Public Administration (MSc)

Master

Discover the world at Leiden University

Specialisations
  • Economics and Governance (MSc)
  • International and European Governance (MSc)
  • Public Management and Leadership (MSc)

How do we address the world's most pressing issues through governance? The Master of Public Administration gives you a unique multi-level perspective on the management of global political, economic and social actors, with three specialisations to suit your specific interest.

Man Yin Kelly Tseung

Master student Public Administration

Man Yin Kelly Tseung

'From my experience, I can agree the Hague is the perfect campus for Public Administration students.'

I am interested in the complex socio-political challenges presented every day in various forms. Hence, I decided to do this Master's  Programme in Public Administration to widen my horizon and to better understand the multi-perspective approach to wicked problems of today’s relevance.

Leiden University provides up-to-date knowledge and education with renowned professors and scholars specialised in their field of expertise. They offer interactive lectures and tutorials discussing relevant social challenges and implementing theoretical knowledge to case analysis. The courses are challenging but stimulating at the same time, prompting students to think, participate and discuss openly in the classroom.

From my experience, I can agree that The Hague is the perfect campus for Public Administration students. The city is the economic and political hub of the Netherlands, and many student associations are present, offering 'borrels' as well as guest lectures and study trips. Furthermore, many extracurricular activities such as open days of embassies and international organisations, for instance the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), are very encouraged to visit. Likewise for oportunities to learn more about the organisations as well as prospective career paths! In addition, the city as well as the university is very well-travelled. It has been my pleasure to be in contact with peers and professors of different backgrounds and it is a great environment to develop soft skills and learn from each other.

Prof. dr. Kutsal Yesilkagit

Professor

Prof. dr. Kutsal Yesilkagit

"How can we address humankind’s most pressing problems from the perspective of governance?"

Although these and many other challenges differ in many ways, they all share a common underlying dimension, namely public governance: to address them in a meaningful way we need knowledge about political, administrative and societal actors and processes.

In the Master we concentrate on the management, steering, and coordination of political, administrative, economic, and social actors and the formal and informal regimes and policy processes within which they act towards addressing collective social problems at regional, national, and international levels.

In our Master we will teach you that societal challenges are multi-level governance problems. For example, the Ebola disease started as a local governance problem of a few countries but transformed itself rapidly into a global problem due to the disease’s spread by means of modern transportation. We will also teach you that such societal challenges require a multi-disciplinary perspective. It requires the knowledge of economic, political, organizational, management and legal studies to gain a better understanding of them.

And, finally, we also will show you that societal challenges are transboundary problems. That is, they involve both the public and the private sector. This is what we aim for then: educating future academics with the state-of-the-art scientific knowledge and professional skills that are capable of addressing our most important challenges. We educate people who know that governments alone can no longer steer societies on their own but need partners to do the job. Thus, we educate knowledge entrepreneurs, capable of working within (semi) public as well as private organizations towards solving our pressing social and economic problems.

Prof. dr. Sandra Groeneveld

Professor

Prof. dr. Sandra Groeneveld

“Public managers connect people to purpose”

The Public Management and Leadership specialisation focuses on how public managers can contribute to the organisational capacity to solve societal problems by balancing the management of external relations with internal management activities. The management of public organizations is vital to the effectiveness of public policies since policy outputs and outcomes are to be generated by public organizations and their employees, often within complex networks with other public, non-profit and private sector organizations. We study how public managers’ leadership connects people to the purpose of delivering public value.

Public management as a field of study essentially focuses on public performance. We analyse managers’ decision making regarding the achievement of potentially contradictory organizational goals and how the effectiveness of their decisions is contingent upon the institutional context in which the organization is embedded. This context may provide opportunities, but also constraints, such as decreasing resources in the realm of the economic crisis.

Students of Public Management acquire knowledge and understanding of the key concepts and theories of public management as well as of state-of-the-art academic research. On top of this they develop the professional skills to use their knowledge in responding to management challenges in international, national and local public organizational settings.

What does this master's programme entail?

