ciee center

PROJECTS

  • Get to know Dutch youngsters by volunteering to teach English once a week at a local Amsterdam elementary or middle school. 
  • Join one of several weekly activities! From exploring Amsterdam’s multicultural composition, to its status as a global culinary capital or a hub for business innovation, there’s a way to pursue nearly every interest and explore nearly every facet of Amsterdam. 
  • Take part in a Power and Privilege workshop to explore the uneven distribution of power and privilege in the Netherlands along gender, race, and class lines. 
  • Lend your voice to the Student Representative Council and help shape CIEE Amsterdam’s activities and programming. 

Program Blogs

From CIEE

Packing it All In: What To Take With You For Your Time in Amsterdam

By CIEE Amsterdam at CIEE

By Jojo Macaluso Before coming to Amsterdam, I’ve never been outside of North America. Never taken a flight alone. Never had a bilingual conversation (unless you count high school French... keep reading

From CIEE

Experiential Learning in Amsterdam

By CIEE Amsterdam at CIEE

If there's one thing you'll come to realize after studying abroad (and specifically in Amsterdam), it's that difference matters. When one pictures the Netherlands, it's hard not to immediately think... keep reading

The Student Representative Council

By Lucine P.

The Student Representative Council, or SRC, was the first opportunity to get involved with the CIEE community that I had heard of in preparing to leave for my study abroad... keep reading

What People are Saying

  • "It was the experience of a lifetime to study abroad and CIEE is what made this experience possible."

    Kaleinani N., Occidental College

  • "They did a good job of keeping us busy enough during orientation to facilitate friendships and sustained their involvement throughout the program which was nice."

    Alma P., Wesleyan University

  • "I had a great time this semester and I'm really glad that I chose CIEE."

    Cole L., Wesleyan University

  • "The staff was incredibly helpful and kind in every way and with any problem!"

    Elizabeth J., Vassar College

Housing
Academics

Academics

This program invites students to study a range of social science and humanities courses at CIEE Amsterdam and University of Amsterdam (UvA). Semesters at UvA consist of three 8-week blocks but CIEE students are only present for the first two blocks. Courses run either for one or two blocks. Students can also take CIEE classes which are taught at two locations in the vicinity of the UvA Roeterseiland campus. 

University of Amsterdam (UvA) is the third oldest university in the Netherlands and one of the largest universities in Europe with over 30,000 students divided over seven major faculties. 

Dutch Language Institute at the University of Amsterdam (INTT) offers Dutch courses at all levels to students of the University of Amsterdam and other highly educated foreign language speakers. 

CIEE Amsterdam is conveniently located across the street from UvA in a thriving, student-friendly neighborhood with cafés, restaurants, and picturesque canals. 

GPA

3.0

Language Requirements

There are no specific language requirements for this program.
 

Additional Requirements

Students must be juniors or seniors when the program starts.

Please refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Requirements

  • Students must take at least one course at the University of Amsterdam (UvA) but the remainder of the classes they take can be CIEE courses. 
  • Students should take at least two classes in each block.

Program Credit

Total credit: 15 U.S. semester/22.5 quarter
 

Course Credit

  • CIEE courses: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 45 contact hours 
  • University of Amsterdam courses: typically, 3-6 U.S. semester/4.5-9 quarter credits; 30-60 contact hours

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Academic Culture

Classes are held Monday through Friday. Students should be ready to take initiative and approach coursework more independently than they may be accustomed to.

Class Format

While CIEE classes are composed only of CIEE students, classes at the University of Amsterdam usually feature a combination of Dutch students and international students from all over the world. Classes typically meet twice a week for a lecture and discussion session. While discussion sessions are capped at 25 to 30 students, lectures can be significantly larger.
 

Grading

Grades are based on a range of assessment methods, including presentations, papers, and oral or written exams, along with class participation. University course grades are awarded on a scale of 1-10, which CIEE will convert to a U.S. letter-based scale. The U.S. grading scale of A-F is used for CIEE courses.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Language of Instruction

English

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Courses

Course Information

 Course Notes

  • The UvA semester runs on a block system and CIEE students are present only for the first two of the three semester blocks. The fall semester is the 1st semester of the academic year and therefore starts with block 1. The spring semester is the 2nd semester of the academic year and therefore starts with block 4. 
  • Most CIEE courses run during the first two blocks of the semester. 
Course
Language
Semester Credit

Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Communication, Journalism, and Media

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Health Professions and Related Programs

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Languages and Cultural Studies

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Psychology

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Social Sciences

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Communication, Journalism, and Media

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Health Professions and Related Programs

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Languages and Cultural Studies

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Psychology

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Social Sciences

Course
Language
Semester Credit

UNIVERSITY OF AMSTERDAM COURSES (SUBJECT TO CHANGE) 

The following list of courses constitutes a representative sample of course offerings through the University of Amsterdam and is subject to change. Not all courses listed are offered every semester, and some courses have pre-requisites. The final list of courses is made available before the semester begins. 

