COURSE CURRICULUM

The two-year master’s program in Philosophy of Humanities at Leiden University provides an in-depth study of the philosophical foundations and methodological approaches of various disciplines within the humanities. Students take courses both at the Leiden Institute for Philosophy and in other departments of the Faculty of Humanities, often enrolling in a complementary master’s program within the faculty. The philosophy courses integrate historical and systematic approaches and focus on the study of primary philosophical texts, combining both continental and analytical traditions.The program consists of MA courses in a discipline outside philosophy (40 EC), specialist courses (20 EC), optional courses in philosophy (40 EC), and a master’s thesis with accompanying seminars and examination (20 EC). Courses cover topics such as German Idealism, Nietzsche and law, phenomenology, Aristotle’s metaphysics, philosophy and psychoanalysis, philosophy and empire, and method and interpretation in the humanities. Students also have the opportunity to undertake an internship to gain practical experience or participate in an exchange program at a partner university.The program aims to develop advanced knowledge and understanding of philosophical methods and their application across the humanities, while fostering analytical and critical thinking, logical reasoning, and effective communication skills. Through coursework, seminars, independent research, and practical experiences, students are prepared to apply philosophical inquiry to complex questions in their chosen disciplines. Graduates gain the intellectual tools and professional skills to pursue careers in academia, research, cultural institutions, and other fields where deep analytical insight and interdisciplinary understanding are valued.