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The Hague Summer School

Groep studenten voor het Mauritshuis

Other courses, Full-time

Type and variant

2 - 4 weeks, July

Duration and starting month

The Hague - Main Campus

Location

English

Lesson language

Other courses, Full-time

Type and variant

2 - 4 weeks, July

Duration and starting month

The Hague - Main Campus

Location

English

Lesson language

Duration & language

  • 2 - 4 weeks

  • English

Date & location

  • 1 July – 26 July 2024

  • The Hague, Main Campus

Courses on

  • Peace, Justice, Human Rights, Migration, Sustainable Development, Entrepreneurship, Global Citizenship

The program of The Hague Summer School (THSS) 2024 is currently being developed by our expert team and soon will be announced. The application for THSS 2024 will be open on the 1st of February, 2024!

To have an idea of what THSS looks like, we recommend you to explore our website, have a look at the program of THSS 2023 and see what our previous summer school participants coming from all around the world say about their Dutch experience.

Why choose The Hague Summer School?
  • You will gain an all-round ‘international classroom’ experience with fellow students, lecturers and professionals from different cultural backgrounds.
  • You will prepare yourself for a future international career, enrich your personal growth and develop your talents through teamwork, debate and sharing knowledge. 
  • Learn through practical experiences, real life cases and applying theories. 
  • You will make new friends for life from all over the world during your time in The Netherlands. 
  • Because of the location! The Hague is the United Nations City of Peace, Justice and Security, packed with 131 international institutions, 80 justice organizations, 300 international businesses and numerous NGOs. What’s more, it’s near the beach!
  • The Hague Summer School includes many field trips to these important international organizations. 
  • Accommodation and social activities included!

Are you interested in looking at global issues from an interdisciplinary perspective? Would you like to work together in international teams to develop your cross-cultural competences while making new friends and having fun? 

The Hague Summer School in the Netherlands is a cutting-edge two or four week modular programme, offering courses on crucial issues such as peace, justice and human rights (in the context of European Union cooperation and international relations), the impact of global migration and current trends in finance and economics. The practical application of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals is the common theme that forms the fundament of our summer programme. 

The Hague University of Applied Sciences encourages everyone to invest in change. We want to train students in becoming global citizens to improve the world we live in. There is no better place to learn and practice world citizenship than in The Hague, the International City of Peace and Justice and the political, cultural heart of the Netherlands.

Dates
  • 3 July to 14 July 2023 - First edition
  • 17 to 28 July 2023 - Second edition
  • 3 to 28 July 2023 - Follow both editions
Entry requirements

In order to  be admitted to The Hague Summer School, you will have to meet the following requirements:

  • First year of a bachelor programme completed.
  • Good working knowledge of English; CEFR level B2 or higher (no official certificate, such as IELTS or Cambridge, needed).
  • An application letter (400 words/1 A4) explaining your ambitions and motivation to participate in The Hague Summer School and the choice of your elective(s).
  • A complete online application.
Set-up The Hague Summer School 2023

Each edition of our summer school earns you 4 ECTS* credits. If you decide to join us for both editions, you can earn 8 ECTS!

All students will follow a general module together in the morning (1 ECTS), and select an elective module of their choice for the afternoon (3 ECTS). For short descriptions of the various modules, please go to During the programme.

General Module (1 ECTS): Exchange Perspectives for Local Impact in Collaboration

Elective modules (3 ECTS):

First Edition (3-14 July 2023) Second Edition (17-28 July 2023)
   
1. Peace, Justice, Human Rights & European Union Cooperation  1. Peace, Justice & Human Rights from a Global Perspective
2. The Local Impact of Global Migration  
3. Sustainable Entrepreneurial Thinking  
4. Current Trends in Finance and Economics  

N.B. If you decide to stay with us for both editions (which we highly recommend!), you can choose these elective modules independently. The content of the modules in the first and second editions do not overlap: you can apply the lessons learned in whichever first module to the contents of the second module of your preference.

* For more information on the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System, please visit https://education.ec.europa.eu/education-levels/higher-education/inclusive-and-connected-higher-education/european-credit-transfer-and-accumulation-system 

Content

Short description

Below you can find short descriptions of the courses you can choose during The Hague Summer School 2023. 