Across the globe our governments and societies are confronted with enormous challenges that raise new organisational, policy, and ethical issues. The main focus of the Master of Public Administration is on the management, steering, and coordination of political, administrative, economic, and social actors and the contexts in which they act. It will equip you with the skills to address policy issues at local, regional and international levels.

Read more about the Public Administration programme.

3 reasons to choose Public Administration at Leiden University

Find out more reasons to choose Public Administration.

Public Administration: the right programme for you?

Then this programme is for you!

Read more about the admission requirements.

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 Master of Public Administration? Chat with a current student for answers to your questions!

Why Leiden University?

Societies worldwide are being confronted with big challenges, the follow-on from such issues as climate change, technological innovations, political and economic crises. In the Master Public Administration (MSc.) you address these issues from a multi-level governance perspective.

Four reasons why should study Public Administration in The Hague

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Study at the Faculty of Governance and Global Affairs

The  Faculty of Governance and Global Affairs (FGGA) is Leiden University’s newest faculty, located in The Hague. The Faculty of Governance and Global Affairs has developed into a faculty that works beyond the traditional disciplinary boundaries, in innovating and international teaching programmes and in crossborder research fields with a strong valorisation component. Facing important socio-cultural issues of the 21st century like climate change, terrorism and economic crises, requires a substantial and in-depth scientific knowledge to develop the necessary innovating insights into the field of (public) administration and social sectors like sustainability, public health, (inter)national safety, law, globalisation, technological developments, digitalisation, security and big data.

Study at a world-class university

Leiden University is the oldest university in the Netherlands and enjoys an excellent worldwide reputation built up over more than four centuries. Since 1575 we’ve provided sound personal education for hundreds of thousands of students from all over the world. We’ll do our utmost to give you the best possible support. And if you can and want to do more, we’ll challenge you every step of the way. For many years, we’ve been among the leaders in Dutch university rankings and we are currently to be found in a variety of top international rankings too.
More reasons to choose Leiden University

About the programme

The Master of Public Administration is a master's degree focussed on governance from a multi-level perspective. You will hone your research skills in this strongly academic master's programme. You will combine research with practical experience, working on cases while being taught and guided by speakers and experts from the field. You will also develop the professional skills demanded of public administration experts by the labour market. Furthermore, you will examine the normative ethical aspects op policy: what is considered to be acceptable behaviour for a manager or organisation.

Joost Dalhuijsen

Student Public Administration

Joost Dalhuijsen

'For my master thesis I am doing empirical research on the consideration students make between taking on a student loan or working part time during their study. Specifically I look at how this affects academic performance and what policy implications this has.'

Economics in society

My choice for the specialisation of Economics and Governance of the Master Public Administration stems from my positive experience with the preceding bachelor. Both focus on societal issues from an economic viewpoint and on the relationship between government & market.

The program lends itself for researching a broad range of subjects as long as the public policy aspect is represented. The economic courses have helped me discover my interest in the financial sector, whether that’s the financial system in general or personal finances. I learned a lot about the different institutions that come into play in this sector and see myself working with similiar topics in the future.

Master thesis

For my master thesis I am doing empirical research on the consideration students make between taking on a student loan or working part time during their study. Specifically I look at how this affects academic performance and what policy implications this has.

I would definitely recommend this program to anyone with a broad interest in society and who plans on working in the (semi) public sector.

Focus

The Master of Public Administration focusses on the management, steering, and coordination of political, administrative, economic, and social actors, as well as the formal and informal regimes and policy processes within which they act towards addressing collective social problems at regional, national, and international levels. A defining hallmark of the master is that governance is studied and taught from a multi-level perspective. This means that there is no single level of governance at which societal challenges can be addressed best. For example, the Ebola disease started as a local governance problem of a few countries but transformed itself rapidly into a global problem due to the disease’s spread by means of modern transportation. Boat refugees, to take another example, who flee their homelands because of local famine or civil wars poses a major challenge for the European Union.

Programme structure

Students following this programme can choose between three specialisations: 'Economics and Governance', 'International and European Governance' and 'Public Management and Leadership'. The programme consists of core courses, specialisation courses, an electives, and a master's thesis.

