MA Philosophy (120EC)

The two-year master's programme in Philosophy at Leiden University investigates the fundamental principles underpinning human knowledge while cultivating your capacity for reason and sound argumentation.

This demanding and high-level programme is ideal for students who wish to enhance their knowledge of a particular discipline with complementary understanding of its philosophical foundations combined with further honing of their analytical thinking skills.

Five specialisations; five academic disciplines

The master in Philosophy offers you the choice of five specialisations: humanities, law, natural sciences, political science, and psychology. Each specialisation delves deep into the philosophical foundations and methodological approaches underpinning that discipline. Content incorporates the very latest academic theory and the field’s historical development across a number of branches of philosophy.

Specialisations

• Philosophy of Political Science (MA)
• Philosophy of Psychology (MA)
• Philosophy of Humanities (MA)
• Philosophy of Law (MA)
• Philosophy of Natural Sciences (MA)

Hone your intellect

The intellectual tools yielded by the study of philosophy are typically transferable skills to complement any given profession. The master in Philosophy will train you to become an outstanding critical thinker, capable of breaking down the most complex ideas and evaluating the principles upon which various positions are based. During your master, you will study, analyse and discuss primary philosophical texts while learning how to develop and communicate your own theories and ideas.

Learn from thought leaders

At Leiden University, great minds have been gathering for over five hundred years to explore fundamental questions relating to human existence. Today, the Institute for Philosophy at Leiden University is an international centre for research and education, with an expansive network of partner institutes and an active programme of visiting lecturers.

During your master’s programme in Philosophy, you learn from researchers of the highest international standing. These lecturers are committed to helping you reach your potential, from using their contacts to help you get the internship you want, to inspiring you to challenge traditional ways of thinking. At Leiden, small classes allow for plenty of direct contact between you and your lecturers. Outside of class, an open door policy means that support is on hand at any time.

Admission and Application

We invite motivated students from around the world to apply for the Master of Arts in Philosophy (120). Admission requirements may vary per specialisation, please visit the specialisation of your interest to find out more about the entry requirements:

https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/education/study-programmes/master/philosophy-120ec/admission-and-application