BA in International Studies

Leiden University

Are you fascinated by how globalisation affects world regions? Do you want to really understand other cultures from a wide range of perspectives, and apply this knowledge in your future career? Then International Studies is for you!

Why study International Studies?

• The Bachelor’s in International Studies is a 3-year English-taught programme that offers you the opportunity to study the issues and effects of globalisation by focusing on one of eight world regions.
• You develop expertise ranging from proficiency in one of your chosen region’s languages to an in-depth understanding of its culture, history, politics and economy.
• Unique to any Humanities programme, this BA integrates real hands-on experience of working with organisations and businesses into its curriculum.

Why International Studies at Leiden University?

Do you want to gain deep, broad knowledge about a particular world region, in a globalised context? International Studies is for you!

• Study in The Hague, the centre of international politics and policy-making in the Netherlands.
• Choose to specialise in one of eight world regions.
• Learn a language from your chosen region.
• Develop a global mindset in an international classroom.
• Benefit from the strong career focus that is integrated into this programme, including the culminating PRINS consultancy course.
• Study at a top-ranking university: in 2017 the Guardian QS World University Rankings placed Leiden #26 in the world, #7 in Europe and #1 in the Netherlands in political and International Studies.

Is this the programme for you?

International Studies offers a unique mix of multidisciplinary perspectives - history, culture, economics, politics – of a particular world region, and the language, academic and practical skills to solve complex issues arising from globalisation.

• Do you pay close attention to world news?
• Do you look for connections between world and regional events and their impact on local populations?
• Do you want to develop professional skills and hands-on experience working with real global organisations?

After graduation

Graduates of International Studies are attractive candidates for international employers in a wide variety of fields – think NGOs, multinationals, humanitarian or governmental agencies. Your deep region-specific knowledge and language, academic and practical skills prepare you for a Master, as well as employment.

What are your skills after graduation?

The three year bachelor in International Studies provides students with the tools to investigate globalisation and its regional effects from a humanities perspective. These effects are studied through the prism of four perspectives: culture, history, politics and economics, coupled with in-depth knowledge of one of eight world regions.

Your career prospects

Do you want to follow a full academic programme? After obtaining your bachelor’s degree you can continue with a master’s programme. Your master’s diploma will increase your chances of finding a job at a higher (academic) level.

Career Service

The Career Service of Leiden University’s Faculty of Humanities will be pleased to give you personal advice and guidance about internships and jobs, as well as courses and workshops in career-planning, job-applications and interviews. We can also provide contact details for potential employers. Furthermore, an internship coordinator and career advisor will help you match your interests and abilities with suitable internships and career options. You can contact the Student Career Service up to six months after you graduate.