First Edition (3-14 July 2023)Second Edition (17-28 July 2023)
  
General Module (1 ECTS)General Module (1 ECTS)
  
Electives (3 ECTS):Electives (3 ECTS):
  
1. Peace, Justice, Human Rights & European Union Cooperation 1. Peace, Justice & Human Rights from a Global Perspective
2. The Local Impact of Global Migration 
3. Sustainable Entrepreneurial Thinking 
4. Current Trends in Finance and Economics 

Course descriptions

General Module: Exchange Perspectives for Local Impact in Collaboration (EXPLICO)

In this two-week module, students will explore the impact of a global challenge from different personal, cultural, local and disciplinary perspectives in a multidisciplinary and multicultural team. After identifying which Sustainable Development Goal(s) should be focused on and mapping out the different actors and their interconnected needs and interests, students zoom in on a beneficiary in the local community in The Hague to dive deeper into their experience and come up with a plan to make a difference. 

  • Elective 1: Peace, Justice, Human Rights & European Union Cooperation

This module focuses on Peace, Justice and Human Rights. The title reflects the status of the City of The Hague as the Legal Capital of the World. This first part of the course has a special focus on the contribution paid by European Union (EU) cooperation to peace and stability on the European continent. Next to lectures by experts on this topic, excursions will be organized to relevant institutions.

The following topics and activities will take place during this elective:

  • Origins: A History of the European Union
  • EU Institutions and the Structure of the Union
  • European Monetary Union and the Greek Debt Crisis
  • EU Energy Security
  • Russian-Ukrainian Relations until 2014 and why did Russia invade Ukraine?
  • European Cooperation
  • Visit to the House of Europe in The Hague.
  • Visit to the OSCE Office of the High Commissioner on National Minorities.
  • Visit to The International Criminal Court and/or The United Nations International Court of Justice.
  • Amsterdam Day

Click here for the course syllabus

  • Elective 2: The Local Impact of Global Migration

In this module we examine the consequences of migration in an urban context. We look at images, pictures, food, architecture and all other traces of migration in the city. We will compare and contrast these to other locations and to the literature and theories discussed in the lectures. Various excursions in and around The Hague will be used to illustrate the theories and concepts explained in the lectures. Guest speakers from different backgrounds will give insights in practical aspects and consequences of migration. 

Click here for the course syllabus

  • Elective 3: Sustainable Entrepreneurial Thinking

Do you want to understand how we can use our own skills to have a positive impact on our world and the challenges we face as a global society? Do you have what it takes to be an entrepreneur and contribute? Are you a critical thinker, a creative mind or a planner? How do your passions and skills align with the SDGs? If so, then this summer school module is perfect for you.

Click here for the course syllabus

  • Elective 4: Current Trends in Finance and Economics

In 'Current Trends in Finance and Economics’ you will embark on a journey through our monetary and financial system. Together we will explore how the system works today and discuss approaches on how to improve the system to make it more equal and sustainable. The programme consists of lectures and workshops provided by a broad range of speakers on a variety of topics such as the current state of the macro economy, the digitization of money, blockchain technology and integrated reporting. 

Click here for the course syllabus.

Second Edition

General Module: Exchange Perspectives for Local Impact in Collaboration (EXPLICO)

(N.B. The two editions of EXPLICO will cover different topics. Therefore, if you intend to join our programme for four weeks, there won’t be any overlap in content).

In this two-week module, students will explore the impact of a global challenge from different personal, cultural, local and disciplinary perspectives in a multidisciplinary and multicultural team. After identifying which Sustainable Development Goal(s) should be focused on and mapping out the different actors and their interconnected needs and interests, students zoom in on a beneficiary in the local community in The Hague to dive deeper into their experience and come up with a plan to make a difference. 

  • Elective 1:  Peace, Justice & Human Rights from a Global Perspective

N.B. Both editions of The Hague Summer School offer an elective on Peace, Justice & Human Rights. These two courses are set up in such a way that you can follow either of the two electives separately or join us for four weeks and follow both courses. 

This module focuses on Peace, Justice and Human Rights. The title reflects the status of the City of The Hague as the Legal Capital of the World. This course focuses more broadly on international cooperation which aims to secure peace and stability in the world. 

The following topics and activities will take place during this elective:

  • Global Citizenship: A Common Responsibility for Peace, Justice and Human Rights
  • Critical Approaches to Security
  • International Relations: Security and Cooperation in Eurasia
  • International Human Rights
  • Restorative Justice
  • American Perspectives to Peace and Human Rights
  • Conflicts and Main Global Institutions in Peacebuilding
  • Mapping Conflicts: The Case of the South Caucasus
  • Speaking about the ‘Unspoken’: Conflicts, Peace and Human Rights in Africa
  • Visit to The International Criminal Court and/or The United Nations International Court of Justice.
  • Amsterdam Day

Course syllabus will follow soon!