College of Social Sciences 

  • Interdisciplinary Studies 
  • Political Science 
  • Gender and Sexuality Studies 
  • Social Geography and Urban Planning 
  • Sociology 
  • Communication Science 
  • Cultural Anthropology 
  • Child Education and Development 

View online Course catalog 

Faculty of Humanities 

  • Arts, Religion and Cultural Sciences 
  • Dutch Studies 
  • History 
  • Archeology and Area Studies 
  • Language and Literature 
  • Media Studies 
  • Philosophy 
  • Modern European Languages 

View online Course catalog 

UNIVERSITY OF AMSTERDAM - DUTCH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE COURSES 

Beginners 
For those who understand some Dutch but are incapable, or almost incapable, of making themselves understood in Dutch. The main objectives of the course are to help participants acquire a basic vocabulary of Dutch, enable them to understand simple spoken and written Dutch, and teach them how to make themselves understood in elementary spoken and written Dutch. 

Pre-Intermediate 
For those who have a global understanding of simple, everyday Dutch, and can make themselves understood in simple, everyday Dutch that is still full of mistakes. The aim of the course is to help participants extend a basic vocabulary of Dutch, enable them to understand simple spoken and written Dutch, and teach them how to make themselves understood in simple spoken and written Dutch. 

Intermediate 
For those who have a reasonable understanding of everyday Dutch and of Dutch used in the media and can make themselves understood in simple everyday Dutch but still make many mistakes. The aim of the course is to help participants extend a basic vocabulary of Dutch, enable them to understand spoken and written Dutch in a variety of familiar contexts, and teach them how to make themselves understood in both spoken and written Dutch. 

Pre-Advanced 
For those who have a good understanding of everyday Dutch and of Dutch used in the media, and who can make themselves understood in everyday Dutch but still make quite a few mistakes. The aim of the course is to help participants to extend their vocabulary of Dutch, enable them to understand spoken and written Dutch in a variety of contexts, and improve their basic writing and speaking skills. 

Advanced 
Even those who have a thorough understanding of everyday Dutch and a good understanding of Dutch at an academic level still make systematic mistakes. Therefore, the advanced course can help those students who have a Dutch language background but are still looking to improve. Objectives of the advanced level are to improve participants’ writing and speaking skills. Some attention is paid to reading, listening, and extending vocabulary. 

Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.

Scholarships

Scholarships & Grants

CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.

Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:

  • Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
  • Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Grants
  • CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
  • MSI Grant

To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.

Learn more about scholarships

Dates & Fees

Dates & Fees

You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.

Program

Application Due

Start Date

End Date

Fees & Housing

Program Spring 2024 18 weeks Application Due Deadline Passed Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $22,950
Program Fall 2024 18 weeks Application Due Deadline Passed Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $22,950
Program Academic year 2024-2025 Application Due Deadline Passed Start Date * End Date TBD*
Program Spring 2025 18 weeks Start Date * End Date *

*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.

To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300*

Educational Costs = $14,706**

Housing = $7,750

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $22,950

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $1,238

International Airfare = $1,250††

Local Transportation = $700†††

Books & Supplies = $200

Visa Fees = $200

Personal expenses = $250††††

Other = $200

Total Costs = $4,038

Optional Housing

CIEE accommodation options are detailed in the Housing section. Based on availability, Select or Select Plus Housing can be chosen during the application process for an additional fee:

Select Housing Fee = $750^

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*non-refundable

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

For students in homestays, families provide breakfast. For students in residence halls/apartments, you should budget approx. $371 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.

††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

†††This would cover six round trips per week from students' housing to the UvA campus/the CIEE classroom

††††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

^first-come, first serve, based on availability

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300*

Educational Costs = $14,706**

Housing = $7,750***

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $22,950

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $1,238

International Airfare = $1,250††

Local Transportation = $700†††

Books & Supplies = $200

Visa Fees = $200

Personal expenses = $250††††

Total Costs = $3,838

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*non-refundable

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***breakfast and one other meal per week are included in the homestay option; no meals are included in the residence hall option

For students in homestays, families provide breakfast. For students in residence halls/apartments, you should budget approx. $371 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.

††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

†††This would cover six round trips per week from students' housing to the UvA campus/the CIEE classroom

††††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

What's Included

Tuition

Housing

Pre-departure Advising

Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions

Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet

Orientation

Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city

On-site Staff

Full-time program leadership and support in your city

Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities

Excursions and/or Study Tours

Travel Protection

CIEE iNext travel protection

24/7 emergency on-site support

Staff

Our Staff

Gildas Fresneau

Center Director

Gildas holds a master’s degree in European Law from the University of Rennes (France). He worked in many roles within international higher education before joining CIEE as Center Director.

Cathelijn Kuis

Student Life Director

Cathelijn studied Journalism (BA) and American Studies (MA) at the University of Utrecht.

Merve Erdogan

Academic Director

Merve studied Sociology, Public Administration, and Political Science and obtained a Masters degree in Communication Science. She worked as a lecturer and academic tutor and is currently working as Academic...

Get Started Steps

Get Started

Here’s what you need to do to take the next steps:

1

START AN APPLICATION
You're one step closer to an amazing study abroad experience!

2

CONNECT WITH YOUR CAMPUS STUDY ABROAD OFFICE 

Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.

3

CONTACT US

Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.

Request Info