International Studies

The MA specialisation International Studies focuses on the diversity and complexity of today’s rapidly changing world. Our specialisation is primarily concerned with the interrelationship between global, regional and national ideas and policies, across time and space. Our international contacts give you the chance to become acquainted with both the theoretical and practical aspects of international relations.

Our interdisciplinary programme in International Studies stems from a multidisciplinary faculty, as we are firmly anchored within the humanities. Our humanities’ approach makes a difference. We focus on multiple levels of analysis to bridge the gap between relations among states (international relations) and developments within states.

Real world people and policies are central to our curriculum, but we also engage with models and theories from around the world to consider how different people conceptualise global politics. Our programme therefore extends beyond the policies and institutions of the Western world, and encourages you to foster a critical and comparative approach in your study of international relations.
Most importantly, International Studies takes very seriously the cultures, the ideas and beliefs that underlie the current processes of global change.

Five reasons to choose International Studies at Leiden University:

• Our integrative study of the changing nature of global politics gives you a clear focus on the historical and actual dimensions of the ideas and beliefs that underlie current processes of change;
• Our starting point is the assumption that national and international factors today are inextricably linked. The distinction between domestic and international politics is becoming increasingly artificial;
• You will develop a critical, cross-cultural and comparative approach to the study of international relations as we go beyond the well-known policies and institutions of the Western world;
• You will acquire a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience;
• You will benefit from the close contacts between the University and national and international government institutions in The Hague, as well as the unique wealth of area studies at Leiden University.