Teaching methods

The Hague University is a university of applied sciences. This means we employ a problem-solving approach, just like the professional world, with exercises that nurture personal and leadership skills. We include simulations, debates and group work in which you will experience an open-minded and interactive learning environment where it is important to have and debate about opinions. Our guest lecturers come from different private and public fields in The Hague and The Netherlands. Further to that, we include as many field trips as we can to make your learning as practical as possible.

Social programme

New friendships are a foundation for new and fruitful cooperation in the future; The Hague Summer School is not just about studying. You are also here to discover the city of The Hague and have fun. All students are paired with ‘buddies’ (students) from THUAS. During the afternoon and in the evening the students of the Summer School can join a great social and cultural programme. 

A summer to remember!

In addition to the many educational activities, such as visits to museums and institutions, we also think it is very important that you make it an unforgettable summer!

You have a lot of time to get to know each other and to do all the fun activities together. Think, for example, of a boat trip through Leiden, BBQ at the beach, a tour of Amsterdam and, above all, having tons of fun together.

THUAS Campus life

THUAS is a mini United Nations with a blend of around 150 nationalities on campus. You’ll get access to our state-of-the-art facilities, like our library, onsite cafés and free Wi-Fi. You’ll get the chance to make new friends and feel part of our diverse international community. 

Testimonials

Ali Rashid

Iraq

Ali Rashid

"I came across THUAS  when I was looking for a summer school in Europe on Human Security and Human Rights. I met wonderful mentors and classmates and each of  them have taught me something I cherish until this day. I was exposed to various topics on Human Security, Human Rights, and International politics and this led to my decision to pursue a master’s in International Relations.  I encourage everyone to come to THSS and learn about our world,  how to become proactive in innovation and address the most critical human security issues, rights and development . Moreover, come and enjoy The Hague summer, the history, the culture, the beauty, and above all the Stroopwafel!" 
Valentina Maljak

Croatia

Valentina Maljak

"One of the most important aspects when I applied for The Hague Summer School, was the multidisciplinary angle that it offered. Moreover, the price, dates and location played a significant role as well. Summer School made me aware of how the world is interconnected and how we can all make a difference if we work together. Fuirthermore, I have returned to The Hague to pursue a career in international law. I am currently working on articles about the South China Sea conflict together with a friend that I met at The Hague Summer School. I can honestly say that the academic path I have chosen is greatly influenced by my time at The Hague Summer School."
Rafael Moreira

Brazil

Rafael Moreira

"I have learned about THSS at the international school fair and the most important aspects of THSS was that it offers such study themes as sustainable cities and geopolitics. The most interesting thing that I have learned at THSS was during the lecture on how to make cities more sustainable while, at the same time, developing them. Moreover, THSS has a great body of professionals working to make sure that the modules you take and the time you spend in the country are moments of learning and joy. Finally, before, I only knew that the Netherlands was a beautiful and developed country, but while studying at THSS, I also learned about its art, history, architecture, culture, policies and the Dutch way of life." 

Practical information

Entry requirements and registration deadlines

In order to  be admitted to The Hague Summer School, you have to meet the following requirements:

  • First year of a bachelor programme completed.
  • Good knowledge of English; CEFR level B2 or higher (no official certificate, such as IELTS or Cambridge, needed).
  • An application letter (400 words/1 A4) explaining your ambitions and motivation to participate in The Hague Summer School and the choice of your elective(s).

  •  Registration for the first edition closes on 31 May 2023.

  • Registration for the second edition closes on 14 June 2023.

  • For both options above, payment is due 14 days after registration closes.

  • If you still want to join us after registration has closed, please send us a message at thehaguesummerschool@hhs.nl and we will look into the possibilities.

  • Be aware that accommodation for is guaranteed if you register before the deadlines mentioned above

Accommodation and fees

We have secured accommodation in walking distance of The Hague University of Applied Sciences’ campus. Our accommodation includes both breakfast and dinner. You’ll be sharing a room and facilities with other The Hague Summer School participants.

Costs:

  • Two-week summer school, including a shared room for 13 nights: €1.950.
  • Four-week summer school, including a shared room for 27 nights: €3.750.

The fees above include tuition, study materials, fieldtrips and a social programme.

Students from THUAS partner universities, summer school alumni and early birds get a €100 discount per module on the tuition fee. 

N.B. If you secure your own accommodation, the fees will be as follows:

  • Two-week summer school, excluding accommodation: €1.225.
  • Four-week summer school, excluding accommodation: €2.175.

The fees above include tuition, study materials, fieldtrips and a social programme.

N.B. Special rates apply to current students of The Hague University of Applied Sciences. Please contact us to find out more.

