Political science is a broad study with a lot of depth. You study political issues at local, national and international level, from different perspectives. At the start of your studies, you can choose from two directions: Nationale en Internationale Politiek or International Relations and Organisations. You will be taught by renown researchers in their field.
As of 1 October 2025 you can register for 2026-2027.
Political Science: two specialisations
Political Science: International Relations and Organisations
IRO gives you a solid foundation in Political Science; the emphasis from the outset is on international relations and organisations. So you choose this angle right away.
IRO is taught in The Hague, home to many international organisations, NGOs and, of course, the Dutch government. The Hague has a slightly more metropolitan vibe, with plenty of entertainment options as well. Student life is developing, but somewhat less prominent than in Leiden.
IRO is a community of students from all over the world.
The programme is entirely in English.
IRO targets both domestic and foreign students and generally receives more applications than NIP.
The IRO specialisation does have a numerus fixus. You can apply between 1 October and 15 January. The number of available study places is then distributed in a selection and placement procedure.
Politicologie: Nationale en Internationale Politiek
You will get a solid foundation in Political Science; further on in your studies you can add emphases as you see fit. You can focus on politics in the Netherlands, the European Union or worldwide, but also on other themes.
This specialisation is taught in Leiden. Leiden has traditionally been a student city, with all its amenities. The train station and the cozy city center are just a stone's throw away.
NIP is specifically aimed at Dutch-speaking students.
Most courses are taught in Dutch. You can do assignments, exams, etc. in Dutch. NIP is a smaller scale programme than IRO. The target group is smaller and so there are fewer registrations, which means that you are usually taught in smaller groups.
There is no numerus fixus for this programme; you can apply between 1 October and 1 May. If you are immediately eligible, you are guaranteed a place.
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