COURSE CURRICULUM

The two-year master’s program Philosophy in World Traditions at Leiden University combines courses in Philosophy with courses in Asian Studies or Middle Eastern Studies. Students often enrol simultaneously in a relevant master’s program offered by the Faculty of Humanities. The program integrates historical and systematic approaches to philosophy while providing in-depth study of primary philosophical texts from non-Western traditions.The curriculum is structured to provide both philosophical and area-specific expertise. Students take MA courses in a discipline outside philosophy, totaling 40 EC, and two specialist courses in intercultural philosophy for 20 EC. A core seminar of 10 EC and a mandatory course in comparative philosophy of 10 EC are included. Additionally, students choose two optional philosophy courses totaling 20 EC. The program culminates in a master’s thesis, supported by a thesis seminar and examination, accounting for 20 EC.Students also have opportunities to gain practical experience through an internship and may participate in exchange programs with other research universities. The course offerings cover topics such as Consciousness in Buddhism, Methods of Intercultural Philosophical Scholarship, The Self-No Self Debate in Classical Indian Thought, Buddhism: Topics, Language and Philosophy from Plato to ps-Dionysius, Phenomenology: Body and Embodiment, Philosophy of Religion, Aristotle's Metaphysics, and the Internship MA Philosophy.The program equips students with the ability to critically engage with diverse philosophical traditions, apply rigorous analytical methods, and develop comparative insights across cultures. Graduates are prepared for careers in research, academia, education, or cultural institutions, and they acquire the skills necessary to pursue further study or professional work in an international and intercultural context. For a detailed overview of courses and requirements, students should consult the program’s Prospectus.