Getting here

The Hague University of Applied Sciences (THUAS) is really easy to reach by public transport as it is situated just two steps away from train station The Hague Hollands Spoor (HS). Always make sure to go to The Hague HS and not to The Hague Central Station.

When you get to the Netherlands by plane, there are three possible airports to arrive at. Our main airport is Schiphol Airport. It is really easy to reach THUAS from Schiphol by train as you can get a direct train in 30 minutes to The Hague HS.

Other possible airports are Rotterdam/ The Hague airport and Eindhoven. Rotterdam/ The Hague airport is only a 20 minute trip by car to THUAS but if you want to travel by public transport it will take you about 45 minutes with at least 1 stopover. Eindhoven airport is about 2 hours away by public transport or car.

Did you book a plane to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and do you want to know how to get to The Hague University by public transport, take a look at this video!

Location and contact details

The Hague University of Applied Sciences, Main Campus

Johanna Westerdijkplein 75,

2521 EN, The Hague, The Netherlands

T: + 31 70 445 8888

Whatsapp: +31 6 143 280 74 

thehaguesummerschool@hhs.nl

Terms and conditions

Terms and conditions for The Hague Summer School

THUAS Campus life

THUAS is a mini United Nations with a blend of around 150 nationalities on campus. You’ll get access to our state-of-the-art facilities, like our library, onsite cafés and free Wi-Fi. You’ll get the chance to make new friends and feel part of our diverse international community. 

Special rates apply for students currently registered at THUAS

Please email us at thehaguesummerschool@hhs.nl to find out more

About The Hague 

THUAS is located right in the heart of The Hague, so you will get an all-round cultural  

experience, from galleries packed with Dutch masters to idyllic beaches and parks and buzzing nightclubs. The Hague is known as the International City of Peace and Justice and is filled with international legal institutions. Since 1913, the Peace Palace has been a centre of world justice, hosting the permanent Court of Arbitrations and the International Court of Justice. You’ll also find the International Yugoslavia Tribunal, Europol and the International Criminal Court in The Hague, along with many other courts, tribunals and NGOs. You will feel at home straightaway in The Hague. The city has all the benefits of a big city – the museums, restaurants and transport links – with a welcoming village feel. The Hague itself has many cultural highlights, including Mauritshuis and the Municipal Museum. The city also boasts excellent theatres and music venues and is close to the beach! 

Group of students sitting together
The Hague Summer School
Three girls sitting in the innovation playground classroom
Two guy students at an urban farm
Group picture Summerschool
A group of students posing for a picture

FAQ

What are the requirements for The Hague Summer School?

The Hague Summer School is open to anyone who has completed a first year bachelor’s degree or already has a bachelor’s degree. You should have a good working knowledge of the English language (level B2 or higher) before you apply. One of the most important entry criteria to summer school is your ambition. 

How many ECTS do I get after successful completion of The Hague Summer School?

The two-week course is worth 4 ECTS. The four-week course is worth 8 ECTS.

Are the ECTS valid for my study programme?

On successful completion of The Hague Summer School modules you will be assigned either 4 or 8 European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) credits. Detailed programme descriptions and outlines will be provided to you to facilitate the credit transfer. You will have to check with your own study programme whether they will accepts the ECTS. 

What are the criteria for the motivation letter?

The motivation letter should be at least 400 words / 1 A4 and should answer the following questions:  

Why do you want to attend The Hague Summer School? 

What is your motivation for your elective(s)? 

What is your ambition for the future?

Do I receive a proof of participation?

After you have successfully completed The Hague Summer School you will, in addition to the ECTS, receive a certificate from The Hague University of Applied Sciences outlining the course, the period, and the number of credits.

Is there any IELTS/TOEFL score requirement?

There is no requirement to have a IELTS / TOEFL score but if English is not your first language, you should have a good working knowledge of the English language (level B2 or higher) before you apply. You need to be able to understand your teachers, fellow students, and materials in order to complete your modules.

My passport has expired and I’m in the process of renewing, can I apply to The Hague Summer School?

Yes, you can apply with your current passport details. Once your new passport has been issued, we kindly request you to provide us your new passport details as soon as possible, before travelling to the Netherlands.

I have to upload a proof of enrolment of my university for the application. I am already graduated, what do I have to upload?

You can upload your diploma.

How can I contact you?
Where can I find the terms & conditions for The Hague Summer School?

Terms and conditions for The Hague Summer School

I need a visa in order to participate in The Hague Summer School. Can you assist me during the process of acquiring one?

It is your responsibility to obtain a visa. However, The Hague Summer School will send you an invitation letter upon request that will serve as a supporting document that outlines your reasons and duration of stay in The Netherlands.