COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master’s specialisation in European Union Studies at Leiden University provides students with a multidisciplinary understanding of European integration, combining rigorous academic training with practical insights into policymaking processes in Europe. The program covers the history, institutions, law, and economics of the European Union through four core courses, supplemented by two electives, an EU Seminar, a thesis preparation course, and the final Master’s thesis. This structure equips students with a comprehensive understanding of the EU’s political, legal, and economic frameworks, while also fostering analytical and research skills essential for evaluating complex European issues. Students have the opportunity to complement their studies with internships at organisations in the Netherlands or abroad, which are highly valued by international institutions. Previous students have interned at the Dutch Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, embassies worldwide, media outlets such as EenVandaag, the Netherlands Permanent Mission to the United Nations, the Netherlands Institute for International Relations ‘Clingendael,’ the International Centre for Counterterrorism, and the Hague Centre for Strategic Studies. Alongside coursework, students participate in EU Seminar Series featuring practitioners from diverse professional backgrounds, providing direct insights into the workings of European institutions and the contemporary challenges facing the Union. This combination of theory, research, and practical exposure enables students to gain a nuanced perspective on European governance, policymaking, and integration processes. Graduates emerge with strong analytical, research, and professional skills, preparing them for careers in European institutions, international organisations, diplomacy, policy analysis, and related fields. By integrating multidisciplinary academic training with real-world engagement, the program equips students to navigate and contribute effectively to the complex European political and socio-economic landscape.