Global Order in Historical Perspective (MA)
The specialisation Global Order in Historical Perspective of the master’s in International Relations at Leiden University focuses on examining the historical processes behind the evolution of the global order.
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Start in February 2024
Apply before 15 October 2023 to start the Global Order in Historical Perspective programme in February 2024. Start your application.

A top-ranking programme
According to the QS World University Rankings 2023, History at Leiden University is rated 1st in continental Europe and 17th in the world.
Why study Global Order in Historical Perspective at Leiden University?
The specialisation in Global Order in Historical Perspective explores the ways in which global order has historically changed. You will examine different ideas and practices relating to state-making, revolutions, imperialism, diplomacy and more. The programme draws on a multidisciplinary approach to shed light on these issues, and especially the role of race, class and gender takes a central role.
The courses are taught by staff with a wide range of expertise. The programme incorporates history, politics and social sciences. During your studies, you will also benefit from the close contacts between the university and (inter)national government institutions in the Hague, as well as the great amount of knowledge on area studies at Leiden University.
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What are your career prospects?
This Master's prepares you for a wide range of roles in almost every sector of the job market. Our graduates work at different types of organisations, such as research institutes, international organisations, government bodies, media and academia. Jobs include policy advisor, consultant and journalist.
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Is Global Order in Historical Perspective the programme for you?
Are you interested in international relations? Do you want to examine the historical processes behind the evolution of the global order? Then the specialisation in Global Order in Historical Perspective at Leiden University is the right Master's programme for you. Find out if you are eligible for this Master's programme by checking the admission requirements.
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Do a second MA at Johns Hopkins SAIS Europe: School of Advanced International Studies
Due to a special agreement, students with a Leiden MA degree in International Relations can earn a second degree at the European Campus of Johns Hopkins University SAIS in Bologna, Italy. Successful applicants gain access to the second year of the research focused Master of Arts in International Affairs (MAIA) and will be given a full year’s credit towards this two-year MA. The programme is research-orientated and allows students to personalise their curriculum and focus on the contemporary issues in international affairs aligned with their career interests. The courses offered at SAIS Europe emphasise economics, political science, history and foreign language proficiency, providing a cross-disciplinary approach.
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