COURSE CURRICULUM

The two-year master’s program in Philosophy of Law, Governance, and Politics at Leiden University is designed for students who wish to combine philosophical study with advanced coursework in Law, Political Science, Public Administration, International Relations, or related disciplines. Students often enrol simultaneously in one of the relevant master’s programs offered by the Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, the Faculty of Governance and Global Affairs, or the Law School, allowing for a multidisciplinary approach to learning.Philosophy courses in the program integrate historical and systematic approaches and involve the study of primary philosophical texts. The curriculum is structured to provide a balance between philosophical theory and practical applications in law, politics, and governance. Students complete 40 EC of courses in a discipline outside philosophy, two specialist courses in Philosophy of Political Science (20 EC), a core seminar (10 EC), one mandatory course in Practical Philosophy (10 EC), two optional philosophy courses (20 EC), and a master’s thesis including thesis seminars and examination (20 EC).The program encourages critical engagement with fundamental questions concerning state authority, democratic representation, freedom, justice, equality, and normative principles guiding political and legal institutions. Students also explore practical judgement, rationality, and the philosophical dimensions of concealment and disclosure in democratic societies. Optional internships and exchange programs allow students to gain hands-on experience and broaden their academic and professional skills.Assessment is based on class participation, presentations, assignments, research papers, and the master’s thesis. The thesis, supported by seminars, enables students to make an independent academic contribution to philosophy while linking their philosophical insights to law, governance, or politics. Graduates are prepared for careers in research, policy analysis, advisory roles, or further academic study.