Security Studies Leiden University

Overview

Why study Security Studies?

International terrorism, cybercrime, natural disasters and other issues affect the security and safety of millions each day. In Security Studies you learn to unravel security challenges by focusing on the political, historical and societal context in which they arise, as well as the effect of governance, institutions, and the media. 

You gain an academic perspective, and the ability to think critically about complex issues while taking all relevant factors of specific security challenges into account.

In this Security Studies programme from Leiden University you will also study various crises and crisis management. Crises are unforeseen situations which require impactful decisions in times of stress and chaos. How do governments and private actors work together to prevent, response to, and recover from crises such as natural disasters and pandemics? 

For example, in the course Case study: Fukushima, students will look into the Fukushima nuclear disaster that happened in 2011 in Japan and in the course Vital interests we will further discuss the SARS epidemic.

Why Security Studies at Leiden University?

This English-taught programme challenges you to combine critical thinking with a practical attitude and helps you to develop into an all-round, academically trained, highly employable security specialist.

• International community
• Interdisciplinary approach security and safety challenge
• Research-led and practice-oriented
• Three-step teaching philosophy: Explore, Understand and Do
• Combination of lectures and skills labs; where academic and professional skills are trained in small groups
• Taught in the Centre of The Hague; the international City of Peace, Justice and Security

Is this the programme for you?

• Do you read the international news with interest, seeking the interaction between global (security) events and their effect upon people, nations and organisations?

• Are you an engaged and curious critical thinker?

• Are you stimulated to find solutions to the crucial security and safety issues that arise every day?

• Do you want to learn from leading academics and security professionals?

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. Once you have successfully completed your master’s you will have earned the title Master of Science (MSc) or Master of Arts(MA). Your master’s diploma will increase your chances of finding a job or academic-level position.  

Your future workplace will depend upon your interests, knowledge and skills, and on the elective choices you’ve made during your study. Students who complete this programme find themselves prepared for a wide range of sectors and occupations.