MA in Philosophy - Philosophy of Humanities

Leiden University

The master's programme in Philosophy of Humanities at Leiden University allows you to specialise in conceptual and methodological issues in the Humanities.

Why study Philosophy of Humanities at Leiden University?

Taught by Leiden University's acclaimed international faculty, this programme explores three areas of the humanities: European culture, language and thought, and literature and art.

Explore what Nietzsche called European nihilism. Discover how languages are not interchangeable and that language is more than an instrument of expression. Critique Nietzsche's metaphysics and the role played by philosophical aesthetics in the destruction of the traditional aesthetic and the emergence of modern art.

Philosophy of Humanities degree

Philosophy of Humanities at Leiden University is an accredited degree programme. After successful completion of this programme, you will receive a master’s degree in Philosophy and the title Master of Arts (MA).

Career prospects

Create a world of opportunities with a Master's degree from Leiden University

Your qualifications

The master’s programme in Philosophy (120 EC) offers outstanding preparation for students seeking a profession that requires knowledge of a specific discipline and the added value of advanced skills in logic, reasoning, abstraction and critical thinking.

What our graduates do

Successful completion of the master’s programme can lead to PhD research and an academic career, or in the public, private or non-profit sectors. 75% of our students choose to enter a PhD programme after their studies, primarily in the Netherlands, the UK, the US, Germany or France. The remaining 25% already have a job when they joined the programme and were seeking to enhance their performance.

Teacher qualification

If you are interested in a career in teaching, you can apply for the Dutch-taught teacher-training MA at the ICLON Graduate School of Education after graduating from the master’s programme. To be admitted, you need to have a master’s degree in the relevant discipline. Fluency in Dutch is mandatory, and additional entry requirements may apply.

A Leiden University degree

Leiden University Master's graduates are sought-after employees at (inter)national organisations. Our graduates are known for their combination of robust academic training, in-depth and relevant knowledge, and critical, multidisciplinary approach to problem-solving.