Philosophy of Law, Governance, and Politics

The Master's degree programme in Philosophy of Law, Governance, and Politics at Leiden University offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the fundamental questions surrounding law, governance, and political power. This interdisciplinary curriculum is designed for students who are eager to understand and critically analyze the philosophical foundations and practical implications of legal and political institutions in contemporary society. The programme combines rigorous philosophical inquiry with insights from political science, law, and social theory, allowing students to develop a nuanced perspective on the nature of authority, justice, legitimacy, and governance.

Throughout the programme, students will engage with key philosophical texts and theories, examining their relevance to current legal and political issues such as human rights, democracy, rule of law, state authority, and ethical dilemmas faced by governments and legal systems worldwide. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking skills and encourages students to question normative assumptions, evaluate different viewpoints, and develop well-reasoned arguments. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in seminars, workshops, and research projects that foster interactive learning and scholarly debate.

Leiden University’s well-established research community and cutting-edge faculty provide an excellent environment for academic growth and intellectual development. The programme offers specializations that allow students to focus on specific areas such as human rights philosophy, legal philosophy, or political theory, tailoring their studies to their interests and career aspirations. Graduates of this programme will be well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, law, policy analysis, international organizations, and NGOs, or to continue their studies at the doctoral level.

The programme is suitable for students with a background in philosophy, law, political science, or related disciplines who are passionate about understanding the philosophical dimensions of legal and political issues. It is designed to foster critical inquiry, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of the complex relationship between law, politics, and society. By completing this programme, students will gain the academic rigor and practical knowledge necessary to contribute thoughtfully and effectively to debates on governance, justice, and the rule of law in a globalized world.

The Master's programme in Philosophy of Law, Governance, and Politics at Leiden University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of fundamental questions related to law, governance, and political theory. This programme is designed to equip students with a deep understanding of the philosophical underpinnings of legal and political institutions, as well as the analytical skills necessary to critically assess contemporary issues in governance and public policy. Throughout the programme, students will engage with a diverse array of topics, including the nature of justice, the legitimacy of political authority, human rights, democracy, and the impact of globalization on legal and political systems. The curriculum combines core courses in political philosophy, legal theory, and ethics with specialized electives that allow students to tailor their studies to their interests, such as environmental ethics, international law, or digital governance.

The programme emphasizes rigorous philosophical analysis, critical thinking, and practical application of theoretical insights to real-world problems. Students will participate in seminars, workshops, and discussions led by leading scholars in the field, fostering an environment of intellectual challenge and collaboration. Additionally, the programme encourages research and independent study, culminating in a master's thesis that offers students the opportunity to investigate a topic of their choice in depth. Graduates of this programme will be well-prepared for careers in academia, public policy, legal practice, non-governmental organizations, or international institutions. They will also develop valuable skills such as analytical reasoning, normative evaluation, and argumentative writing, all within a global and contemporary context. Overall, this Master's programme at Leiden University combines philosophical rigor with practical relevance, preparing students to understand and influence the legal and political landscapes of today and tomorrow.

Admission requirements

See website www.unileidenmasters.nl for details.

Other requirements

1. minimum kennis (ISPAC: overige vereisten) Zie www.unileidenmasters.nl voor meer informatie.
2. minimum kennis (ISPAC: overige vereisten) See website www.unileidenmasters.nl for details.
3. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) WO bachelor in Rechtsgeleerdheid of een vergelijkbare opleiding.
4. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) 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 Philosophy of Law, Governance, and Politics master's program at Leiden University offers a range of financing options designed to support both domestic and international students. Tuition fees for Dutch/EU students are generally lower compared to non-EU/EEA students, reflecting the Dutch government’s subsidies for residents. For the academic year 2023–2024, the tuition fee for Dutch or EU/EEA students is approximately €2,209 per year, whereas non-EU/EEA students pay around €16,900 annually. These fees are subject to change annually, and students are advised to consult the official university website for the most current information.

In addition to tuition fees, students should consider the cost of living in Leiden, which includes accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, and other personal expenses. The estimated living costs for students range from €12,000 to €15,000 per year, depending on individual lifestyle choices. Leiden University provides detailed guidance and estimates on living expenses to help students plan financially.

For international students, scholarships and grants are available to offset some of the costs associated with studying in the Netherlands. The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LexS) is targeted at outstanding international students, offering partial tuition fee waivers that can significantly reduce financial burdens. Additionally, the Holland Scholarship supports talented non-EEA students and provides a one-time grant of €5,000, which can be combined with other scholarships.

Students enrolled in the program are encouraged to explore external funding possibilities such as the Orange Tulip Scholarship, Erasmus+ student mobility grants, and country-specific grants based on their nationality. Many students also rely on student loans provided by their home countries or private financial institutions to finance their studies and living expenses.

Part-time work opportunities are available to enrolled students, allowing them to work up to 16 hours per week during the semester and full-time during holidays. The Netherlands has a vibrant labor market, and students can find part-time positions in sectors such as hospitality, administration, and education, which help cover daily expenses while gaining valuable work experience.

Leiden University also provides financial guidance and support services to help students apply for appropriate funding, manage their budgets, and navigate the financial aspects of living and studying in the Netherlands. Prospective students are advised to visit the university’s official financial aid webpage for comprehensive, up-to-date information and to ensure they meet application deadlines for scholarships and grants.

The Philosophy of Law, Governance, and Politics master's program at Leiden University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary curriculum designed to equip students with critical thinking skills and a deep understanding of complex legal, political, and philosophical issues. The program combines analytical philosophy, legal theory, political philosophy, and governance studies to prepare graduates for careers in academia, policy analysis, legal practice, and public administration. Students explore fundamental questions concerning justice, authority, legitimacy, human rights, and the role of law in society. The program emphasizes normative analysis and practical application, encouraging students to critically evaluate existing legal and political systems while considering ethical implications. Courses cover topics such as constitutional law, international law, democratic theory, and the philosophy of human rights, integrating insights from historical perspectives and contemporary debates. The program is characterized by its small-class size and interactive seminars, fostering an engaging learning environment where students actively participate in discussions and debates. Leiden University’s renowned faculty members are experts in their fields, providing mentorship and guidance tailored to individual research interests. The program also emphasizes research skills, critical analysis, and the effective communication of complex ideas through written assignments and presentations. International students find a multicultural environment conducive to diverse viewpoints and global perspectives. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to pursue doctoral research or enter professional fields such as advocacy, governmental agencies, international organizations, or think tanks. The program’s flexible structure allows students to tailor their coursework and research projects according to their academic interests and career goals. Overall, the Philosophy of Law, Governance, and Politics master's program at Leiden University represents a rigorous academic pathway for those seeking to engage deeply with pressing societal issues through philosophical and analytical lenses, contributing to informed debate and policymaking worldwide.