Courses

The core courses ensure that students master the most important theoretical and analytical approaches in the analysis of institutions and policy processes, as well as essential analytical and research skills. Specialisation courses allow students to learn more about the problems and state-of-the art research within the context of each of the three specialisations, culminating in an independently conducted master thesis project.

Curriculum division

Extra-curricular

Are you ready to take on an extra challenge during your Leiden Master programme?

Master Honours Education

Are you a curious and motivated master’s student? The Honours Academy of Leiden University offers various kinds of extracurricular education, ranging from long-running programmes to short-term courses. 

Leiden Leadership Programme

Are you interested in a leadership challenge? Join the Leiden Leadership Programme (LLP). This one-year programme will equip you with the leadership knowledge, insights and skills you need to increase your societal impact. You further your personal development through trainings, seminars and a practical assignment within an organisation, in which you learn to cooperate intensively with other professionals. With the LLP, you earn 15 EC in addition to your regular master's degree.

Master Honours Classes & Challenges

Would you like to further develop your academic skills and societal awareness? Join one of our Master Honours Classes & Challenges. In a small-scale, interdisciplinary course, you will tackle a complex issue for society or for a specific partner organisation. You will learn about the latest scientific insights concerning the topic and cooperate in a practical setting, together with students from many different backgrounds. There are Master Honours Classes on offer for 5 or 10 EC. 

EMPA Network Exchange

Leiden University is part of the European Masters in Public Administration (EMPA) Network. The EMPA Network is a consortium of leading European universities in the field of public administration and policy. During an extra, third semester in the fall or spring, students of the Master Public Administration can take courses at one of these qualified partner universities. If the exchange is successful, the student will receive the EMPA certificate. For more information on the application deadline and selection procedure, please contact the international exchange coordinators at the International Office FGGA.

Career prospects

With a degree in Public Administration, you are well prepared for a career in the public sector, but also the private and non-profit sector. Opportunities include becoming a policymaker, policy advisor, (project) manager, consultant and lobbyist.

Gonçalo Veiga da Silva

Alumnus, Trainee at the European Commission

Gonçalo Veiga da Silva

'I acknowledged the importance of also being empowered with a better understanding of economics and skills of economic reasoning. The MPA specialisation in economics and governance was the opportunity to develop those skills and knowledge, with an additional advantage: not only I would expand my knowledge on economics, as I would also be studying how public administrations work.'

    I always had a strong sentiment about public service. When I finished my bachelor´s in law, I felt I had developed a good picture of how the World works and how society is regulated and their different fields ´operate`. Simultaneously, however, I did recognize that if I wanted to deliver a positive change to the World in a future professional career, some steps were still to be taken. In this context, I acknowledged the importance of also being empowered with a better understanding of economics and skills of economic reasoning. The MPA specialisation in economics and governance was the opportunity to develop those skills and knowledge, with an additional advantage: not only I would expand my knowledge on economics, as I would also be studying how public administrations work.     The combination between courses on economics and public administration is the greatest advantage of this Master, and definitely what makes it unique. On the one hand, we are being taught public policy and administration theory. On the other hand, we are developing skills in a central field of the governance of our societies: economics. I believe this complementarity has the potential to empower future public servants, politicians and people motivated about public affairs with the capacity to not only understand the environment in which they will work, but also to contribute for better public policies.     In fact, I feel I am applying myself some of the skills I developed in this Master. In my traineeship in the European Commission, I am constantly performing tasks that require me to be able to understand and analyse economic data and research. I also feel that on discussions on different policies` design, implementation, and evaluation I can devote a critical look to what is under consideration and reflect myself on the consequences of a given decision or intervention. Moreover, I sharpened my ability to read the policy cycles and the political phenomena inherent to the work of the Commission. Lastly and even before starting my traineeship, the Master gave me the opportunity to devote a Master`s thesis to the economic impact of the EU`s cohesion policy. This not only provided me the space to deep my expertise on the field I am currently working at, as it also forced me to develop very important skills for my career, including the ability to conduct economic research, apply econometric models and use statistical software.     I would recommend this programme to all those interested to devote a career to public service and/or affairs. The Master is particularly useful for those that aim at being competent in a very relevant field of the governance of our societies – economics -, but who also want to be prepared to understand the environment in which public policies are born and shaped – administrations/organizations.

