Philosophy of Law, Governance and Politics (MA)
This master’s programme introduces the student to philosophical issues concerning the foundations of law, politics, and policy. This master’s programme is meant for students who wish to combine a master’s in philosophy with coursework in Law, Political Science, Public Administration, or an adjacent discipline.
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Why study Philosophy of Law, Governance, and Politics at Leiden University?
Leiden University is home to an internationally ranked Law School as well as excellent institutes for Political Science and Public Administration. Combined with the Institute of Philosophy, these institutions form the perfect setting for the study of issues concerning the foundations of law, politics, and public policy. In this programme students will learn about the philosophical, methodological, systematic, and normative questions that arise in the study of law, politics, and policy and learn to think systematically about the underlying philosophical questions of these disciplines. These questions concern the source of the authority of the state and its laws, democratic representation, and the implementation of political ideals in a non-ideal world. The combination of these courses with graduate work in law, politics, or public policy, is inspiring and thought-provoking.
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What are your career prospects?
Successful completion of the master’s programme provides excellent preparation for PhD research and an academic career, as well as for a career in the public, private or non-profit sectors. According to a 2025 survey, 67% of graduates of the MA120 found employment within six months of graduation, and 80% are employed at a university or HBO level.
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Is Philosophy of Law, Governance, and Politics the programme for you?
You should have an interest in the systematic questions that arise in studying law, policy, or politics. A love for analysing abstract problems and for discussing these intensively with your fellow students is essential. If, moreover, you are ambitious and not averse to hard intellectual work, you have what it takes to complete this programme successfully. Please note that to gain admission to the programme, you must show that you are eligible for master’s course work in one of the fields of law, governance, or politics. In many cases, it may also be beneficial to apply for a programme in one of these fields as well, and to pursue two master’s degrees simultaneously. If you have questions about securing eligibility, please see our FAQ or talk with our study advisor.