History (research) (MA)
The Research Master History offers an advanced and rigorous historical education, ideal for students aiming to pursue a PhD or a career in research.
A top-ranking programme
Study at the best History programme in the Netherlands! History in Leiden is ranked the best in the Netherlands, the best in continental Europe and #13 worldwide (QS World University Rankings 2026). Our students report the highest level of programme satisfaction among all History Research Master’s in the Netherlands (NSE 2026).
Why study the Research Master History?
The programme combines reflection on the theoretical foundations of the discipline with empirical research, providing you with the tools to explore complex global questions across time and place. It places a strong emphasis on methodological diversity, interdisciplinary inquiry, and personalized academic development. You will benefit from the full breadth of expertise offered by Leiden researchers and their networks. The structure of the programme ensures a high degree of flexibility, allowing you to pursue your own ambitions and develop specialist knowledge in your chosen field of interest.
Learn more about the study programme
Why Leiden University?
As a Research Master Student, you will become part of one of Europe’s premier research institutions for history and its vibrant academic community. We offer small-scale seminars, individual supervision, and close collaboration with renowned scholars. The university’s extensive connections with museums, archives, and research institutes offer unparalleled research opportunities and practical training. Leiden’s academic environment is both international and intellectually stimulating, fostering close interaction with experts and peers in a vibrant scholarly community.
What are your career prospects?
The Research Master prepares you for an academic career starting with a PhD, but also equips you for other research positions, e.g. in government, heritage institutions, and think tanks. Students graduate with robust methodological training, strong analytical abilities, and experience in conducting original research. These skills are transferable to any role requiring critical thinking, historical knowledge, and independent project work.
Find out more about your career prospects
Marit did a research internship at museum De Lakenhal
The depot of Museum de Lakenhal houses three nineteenth-century sample books in which the cotton company De Heyder & Co kept precise records of who placed which orders. History Research Master student Marit Scheepsma used them to find out more about the company's colonial contacts. Read more.
Is this programme for you?
The Research Master History is for ambitious students with a strong academic background and a clear interest in pursuing historical research at the highest level. If you enjoy independent study, want to explore interdisciplinary questions, and are considering a PhD, this is a perfect fit. You should be intellectually curious, self-motivated, and eager to engage deeply with historical sources and theories. Do you want to find out if you are eligible for this Master's programme?
Join an active student community
As a Research MA student, you will become part of a close-knit community of historical experts and other Research Master History students. A dedicated Research MA room provides a quiet place to study and keep your books on campus. Monthly talks, drinks and other activities give you a chance to make friends, create collaborations, and build your academic network.
Alicia Schrikker
Professor of the Netherlands in the World and Director of Research
It really is a joy to work with Research Master students. They are curious and focused and often come up with new and original questions. The global outlook of our programme enables the students to look at complex historical problems from multiple perspectives and it is exciting to see them grow into creative and responsible researchers along the way.
Chat with a student
Do you have a question about student life in Leiden, studying at Leiden University, or do you want more information about the Research Master History? Chat with a current student for answers to your questions!