Public Administration

The Master's in Public Administration at Leiden University is a comprehensive and internationally oriented programme designed to prepare students for leadership and management roles within the public sector. This programme provides a deep understanding of the complex dynamics that influence public policy and administration in a global context. Students will explore a wide range of topics, including public governance, policy analysis, public management, and organizational behavior, equipping them with the skills necessary to address contemporary challenges faced by governments, non-governmental organizations, and international institutions. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills essential for effective public service. Students will have opportunities to engage with real-world case studies, participate in internships, and collaborate on research projects that tackle pressing societal issues. The programme also promotes an understanding of the normative and ethical dimensions of public administration, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and democratic principles. Leiden University’s extensive network of partners and its reputation for academic excellence ensure a rich learning environment that encourages interdisciplinary approaches and international perspectives. Graduates of this programme are well-equipped for careers in public policy, municipal management, international organizations, consultancy, and research. With a focus on developing leadership qualities and strategic thinking, the Master in Public Administration prepares students to become innovative and responsible public sector professionals capable of making impactful contributions to society.

Public Administration at Leiden University offers a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum designed to prepare students for effective governance and public service in a complex global environment. The program combines theoretical foundations with practical skills, emphasizing critical thinking, policy analysis, and organizational management. Students will explore fundamental concepts such as governance, public policy, administrative law, and ethics, enabling them to understand the intricate functioning of public institutions and organizations.

Throughout the program, students engage with a variety of case studies and real-world scenarios to develop a nuanced understanding of public sector challenges. Courses cover subjects like comparative politics, budget management, public sector innovation, and leadership in public organizations. The curriculum also emphasizes research skills, equipping students to analyze data, formulate evidence-based policies, and evaluate program effectiveness.

Leiden’s Public Administration program encourages an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from political science, law, economics, and sociology. This broad perspective allows students to grasp the broader socio-political context within which public administration operates. Moreover, the program promotes a global outlook, preparing graduates to work in diverse international environments and adapt to different administrative systems.

Students have opportunities to participate in internships and projects with governmental agencies, NGOs, and international organizations, gaining practical experience and professional networks. Leiden University’s strong ties with public sector partners ensure that the curriculum remains relevant and aligned with current industry needs.

The program is designed to foster leadership qualities, ethical judgment, and a commitment to public service. Graduates are equipped to work in various roles such as policy advisors, public managers, urban planners, or researchers at local, national, and international levels. With a solid academic foundation and practical insights, students are prepared to contribute positively to society and address pressing public sector issues.

Overall, Leiden University’s Public Administration program offers an enriching educational experience that combines academic excellence with real-world application, empowering students to become innovative and responsible public sector professionals.

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) 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).

The Master’s in Public Administration at Leiden University offers a diverse range of financing options for prospective students to support their studies. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's nationality and study mode. For the academic year 2023-2024, the annual fee for non-EU/EEA students is approximately €18,800, while EU/EEA students pay around €2,209. These fees are subject to change annually and additional costs such as living expenses, insurance, books, and study materials should also be considered when planning financial resources.

Leiden University provides several scholarship opportunities for both domestic and international students. The most prominent scholarship is the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LexS), which targets high-achieving students and covers tuition fees partially or fully, depending on the scholarship terms. Additionally, the Holland Scholarship is available for talented non-EEA students, offering a contribution to their living expenses alongside tuition fee discounts. The Orange Tulip Scholarship Programme is another initiative aimed at students from select countries, providing financial support to facilitate their studies at Leiden University.

Students are encouraged to explore external funding options such as government-funded scholarships, national grants, and private foundations in their home countries. Many countries offer student loans or study grants to support higher education abroad, which students can utilize to finance their education at Leiden University. The university’s International Office provides guidance on these options and assists students in the application processes for various scholarships and funding sources.

Leiden University also promotes opportunities for part-time work and assistantships within the university, allowing students to earn additional income while studying. The university’s location in The Hague offers advantages in securing internships and part-time employment in the public sector, NGOs, or international organizations, which can contribute to students' financial stability.

Furthermore, students are advised to budget for living costs in The Hague, which can range from €1,000 to €1,500 per month, depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices. The university’s dedicated financial aid office offers detailed advice on budgeting and managing finances throughout the duration of the programme.

Overall, financing a Master’s in Public Administration at Leiden University involves a combination of tuition fee planning, exploring scholarship opportunities, considering external grants, and budgeting for living expenses. By utilizing these resources and planning ahead, students can effectively manage the costs associated with their studies and focus on their academic and professional development.

The Master’s in Public Administration at Leiden University is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to analyze, develop, and implement public policies and manage public sector organizations effectively. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating insights from political science, public administration, law, and international relations to address complex governance challenges in a rapidly changing world. Students explore themes such as public management, policy analysis, organizational behavior, governance, and public ethics, preparing them for leadership roles in government agencies, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector involved in public affairs.

The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical application, encouraging students to engage with contemporary issues through case studies, research projects, and internships. Leiden University’s strong emphasis on research-based learning enables students to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and evidence-based decision-making abilities. The program also offers opportunities for specialization, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests, whether in areas such as European governance, global public policy, or public management innovation.

Leiden’s international environment fosters a diverse peer group and provides exposure to different governance systems and cultural perspectives, enhancing cross-cultural understanding and collaborative skills. The faculty consists of renowned academics and practitioners with extensive expertise in public administration and policy, providing mentorship, guidance, and access to a broad network of professionals. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in public service, policy consultancy, research institutions, or further academic study. The program’s focus on contemporary public sector issues, combined with Leiden University’s reputation for excellence in social sciences, makes it a leading choice for students aiming to influence policy and improve governance worldwide.