Political Culture and National Identities

This means that not only will you look at the history of the political culture and national identities of specific countries, such as the Netherlands, Great Britain, Germany or Russia, but you will also analyse how these countries are influenced from outside through the process of cultural transfer — in other words, the adaptation of foreign examples or the inspiration emanating from them. Since the study of the way national politics and identities are conceived is a new research area, students taking this specialisation will be at the forefront of this new approach. You will focus on the connections between the different national cases in Europe. The concept of 'cultural transfer' will be transferred to the political domain, for instance with regard to social movements, parties, parliaments and the use of symbols and material objects. In addition, Europe and international or supra-national organisations, such as those involved in post-War European unification, can also be studied as platforms of cultural and political transfer.

Accreditation: NVAO

Erasmus Mundus program: This is an Erasmus Mundus program.

The Political Culture and National Identities master's programme at Leiden University offers an in-depth exploration of the ways in which political cultures shape national identities across different societies. The programme is designed for students interested in understanding the complex interplay between political traditions, societal values, historical development, and national consciousness. Throughout the course, students will analyze diverse political cultures and their influence on political behavior, institutional development, and policy-making processes within various national contexts. Emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches, the programme combines insights from political science, history, sociology, and anthropology to provide a comprehensive understanding of the cultural underpinnings of political systems.

Students will examine the historical evolution of national identities and how they are constructed, maintained, or challenged over time. The curriculum covers topics such as the role of collective memory, national symbols, cultural narratives, and political myths in shaping public perceptions and political affiliations. Additionally, the programme explores contemporary issues related to multiculturalism, globalization, and identity politics, offering insights into the dynamic and often contested nature of national identities in a globalized world.

The programme employs a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and independent research, encouraging critical thinking and active student participation. Students will have the opportunity to analyze case studies from different regions, allowing for cross-cultural comparisons and a nuanced understanding of the subject matter. The research component involves a substantial thesis project, where students are expected to apply theoretical concepts and empirical methods to investigate specific aspects of political culture and national identity.

Graduates of this programme will possess advanced analytical skills, a deep understanding of cultural and political dynamics, and the ability to conduct independent research. These competencies prepare students for careers in academia, policy analysis, international organizations, NGOs, or governmental institutions, where understanding diverse political cultures and national identities is essential. The programme also provides a solid foundation for those wishing to pursue a doctoral degree in related fields. With its international outlook and comprehensive curriculum, Leiden University's Political Culture and National Identities master's programme offers an excellent platform for students eager to engage with some of the most pressing issues in contemporary political and cultural studies.

Admission requirements

See website www.unileidenmasters.nl

Other requirements

1. minimum kennis (ISPAC: overige vereisten) Goede leesvaardigheid van het Duits en Frans heeft de voorkeur.
2. minimum kennis (ISPAC: overige vereisten) See website www.unileidenmasters.nl
3. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) Bachelorgraad of zijn equivalent, met een relevante specialisatie en uitstekende cijfers.
4. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) Bachelor's degree in a relevant subject (see website www.unileidenmasters.nl for details)

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

The financing options for the Political Culture and National Identities program at Leiden University include a variety of scholarships, grants, and funding opportunities designed to support both domestic and international students. Leiden University offers several merit-based scholarships for international students, such as the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS), which covers partial or full tuition fees for talented students. Additionally, there are also country-specific scholarships and faculty-specific awards that can significantly reduce the financial burden of studying abroad. Students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, including governmental scholarships, private foundations, and international organizations that offer financial support for students pursuing political science and related disciplines.

Furthermore, the university provides information about loan options available through Dutch student finance institutions, which can be utilized by students from the European Union and other eligible countries. International students should also investigate possible part-time work opportunities within the university and the surrounding city of Leiden, which can help manage living costs and gain valuable experience during their studies. The cost of living in Leiden varies depending on accommodation, lifestyle, and personal expenses, but the university offers estimates to help students budget appropriately.

Funding opportunities are regularly updated on Leiden University’s official website, and prospective students are advised to check the official scholarship and financial aid pages early in their application process to ensure they meet all deadlines and eligibility criteria. In conclusion, while studying at Leiden University in the Political Culture and National Identities program entails certain financial commitments, numerous support options are available to assist students financially and make their academic pursuits more accessible.

The Master’s programme in Political Culture, Ethnicity and National Identities at Leiden University offers students an in-depth understanding of how political culture influences national identities and ethnic relations within contemporary societies. This interdisciplinary program combines insights from political science, history, sociology, and anthropology to examine the ways in which cultural factors shape political behavior, social cohesion, and conflict. Students explore key themes such as nationalism, ethnic identity formation, diaspora politics, minority rights, and the impact of globalization on national identities. The curriculum emphasizes analytical skills, critical thinking, and research methods, enabling students to assess complex political phenomena related to ethnicity and culture. The program is designed for students interested in advancing their knowledge of cultural and political processes that underpin national and ethnic identities, with potential career paths in academia, policy analysis, international organizations, and NGOs. Courses are taught by renowned experts in the field, and the program includes opportunities for fieldwork, internships, and thesis research, which contribute to a comprehensive learning experience. Leiden University’s strong emphasis on international cooperation and its diverse student body cultivate a global perspective among participants. Graduates of this programme acquire a nuanced understanding of identity politics, the historical development of nations, and the role of culture in shaping political systems. Overall, the programme prepares students to critically analyze contemporary challenges involving ethnicity and national identity, fostering skills necessary for a career in research, policy-making, or advocacy related to cultural and political issues worldwide.