Research Master's in History: Colonial and Global History

The Research Master's in History: Colonial and Global History at Leiden University offers an in-depth academic program designed for students with a strong interest in understanding the complex processes that have shaped the modern world through the lens of colonialism and global interactions. This two-year program provides an advanced curriculum that combines rigorous historical analysis with interdisciplinary approaches, enabling students to critically evaluate the historical development of colonies, imperial expansions, and the interconnectedness of societies across continents. Throughout the program, students engage with a wide range of topics including colonial administration, migration, resistance movements, cultural exchanges, and the legacies of colonialism in contemporary global issues. The program emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and practical research skills, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research institutions, museums, cultural organizations, or policy-making bodies. Students benefit from Leiden University's rich academic environment, including access to extensive archives, libraries, and expert faculty members specializing in colonial and global history. The program encourages independent research, offering opportunities for students to develop their own research proposals, participate in seminars, and present their findings at conferences. Through a combination of coursework and a substantial research project, students gain valuable experience in historical scholarship and become skilled in analyzing diverse primary and secondary sources. The interdisciplinary nature of the program allows students to incorporate perspectives from anthropology, political science, and cultural studies, providing a comprehensive understanding of the global historical landscape. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to contribute to scholarly debates and policy discussions related to post-colonial societies, cultural heritage, and global development. Overall, the Research Master's in History: Colonial and Global History at Leiden University is dedicated to fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of history’s role in shaping our interconnected world.

The Master’s programme in History (Research): Colonial and Global History at Leiden University offers students a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the historical processes that have shaped the modern world through the lenses of colonialism and globalization. This advanced programme is designed for students who wish to develop strong research skills, critical thinking, and an analytical understanding of historical phenomena related to imperial expansion, colonial administrations, decolonization, and the interconnectedness of global societies over time. Throughout the programme, students will examine diverse case studies from Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Europe, emphasizing the interactions, conflicts, and exchanges that characterize colonial and post-colonial histories.

The curriculum combines both theoretical and practical approaches, encouraging students to engage with historiographical debates, primary source analysis, and innovative research methodologies. Students will have the opportunity to specialize in specific regional or thematic areas, such as transatlantic slavery, indigenous histories, economic impacts of colonialism, cultural exchanges, and the legacies of empire in contemporary society. The programme is structured to enhance students' ability to produce independent, high-quality research, culminating in a master’s thesis that contributes original insights to the field of global and colonial history.

Leiden University’s distinguished faculty provides mentorship and supervision throughout the programme, ensuring students are well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, policy analysis, heritage management, or related fields. The programme also emphasizes interdisciplinary perspectives by integrating insights from social sciences, anthropology, and political science, fostering a multidimensional understanding of complex historical processes. With its emphasis on research excellence and international outlook, the History (Research): Colonial and Global History programme prepares graduates to critically analyze the past and understand its enduring impact on today’s global society.

The Master's program in History (Research): Colonial and Global History at Leiden University is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of historical processes related to colonialism, imperialism, and globalization. The program emphasizes research skills, critical analysis, and a comprehensive grasp of the global historical context. Admission requirements typically include a relevant Bachelor's degree in History or a closely related field, demonstrating strong academic performance and research potential. Applicants should submit a motivation letter outlining their interest in colonial and global history, along with a curriculum vitae detailing academic background and relevant experience. Proficiency in English is essential; therefore, proof of English language proficiency such as IELTS or TOEFL scores must be provided if the candidate's previous education was not conducted in English. Additionally, some programs may require submission of academic writing samples or a research proposal to assess the applicant's research aptitude and alignment with the program's focus. The selection process considers academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and the applicant's motivation and research interests. It is also important to meet any specific course prerequisites, such as prior coursework related to history, research methodology, or area-specific studies. International students should ensure they fulfill visa and residence permit requirements for studying in the Netherlands. Financial aid or scholarships may be available for eligible applicants, provided they meet the respective criteria. Prior experience or knowledge in colonial or global history can be advantageous but is not strictly necessary. The program's entry requirements aim to identify motivated individuals with a strong academic background and a keen interest in exploring the interconnected histories of colonies and global processes.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

tuition_fees: The tuition fees for the Research Master's in History with a focus on Colonial and Global History at Leiden University vary depending on the student's nationality. For Dutch and European Union (EU/EEA) students, the annual tuition fee is approximately €2,200. Non-EU/EEA students are typically required to pay higher tuition fees, which are around €17,300 per year. These fees cover instruction, access to university facilities, and other academic resources throughout the program.

Financial aid and scholarships: Leiden University offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for both domestic and international students. The Holland Scholarship, for instance, is available for non-EU/EEA students and provides a partial tuition fee waiver. Additionally, the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) offers talented international students the chance to receive financial support based on academic merit. Other possible funding options include government grants, private scholarships, and loans in students' home countries, which can help manage the costs associated with graduate studies.

Part-time work opportunities: Students enrolled in the Research Master's program may have the opportunity to work part-time in student jobs on campus, which can provide additional income. Such positions include research assistantships, library work, or administrative roles, and are generally limited to a certain number of hours per week to ensure academic commitments are met.

Cost of living: Besides tuition fees, students should consider living expenses in Leiden, which is known for its affordable cost of living compared to other Dutch cities. Estimated monthly costs for accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses range between €800 and €1,200, depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices. International students can find various housing options, including university dormitories, private rentals, or shared apartments.

Student loans and support: For eligible students, government-supported student loan schemes may be available to cover part of the educational costs. Leiden University also offers guidance on financial planning and access to student support services to help students manage their finances effectively.

In summary, financing studies in the Research Master's in History: Colonial and Global History at Leiden University involves understanding tuition fees, exploring scholarship opportunities, considering living expenses, and seeking potential part-time work or loans. The university encourages prospective students to contact the admissions office for tailored financial advice and to explore all available funding sources to facilitate their academic journey.

The Research Master's in History: Colonial and Global History at Leiden University offers students an in-depth exploration of historical processes and contexts that have shaped the modern world. The programme emphasizes critical analysis of colonial history, post-colonial developments, and the interconnectedness of global historical phenomena. Designed for students with a strong academic background in history or related disciplines, this master's programme prepares graduates for academic careers, research positions, and roles in cultural and policy sectors where historical perspective is essential. The curriculum includes a mix of advanced theoretical courses, specialized seminars, and research methodology training, enabling students to develop independent research projects. Students have the opportunity to work closely with faculty members renowned for their expertise in colonial history, global history, and related fields. The programme encourages comparative and multidisciplinary approaches, integrating perspectives from anthropology, political science, and other social sciences to enrich understanding of historical issues. Throughout the course, students engage with primary source analysis, historiographical debates, and contemporary relevance of historical work. The research master’s culminates in a thesis that contributes original insights to the field. Leiden University’s long-standing reputation and extensive library resources support students throughout their studies, providing access to vast collections of historical documents. The programme also fosters international collaboration and networking through conferences, workshops, and exchange opportunities. Graduates of this programme often continue with PhD research, contribute to academic publications, or work in heritage management, policy analysis, or international organizations where historical expertise informs decision-making. Overall, the Research Master's in History: Colonial and Global History offers a comprehensive, rigorous education aimed at producing well-rounded historians capable of contributing meaningful research to understanding our interconnected world.