Security Studies (BSc)

What if a natural disaster strikes an unprepared city? What if international tensions suddenly escalate into conflict? These scenarios highlight how complex and urgent modern-day security problems are, and why a new generation of security experts is needed.

Gatha Patil

Student ambassador

“Being a Security Studies student has been incredibly rewarding. Studying in the heart of The Hague, I’ve learned how cooperation, creativity, and communication are essential to addressing today’s global challenges. The programme’s ‘Explore, Understand, Do’ approach provides a holistic understanding of complex issues, with case studies that highlight the importance of context. My favourite so far has been Fukushima, which illustrates the many moving parts involved in responding to a disaster. Covering topics from wars and cybercrime to natural and man-made disasters, this programme is perfect for anyone eager to tackle real-world problems.”

Filip Krčmář

Student Ambassador

"I chose the Bachelor Security Studies because I wanted to engage with real-world issues in an academic setting. One of the most memorable moments for me was during the Case Study Syria in my first year. While we were studying the conflict, new developments were unfolding in real time, and our professors immediately addressed these changes in class. This dynamic approach showed me how relevant and responsive the programme is to current global events."

"The international classroom has also been incredibly valuable. Hearing perspectives from classmates around the world has broadened my understanding of security and the society we live in. Thanks to the ‘Explore, Understand, Do’ method introduced by our professors, I am learning how to connect theory with practice and build skills directly applicable to the professional field. For anyone interested in security, safety, and international challenges, this programme is a fantastic choice."

Nina Bruin

Alumnus

"In my opinion, the Bachelor Security Studies is vital in our current-day society. Topics range from terrorism to climate change, from organisational crime to war and peacebuilding, from cybersecurity to nuclear safety. The range of subjects is complemented by the fact that this programme takes an interdisciplinary approach. You study the topics from various perspectives; political science, law, economics, and so on. If these topics and disciplines spark your interest, then the Bachelor Security Studies may be a good fit for you."

Why study Security Studies?

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 bachelor programme 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. In the course Vital interests we will further discuss the SARS epidemic. 

Why Security Studies at Leiden University?

Studying Security Studies at Leiden University, means:

• Being part of an international community;
• Learning an interdisciplinary approach to security and safety challenges;
• A programme which is research-led and practice-oriented;
• A three-step teaching philosophy: Explore, Understand and Do;
• A combination of lectures and skills labs; where academic and professional skills are trained in small groups;
• You will have classes 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?

Then the bachelor programme Security Studies is for you!

Chat with a student

Do you have a question about studying at Leiden University or student life in Leiden or in The Hague? Do you want more information about the Security Studies? Chat with a current student for answers to your questions.