International and European Governance

The Master's programme in International and European Governance at Leiden University offers an in-depth educational experience designed to prepare students for careers in international policy-making, diplomacy, and governance. The programme provides a comprehensive understanding of the key theories, frameworks, and practices that underpin the functioning of global and European institutions. Students will engage with topics such as international law, European integration, security studies, human rights, democracy, and global governance challenges. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, and practical projects, the programme emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and real-world applicability. Leiden University's rich academic environment and international focus create a vibrant setting for students to analyze complex issues related to governance at both the regional and global levels. The programme encourages the development of research skills and offers opportunities for internships, conferences, and collaboration with international organizations. Graduates of this programme are equipped to work in governmental institutions, non-governmental organizations, international agencies, and the private sector, contributing to policy development and implementation. The interdisciplinary approach ensures that students gain a holistic perspective on international and European governance, preparing them to address the pressing challenges of our interconnected world effectively. With small class sizes and personalized mentorship, students receive tailored guidance to support their academic and professional ambitions. Overall, the International and European Governance Master's programme at Leiden University aims to cultivate informed, skilled, and globally-minded professionals eager to make a positive impact on international governance and policy-making.

The Master’s in International and European Governance at Leiden University offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary curriculum designed to provide students with in-depth understanding of the complex political, legal, economic, and institutional aspects of international and European governance. This program explores the functioning of international organizations, the European Union, and other supranational bodies, focusing on their roles in addressing global challenges such as security, migration, climate change, and economic development. Students will analyze the legal frameworks that underpin international and European governance, including treaties, regulations, and directives, while also examining the political dynamics and decision-making processes within these institutions.

The program emphasizes critical thinking and practical skills, preparing graduates for careers in international organizations, governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, and private sector entities involved in global governance. Courses cover a broad range of topics, including international law, European integration, security studies, comparative politics, public policy analysis, and negotiation strategies. Students are encouraged to engage in active debate and research, fostering a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the governance structures that shape international cooperation.

Throughout the programme, students will participate in seminars, workshops, and simulation exercises to develop their analytical and communicative skills. The curriculum also incorporates opportunities for internships and collaborative projects, providing real-world experience and networking opportunities. Upon graduation, students will possess the theoretical knowledge and practical competencies needed to analyze, evaluate, and influence governance processes at the international and European levels. The Master’s in International and European Governance aims to cultivate highly skilled professionals capable of contributing to effective policy-making and governance in an interconnected world.

Admission requirements

See website www.unileidenmasters.nl for details.

Other requirements

1. minimum kennis (ISPAC: overige vereisten) Zie www.unileidenmasters.nl
2. minimum kennis (ISPAC: overige vereisten) See website www.unileidenmasters.nl for details.
3. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) Bachelorgraad in Public Administration of een nauw gerelateerde studie (zie www.unileidenmasters.nl)
4. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) BA degree in Public Administration or a closely related field (see website www.unileidenmasters.nl).

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 of the International and European Governance master's program at Leiden University primarily involves tuition fees, which vary depending on the student's nationality. For Dutch and EU/EEA students, the tuition fee is approximately €2,209 per year, while non-EU/EEA international students pay around €17,300 per year. Leiden University offers a range of scholarships and grants to support students financially. These include the Holland Scholarship, which is aimed at talented non-EEA students, and university-specific grants such as the Leiden Excellence Scholarship and the Willem-Bessel Scholarship. Applicants are advised to check the specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each scholarship. Additionally, students may explore external funding options such as government scholarships, private foundations, or educational loan programs available in their home countries. The university also emphasizes the importance of student financing planning and offers financial advice through its student service centers. Students are encouraged to apply early for scholarships and to prepare comprehensive financial plans to cover tuition fees, living expenses, insurance, and study materials. Besides scholarship opportunities, international students can seek part-time employment within the Netherlands under the Dutch work regulations, which permit limited working hours for students. Overall, while the program requires a financial investment, there are various funding options and financial support systems in place to assist students in managing these costs during their studies.

The Master's programme in International and European Governance offered by Leiden University provides students with comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the complex mechanisms that underpin the governance structures within the European Union and the broader international context. The programme is designed to equip students with analytical skills, policy knowledge, and practical insights that are essential for careers in international diplomacy, European institutions, non-governmental organizations, and global policy analysis. Students explore a wide array of topics, including European Union law, international law, global governance, security studies, human rights, and the economic and political processes shaping international relations. The curriculum combines theoretical frameworks with empirical research, fostering an in-depth understanding of governance challenges faced by the global community today.

Leiden University's strong emphasis on research-based teaching allows students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills through case studies, simulations, and internships. The program encourages active participation in debates on current issues like migration, climate change, international conflict resolution, and digital governance. The programme's interdisciplinary approach enables students to analyze issues from political, legal, economic, and social perspectives, preparing them for the increasingly interconnected and complex world of international governance. The programme also offers options for specialization, allowing students to focus on specific areas such as European integration, security studies, or human rights.

The university's faculty comprises renowned scholars with extensive academic and practical experience in international and European governance. Students benefit from the university’s extensive international networks and partnerships, which facilitate internships, guest lectures, and study exchanges with partner institutions across Europe and beyond. The programme is taught entirely in English and typically has a duration of one year for full-time students. Graduates of the programme are well-positioned to pursue careers in European institutions, international organizations, governmental agencies, think tanks, or further academic research. The programme also promotes critical engagement with current policy debates and encourages students to contribute to sustainable and inclusive governance practices globally and within Europe.