International programme

International class

Startdate 1 Sep 2025
Study duration <1 year
Level Postgraduate continuing professional education
Type Full time

Apply

Before
While
After

Are you interested in learning more about Christian education and what it means to be a Christian teacher? Are you aware of your own views on education?

We welcome undergraduate students and graduates from different cultural backgrounds and views on education to join our local students in discussing education and teaching. Dialogue like this will help you clarify your own ideas on education and will help you to broaden your perspective on teaching. After three months you will have a deeper insight into your own teaching practice.

The International Class consists of a group of students from Driestar Christian University and students from countries all over the world who applied for this course. The mixture of different backgrounds makes for a situation in which all students can learn from each other.

It is meant to be an international group and during the lectures, the focus is on Christian education. The theme is elaborated in modules covering the history of Christian educational thinking in an international perspective, the biblical world view and Christian spirituality and the practice of Christian teaching in the classroom.  

Before your studies

Preparation for the International Class

Before your come to Gouda (the Netherlands) you will be required to do some research (pre-assignment). You will need some knowledge of the educational system in your country to be able to participate in the online class discussions. We also expect you to know your own view on education. If you are accepted as a participant you will receive assignments and instructions to help you prepare in more detail.

Read more about studying in The Netherlands Practical information for students

During your Studies

The International Class course consists of four core modules:

1. Christian education in a historical perspective

Education is a tradition with a rich history. From Aristotle and St. Augustine to Dutch thinkers such as Waterink and Bavinck, tradition offers insights and theories from which we can learn. By starting with the background and the contexts of these authors and continuing to the critical evaluation of their thinking, this module aims to deepen your understanding of Christian pedagogy.

2. Christian education and classroom practice

We will focus on linking theory and practice. What does it mean to be a Christian teacher? What are the implications for your everyday classroom practice? Is the biblical principle of stewardship one that is applicable to your teaching practice?

Important themes will be discussed in small groups: the relationship between the teacher and pupils, for example. Not all Christians have the same view on authority in the classroom and we hope to offer you an opportunity to learn from each other. We will also discuss knowledge and the way we can share knowledge with pupils.

3. Christian belief in personal and professional life

Your Christian worldview and your faith in the Lord Jesus Christ have a profound effect on your life. What effect do they have on you as a teacher? What does the kingdom of God mean to you in your classroom? During this course these aspects will be explained from different points of view. We are going to explore different views of God and mankind through dialogue.

4. Intercultural development

During this course you will learn new things and gain new insights into your own culture and cultures from all over the world. With the help of a personal tutor you will have the opportunity to reflect on what these mean to you personally and professionally. Windmills, clogs and tulips, Rembrand van Rhijn and Johannes Vermeer. We look forward to offering you a glimpse of Dutch culture and history. Several excursions to Dutch landmarks and famous spots will be organised during your stay.

We offer credits for the modules according to the Bologna system (the European Credits Transfer System, ECTS). After completing the core modules successfully, you will receive 15 ECTS credits (on average, one credit requires 28 hours of study).

After successfully completing the online course you will receive a Certificate, indicating that you participated in the International Class and completed the 15 ECTS credit course. It is possible to extend your credits with 5 ECTS by doing a research project.

Do you like challenges? Do you have an affinity for other cultures? Are you well motivated and internationally minded? The International Class – Christian Education offers you this unique opportunity!

Do you fit the profile?

Christian identity - Because we are a Christian Reformed university, we invite Christian students to apply.
Level of education - Prospective students must have completed at least two years of a Bachelors programme in Education (or teacher training college), or two years of a Bachelor programme in Pedagogics. Graduates (teachers) are also welcome to apply.
English - The language of instruction will be English. Students must be able to read, write and speak English to be able to participate in the course. (Your college/university/ employer may be asked to give an indication of your language proficiency).
Authorisation - Should your application be successful, your university/institution will have to authorise your participation.
Age - We welcome students in the age group 18 to 35 (upper age limit: 35 years).

Mix of students

A limited number of participants will be admitted. Since Driestar Christian University, for Teacher Education, wishes to guarantee good tutorship, the number of students to the International Class is limited to twenty per year. This means that ten Dutch students from Driestar Christian University will be allowed to enrol alongside ten international students. You are welcome to apply!

The next course will be held in 2025 from 1 September until 19 November.

It is a full-time course of study.

Academic deadline for application for non-EU/EAA and Scholarship applicants: 15 APRIL 2025
Academic deadline for EU/EAA applicants: : 1 June 2025

Tuition Fees: Students from partner universities abroad (with a formal agreement with Driestar Christian University e.g. ERASMUS + or other agreements) do not need to pay tuition fees.

All other students are required to pay the tuition fee of € 1.195,-.

After your studies

You have successfully finished the International Class. Congratulations!

After three months you will return home with a range of new skills and knowledge and deeper insight into your own teaching practice. We hope and expect this exercise will be helpful in serving Christian education in your home country and school.

Enrolment

How to enrol for the International Class?

If you have more questions about the programme or would you like to enquire about availability, contact Ms. E.L. (Lydia) Bor or Mr. J.R. (Joël) Baas.
If you would like to become an exchange student, please register by filling in the application form.
If needed, we will contact you for an interview.
After admission, our International Office will advise you on the preparations for the online course.
Get in touch! Feel free to contact us if you would like more information about the programme and admission.