COURSE CURRICULUM

The Advanced Studies program in Law and Digital Technologies at Leiden University offers an in-depth exploration of the legal and governance challenges brought about by the rapid expansion of digital technologies. The program is structured around a combination of theoretical, legal, and practical approaches. Students engage with regulatory theory, covering internet governance and techno-regulation, and study national, European, and international legal frameworks, including hard law, soft law, and case law. Beyond the legal dimension, the program places strong emphasis on the ethical and societal challenges posed by digital technologies, ensuring that students gain a comprehensive understanding of their impact on society. Another unique feature is that students are also introduced to the technological side of digital innovation, which enriches their ability to engage with legal questions in context. The program culminates in the writing of a final thesis, allowing students to apply their knowledge and research skills to a specific issue of their interest.Teaching is conducted in small, seminar-style classes, fostering interactivity and active participation. This format ensures a stimulating learning environment where students critically engage with materials and debate contemporary issues with peers and lecturers. The faculty comprises experts with diverse backgrounds, combining academic excellence with professional practice. Many lecturers hold positions at leading international law firms such as NautaDutilh, Bird & Bird, Clifford Chance, and Visser Schaap & Kreijger, as well as advisory firms and companies like C-Legal, KPN Telecom, and Considerati. This blend of academic and professional expertise bridges theory and practice, offering students real-world perspectives on how legal challenges in the digital domain are addressed in both corporate and policy settings. By the end of the program, students are well-prepared to navigate the complex intersection of law, technology, and society, making them highly valuable in legal practice, policymaking, and academia.