COURSE CURRICULUM

The one-year master’s program in Identity and Conflict at Leiden University emphasizes both academic and professional development. Students begin by familiarizing themselves with the state-of-the-art in political science and take a core course on governance and diversity in developing countries. In addition to these mandatory courses, they can choose from a range of elective seminars covering various subdisciplines of political science, allowing them to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals.The program also offers the opportunity to gain practical experience through internships, depending on eligibility and availability. A key component of the program is the research thesis, which is completed within a thesis seminar dedicated to topics in nationalism, ethnicity, and development. Students work under the close supervision of academic staff, ensuring personalized guidance and support throughout the research process. The thesis allows students to apply their knowledge, develop analytical skills, and contribute original insights to the field.Courses are taught in small groups, fostering personal interaction with instructors and peers. This environment encourages discussion, debate, and collaboration, enhancing both learning and professional networking. The program equips students with strong academic skills, research competence, and practical experience, preparing them for careers in policy-making, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, research institutes, or further academic study at the doctoral level. It combines rigorous theoretical foundations with applied skills, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to address the complex challenges of identity-based mobilization and conflict in diverse global contexts.