COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master’s specialisation in European Law at Leiden University is built on the Europa Institute’s research program, “The progression of EU law: Accommodating change and upholding values,” and provides a rigorous, one-year course of study for students seeking a deep understanding of European Union law. The program is distinguished by its broad intra-disciplinary approach, integrating institutional, constitutional, and substantive EU law with human rights from an EU perspective. Students explore the institutional structure of the Union, examining both the current Treaty framework and proposed reforms such as those in the Treaty of Lisbon, while developing a thorough understanding of the mechanisms through which fundamental rights are protected within the EU legal order. The curriculum also addresses the relationship between EU law and national legal systems, highlighting how the Union’s legal principles are implemented across member states and how conflicts between different levels of law are resolved. Students gain insight into the EU’s role in global governance, including its interaction with international law, and the ways in which trade, commerce, and competition are regulated at the European level. Through a combination of seminars, case studies, and research-led instruction, students develop critical analytical skills, practical legal knowledge, and a nuanced understanding of how EU law operates both in theory and in practice. By the end of the program, graduates are equipped to evaluate and apply EU law across a wide range of contexts and are prepared for careers in European institutions, international organisations, law firms, corporate legal departments, or advanced academic research. The program’s comprehensive and interdisciplinary focus ensures that students are prepared to navigate the legal, political, and economic complexities of the European Union with expertise and confidence.