Universities propose measures to rebalance internationalization
These are the proposed plans of Utrecht University
The Universities of the Netherlands are proposing a package of measures to better control the influx of international students and to increase Dutch language proficiency among these students. In doing so, the universities are anticipating the Dutch Balanced Internationalisation Act. With these measures, the universities will address current issues while preserving the benefits of internationalization, with an eye for the job market and regional differences. What does this mean for Utrecht University?
One is seven students and one in five employees has an international background (for context, also see the facts and figures at the bottom of this text). Their presence is essential to Utrecht University. Their presence is greatly appreciated and contributes to an inspiring academic environment. Students learn to look beyond their own borders, gain different perspectives, learn to cooperate in an international context, and improve their language skills - a great foundation for the internationally oriented job market.
Preserving benefits, addressing issues
Utrecht University (UU) wants to preserve the benefits of internationalization, and continue to welcome international students and employees. At the same time, the goal is to address current issues. The intended measures below will now be discussed within the university. Ultimately, legal control instruments are essential for better control of the influx. Therefore, it is important that the Dutch Balanced Internationalisation Act (Wet Internationalisering in Balans, WIB) will be made final so that there is a clear framework for the proposed actions.
- In principle, the working language of Bachelor programmes at UU is Dutch. For the 4 English-language Bachelor programmes (out of a total of 46), the possibility of having tracks in Dutch is being explored in cooperation with other universities.
- Reducing the influx of international students by continuing to focus on quality in recruitment - the focus lies on offering good information and expectation management among prospective students (e.g. regarding housing).
- Administrative communication is always in Dutch, and additionally in English if required for functional reasons. All University Council (‘U-raad’) notes are bilingual.
- Promoting Dutch language skills among employees and students by offering the free language and culture course "Getting to know (the) Dutch". The possibility of a course offering Dutch for non-native speakers at A1, A2, B1 and B2 levels is also being explored. International council members will be offered a receptive Dutch course at C1 level.
- A good command of the Dutch language makes it easier for graduates to stay in the Netherlands. It increases the so-called stay rate.
Facts and figures - internationalization at UU
- At UU, about one in seven students is of international origin; about 15 percent. The university greatly values this diverse student population. Of the international students, three-quarters are from the EU; UU is required by law to admit this group.
- Some 21 percent of UU employees are international - 79 percent of UU employees are of Dutch origin.
- UU has a diligent language policy (PDF), with bilingualism as the starting point for the entire university.
- In principle, the working language of Bachelor programmes at UU is Dutch. As a result, the number of foreign-language Bachelor’s programmes is limited. Out of a total of 46 Bachelor's programs, UU has:
- 4 fully English-language Bachelor's programmes;
- 5 target language programmes (German language and culture, etc.);
- 7 programs with tracks in English in addition to tracks in Dutch.
- About 60 percent of UU master's programmes are in English (48 out of 78). This attracts international students and faculty members. UU does this because of the value it brings to academia and/or the labour market.