Afrikaans and Dutch

The Department of Afrikaans and Dutch at Stellenbosch University is a vibrant centre of expertise that bridges local and global linguistic fields. Our work, grounded in rigorous research, supports studying and teaching Afrikaans and Dutch literature, linguistics and applied disciplines. We offer a wide range of academic and practice-oriented programmes, emphasising multilingual education and preparing students to excel in diverse areas of language and communication.
 

Our curriculum invites you to explore Afrikaans and Dutch through immersive language, literature and linguistics courses. Whether you’re drawn to creative writing, translation, interpreting or editing, our programmes seamlessly blend theoretical insights with practical skills, opening doors to exciting career opportunities in linguistics. By forging global connections and engaging with dynamic local practices, our department empowers you to shape a meaningful future in language and culture.
 

Contact us
+27 21 808 2158
[email protected]

Physical address
Room 680
Arts and Social Sciences Building
Corner of Merriman Avenue and Ryneveld streets
Stellenbosch 
 

“...our programmes seamlessly blend theoretical insights with practical skills, opening doors to exciting career opportunities in linguistics.”

Our​​​​ Programmes

Undergraduate programmes

Our undergraduate programmes cater to different language backgrounds and interests. 

  • Afrikaans Language Learning is ideal if Afrikaans is not your home language or if you want to build your proficiency in the Afrikaans language and culture.
  • Afrikaans and Dutch is designed for students with Afrikaans Home Language or First Additional Language experience who wish to focus on literature and linguistics.

Postgraduate programmes

Advance your expertise with postgraduate studies in the Department of Afrikaans and Dutch.

  • Afrikaans and Dutch: Literature, linguistics, and cultural studies.
  • Creative Writing: Develop and refine your writing craft.
  • Language Practice (Translation): Professional skills for multilingual communication.
  • Lexicography: The art and science of dictionary-making 
     

Short courses

Improve your skills with our short courses in language practice and acquisition. Designed for flexibility. These postgraduate courses are delivered through distance education with two compulsory on-campus contact sessions per semester. Gain advanced knowledge while balancing your studies with other commitments.

Learn Dutch

Our Dutch programmes are tailored for Afrikaans speakers with an intermediate language understanding. You can choose between two beginner-friendly courses designed to explore the similarities and differences between Dutch and Afrikaans. These courses help you build a solid foundation in Dutch for communication and professional development.