Program Overview
The International Relations: European Union Studies at Leiden University is a MA programme in Social Sciences over 12 months, delivered On-campus. This programme equips graduates with advanced knowledge and practical skills for professional and academic careers in the field.
Students gain a rigorous grounding in both the theoretical foundations and applied dimensions of social sciences. The programme combines coursework, research components, and practical projects that develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and specialist expertise relevant to industry and research needs.
Graduates of the International Relations: European Union Studies programme are well-prepared for careers in academia, industry, government, and the private sector across Netherlands and internationally. The programme provides an internationally recognised qualification within the Bologna higher education framework.
Key Program Features
- Duration: 12 months
- Language of instruction: English
- Study mode: On-campus
- English requirement: IELTS 7
- Tuition: EUR 16,400 (Tuition (Year)) — International students; EUR 14,700 (Tuition (Year)) — EU/EEA students
- Location: Leiden, Netherlands
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the International Relations: European Union Studies programme are prepared for diverse careers in social sciences:
- Policy Analyst
- NGO Programme Manager
- Researcher
- Social Worker
- Diplomat
- Development Consultant
Program Curriculum
Course Structure
- Institutions of the EU
- The History of European Integration
- European Law
- Economics of the EU
- Agricultural and Rural Development and Refugees
- Migration and Justice
- Economic and Social Policy
- Foreign and Security Policy
- EU enlargement
Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements
Knowledge minimum: Applicants should have completed components at the bachelor\'s level equivalent to at least 30 ECTS in the field of contemporary European studies with comparable content and course objectives.
\nPrevious education: A bachelor\'s degree from a university, equivalent to the level of a Dutch academic bachelor\'s degree, in the field of social sciences, humanities, law or economics.
\nWritten request: The motivation letter (max. 800 words) should include a clear indication of the reasons why you are applying for European Union Studies.
\nAdditional language requirements:
- Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English: C2
- IELTS overall band: 7
- TOEFL paper based: 600
- TOEFL computer based: 250
- TOEFL internet based: 100
English Proficiency: IELTS 7 or equivalent.
Tuition & Financial Information
Tuition Fee
EUR 16,400 (Tuition (Year)) — International students; EUR 14,700 (Tuition (Year)) — EU/EEA students
Tuition fees: EUR 16,400 (Tuition (Year)) — International students; EUR 14,700 (Tuition (Year)) — EU/EEA students
IELTS requirement: 7
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Contact Leiden University directly for scholarship, grant, and financial aid information for this programme. Many European universities offer merit-based and need-based funding for international and domestic students.
About Leiden University
Leiden University
Leiden, Netherlands
Leiden University is a distinguished institution of higher education committed to academic excellence, innovative research, and preparing students for leadership in their chosen fields. The...
University Profile- Start Date January 2026
- Language English
- Duration 12 months
- Credits 30