Social and Political Philosophy

Social and Political Philosophy at Radboud University offers a comprehensive exploration of fundamental issues concerning justice, democracy, human rights, and the ethical foundations of political institutions. This programme aims to equip students with critical analytical skills to assess different political theories and philosophies, fostering a nuanced understanding of societal structures and normative questions that underpin contemporary political debates. Throughout the course, students engage with classical and modern philosophical texts, critically examining concepts such as equality, freedom, authority, and legitimacy. The curriculum also emphasizes the importance of philosophical reflection in addressing real-world social and political challenges, including issues related to multiculturalism, social justice, and global governance.

Students will develop skills in constructing and evaluating complex philosophical arguments, participating in informed discussions, and conducting independent research. The programme encourages an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from ethics, political science, history, and law to provide a well-rounded perspective on social and political issues. Courses cover themes such as the philosophy of law, human rights, political morality, and justice theories, combined with practical seminars and debate sessions to enhance critical thinking and communication skills.

Radboud University's academic environment fosters a vibrant community of scholars committed to social justice, critical inquiry, and philosophical excellence. The programme prepares graduates for diverse careers, including academia, public policy, nonprofit organizations, journalism, or further postgraduate studies. Across the programme, students are challenged to reflect on their own beliefs and values, enabling them to contribute thoughtfully to societal debates and decision-making processes in a complex and evolving world. Emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical application, the Social and Political Philosophy programme aims to develop socially responsible and intellectually rigorous individuals capable of analyzing and addressing pressing social issues with ethical integrity and philosophical depth.

The Master's program in Social and Political Philosophy at Radboud University offers an in-depth exploration of fundamental questions concerning society, politics, and human values. This interdisciplinary program combines philosophical analysis with empirical insights, enabling students to critically examine the ethical, political, and social issues that shape our world. Throughout the program, students engage with topics such as democracy, justice, human rights, multiculturalism, and social justice, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical foundations and practical implications of social and political theories. The curriculum is designed to promote analytical skills, ethical reasoning, and critical thinking, encouraging students to develop well-founded arguments and apply philosophical methods to contemporary issues. Courses include topics like philosophy of law, political ethics, global justice, and theories of democracy, complemented by seminars and workshops that facilitate active discussion and debate. Students are encouraged to undertake independent research, culminating in a master's thesis that addresses a pertinent social or political challenge. The program also emphasizes the importance of intercultural dialogue and the role of philosophy in public discourse, preparing graduates for careers in academia, policy analysis, NGO work, or international organizations. The faculty members are renowned experts in the fields of political philosophy, ethics, and social theory, offering personalized guidance and mentorship throughout the course of study. Through a combination of theoretical coursework, empirical research, and practical applications, students are equipped to analyze complex societal issues critically and contribute meaningfully to debates on social justice and political ethics. The Master's in Social and Political Philosophy at Radboud University is ideal for students passionate about understanding and influencing societal development and seeking to become informed and reflective practitioners in social and political domains.

A completed Bachelor's degree in Philosophy or in a related discipline (in the latter case, students must have acquired at least 60 EC in Philosophical disciplines).

The applicant must have a degree with merit or distinction or equivalent. Meaning: a student’s weighted grade-point average in philosophy in the 2nd and 3rd year of their Bachelor's programme must be the equivalent of 7.5 or more (on the Dutch scale of 10).
On the page "Conversions of international grades" you will find an indication of what the equivalent of a Dutch 7.5 or 8 might be in the country where you obtained your Bachelor’s degree.

A proficiency in English

In order to take part in this programme, you need to have fluency in both written and spoken English. Non-native speakers of English* without a Dutch Master's degree must either have obtained a higher diploma from an English-teaching institution or be in possession of one of the following certificates:

• A TOEFL score of ≥577 (paper based) or ≥90 (internet based)
• An IELTS score of ≥6.5
• Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) or Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) with a mark of C or higher

Highly motivated

An applicant must be able to demonstrate to the Examination Board that they have serious research interests and skills. Applicant must write a motivation letter and send a writing sample which can help evaluate their research and writing skills.

There are various scholarships available for studying at Radboud University. Some of the opportunities are described below. A full list, including detailed information, can be found on our scholarships and grants page at our website. 

Radboud Scholarship Programme

Open to a select number of excellent international students. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,083 in 2019/2020). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Orange Tulip Scholarship

Open to students from Brazil, Mexico, Russia, Indonesia, South-Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, and China. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,083 in 2019/2020). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Fulbright-Radboud Scholarships

Open to excellent American students. The grant will be paid in 12 monthly instalments of 1,050 euros. International travel and the cost of the residence permit will be covered, and an extra allowance of €1150 will be paid on arrival.

Sino-Dutch Bilateral Exchange Scholarship

Open to excellent students from China. Consists of a contribution of € 16,113 towards the total costs of one year of study or research in the Netherlands.

DIKTI-Neso Scholarships

Aimed at lecturers at higher education institutions in Indonesia who wish to pursue a PhD or Master's at a university in the Netherlands. A DIKTI scholarship includes allowances for living expenses, insurance, travel costs, tuition fees and more.

Indonesian Education Scholarship (LPDP)

Open to excellent Indonesian students under the age of 35. Involves a full scholarship.

Holland Scholarship Programme

Open to excellent students from Canada, America, India and Turkey. Scholarship consists of 5,000 euros payed at the start of study.

Dutch Student Finance

EU/EEA students and Swiss students under 30 years of age are eligible if they are working at least 56 hours per month in the Netherlands, or have been living in the Netherlands for five years or more. Dutch student finance consists of four components: a basic grant, a supplementary grant (depending on the parental income), a student travel product, and a loan.

Social and Political Philosophy at Radboud University offers students an in-depth exploration of fundamental questions about society, politics, and human rights. The program is designed to develop critical thinking and analytical skills, enabling students to evaluate complex societal issues from ethical, philosophical, and political perspectives. The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of topics, including justice, freedom, democracy, equality, human rights, and the ethical implications of political decisions. It combines theoretical frameworks with practical analysis, preparing students for careers in policy-making, academia, journalism, and civil society organizations.

Students will engage with classical and contemporary texts, participate in debates, and undertake research projects that hone their ability to formulate well-supported arguments. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating philosophy with political science, sociology, and law to provide a comprehensive understanding of social and political dynamics. Courses are often taught by renowned academics who are active researchers in the fields of ethics, political philosophy, and social theory, ensuring that students are exposed to the latest developments and debates.

Radboud University also promotes an international and inclusive learning environment, encouraging students to consider diverse perspectives and participate in global discussions. The program often includes opportunities for internships, study abroad, and collaborative research, equipping students with practical experience and a global outlook. Graduates of Social and Political Philosophy are well-prepared for further academic study or entering professional fields where critical thinking and ethical judgment are valued, such as public administration, international organizations, NGOs, or media. Radboud University’s strong reputation in the humanities and social sciences supports students in building a network of academic and professional contacts, enhancing their career prospects upon graduation.