Netherlands: International Perspectives on Sexuality and Gender

Coursework

The program includes a guest lecture series, which is presented by academics, professionals, and grassroots activists. Lecturers represent a range of disciplines including political science, anthropology, women’s and gender studies, queer theory, sociology, and sexology. Students also participate in a practicum or volunteer opportunity with a Dutch or international organization.

The following syllabi are either from a recent session of this program or for an upcoming session. Because courses develop and change over time to take advantage of dynamic learning opportunities, actual course content will vary from term to term.

The syllabi can be useful for students, faculty, and study abroad offices in assessing credit transfer. Read more about credit transfer.

Theory and Application of Feminist, Lesbigay, and Queer Studies – syllabus (PDF)
(GEND 3000 / 3 credits / 45 class hours)
The seminar presents an interdisciplinary look at selected topics in sexuality and gender. Topics include the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) movements, feminism in The Netherlands, sex education, sex work, sexual violence during conflict, marriage rights, and transgender issues.

Students attend a guest lecture series in which researchers, practitioners, and activists provide a broad range of perspectives on sexuality and gender in Dutch and international contexts. The lecturers represent a range of disciplines, including political science, women/gender studies, homo studies, media studies, and anthropology. Lecturers include prominent academics, professionals, and activists. Students also attend public lectures at the University of Amsterdam (UvA) presented by the Amsterdam Research Center for Sexuality and Gender (ARC-GS), the George Mosse Foundation, and UvA Pride.

The course also includes a mini seminar series on critical theory. This series explores multiple, often contradictory theories in describing and analyzing sexuality and gender. The focus of this aspect of the course is on the application of theory in the broader context and in relation to the student’s Independent Study Project.

Migration, Gender, and Sexuality - syllabus (PDF)
(GEND 3005 / 3 credits / 45 class hours)
This course examines migration and migrant communities in the Netherlands, focusing primarily on the more recent Islamic immigrants from Turkey and Morocco. The course explores how issues of gender and sexuality impact the migrant experience; the perception of these migrant communities by mainstream Dutch society; and Dutch political discourse on the intersections of migration, gender, and sexuality. During a two-week excursion to Morocco, students examine these issues from the context of one of the primary migrant-sending nations.

Introduction to Dutch Language - syllabus (PDF)
(DUTC 1000 / 3 credits / 45 class hours)
Emphasis is on a working knowledge of Dutch related to sexuality, gender, cross-cultural adaptations, and skills building. For example, students read a Dutch children’s book on sexuality while also learning vocabulary and basic grammar. Students are placed in beginning classes.

Research Methods and Ethics - syllabus (PDF)
(ANTH 3500 / 3 credits / 45 class hours)
A course in the concepts of conducting field research, research methodology, and research ethics particularly in an intercultural context. Course content includes topic selection and refinement; appropriate methodologies; field study ethics; the World Learning/SIT Human Subjects Review Policy; developing contacts and finding resources; developing skills in observation and interviewing; gathering, organizing, and communicating data. Each student engages in a practicum throughout the seminar (and may choose to continue the practicum for the Independent Study Project). Sample practica include creating a research report for an LGBT health foundation in Amsterdam or volunteering with an international reproductive rights foundation.

Students also attend an oral history workshop to develop interviewing skills. This workshop is especially useful for students incorporating life stories and personal narratives in their Independent Study Projects.

Independent Study Project - syllabus (PDF)
(ISPR 3000 / 4 credits / 120 class hours)
Conducted in Amsterdam or another approved location appropriate to the project. Sample topic areas: multicultural approaches to sex education and tolerance education; Dutch-Moroccan women’s conceptions of virginity; gay men and HIV testing; same-sex marriage.

Credits: 16

Duration: 15 weeks

Program Base: The Netherlands, Amsterdam

Language Study: Dutch

Prerequisites: Previous college-level coursework or other preparation in sexuality and/or gender studies, as assessed by SIT. Read more...