Julia Wysocka

Alumnus, Pilot Succes Specialist at FeedbackFruits

Julia Wysocka

'I vividly recall the specialisation course Leadership in Organisations during which I learnt how to conduct behavioural analysis of a leader. The course entailed working with a group on delivering leadership recommendations for a public manager and was focused on applying academic literature to a real case.'

I have chosen this programme as the specialisation appealed to me - I looked for a master's degree that will equip me with knowledge on the topics of management that goes beyond business or focus on private corporations. When choosing a master's programme I paid attention to the course design and the way classes are conducted. I enjoy working with others and engaging with the content in a non-traditional way, hence I asked myself - are most of the courses interactive and involve peer work? Is there ample attention put into practical knowledge? This course ticked them all so it was an easy choice for me. 

A big asset of this specialisation was a rather small number of students in comparison to other specialisations. I was very lucky to be able to connect with my fellow peers during a/synchronous group work, meeting after class to work on a project or brainstorm in breakout rooms. When having 100 students online you never feel that the teacher is treating you individually and you might feel intimidated to speak up or ask questions. The seminars and workshops in smaller groups (10-15) opened a door for feeling acknowledged and comfortable to share your thoughts and doubts. It also helped make the connections and oftentimes resulted in great in-class debates that were continued long after classes were finished.

I vividly recall the specialisation course Leadership and Organisational Behaviour during which I learnt how to conduct behavioural analysis of a leader. The course entailed working with a group on delivering a recommendation letter for a public manager and was focused on applying academic literature to a real case. During that course, I had the pleasure to interview a public servant working in a Dutch public organisation, giving insights into how organisations work and what challenges people in high positions are facing. 

Oftentimes I am using the skills I learned during my elective. I wouldn't know that writing a systematic paper would be that useful in daily life, yet we have learned very valuable skills of extracting relevant information from a long research paper together with several reading techniques or searching for information. Additionally, my thesis capstone allows me to dive deep into statistics. You have the freedom to choose if you are conducting qualitative or quantitative research hence if you want to learn a new set of skills, this programme will allow you to do so. And most importantly - I have learnt what I like and where my interest does not lie, which is incredibly useful and valuable to know when joining the job market. 

I would recommend it to students who seek a high peace programme and opt for interactive work whilst learning about how management work in an international environment. In my experience, I have been equipped with valuable feedback on my work, I became more sensitive to the challenges of public managers and I acquire an interest in topics I didn't know about before. Additionally, the professors always made sure that we not only write our papers and pass the course but also that we enjoy the time spent during the seminars. If the above resonates with you, this programme is a great fit for you.   

Babette Kolen

Alumnus, Research Intern at the Clingendael Institute and former Schuman Trainee

Babette Kolen

' I aspired to become a policymaker who is able to tackle national and global challenges. To this end, I wanted to know more about policymaking, decision-making processes and implementation in multi-level governance systems.'

I chose to study Public Administration, and specifically the IEG track, because I aspired to become a policymaker who is able to tackle national and global challenges. To this end, I wanted to know more about policymaking, decision-making processes and implementation in multi-level governance systems. I felt that the IEG track could offer me that knowledge through its curriculum and due to its location in the administrative heart of the Netherlands. Moreover, I knew from first-hand experience how high the quality of the studies at Leiden University are, because I had done my Bachelor at Leiden University as well. This was an extra incentive for me to choose the MPA IEG.

What sets IEG apart from the other studies is that it is built upon the analysis of the political-administrative context and the organizational dimension. With an emphasis on how policymaking occurs in multi-level systems and in an international environment, IEG distinguishes itself from other study programmes such as international relations or EU studies. I would recommend this programme, because it offers a high quality of education and the opportunity to meet and learn from people all over the world. 

I learned to write policy papers for and essays about various international challenges, in which I not only take into account the involvement of different actors with varying interests, but also the deeper layer of multiple political and societal issues on the global level. Moreover, apart from the theoretical knowledge that I gained through IEG, it strengthened my ability to think analytically, critically and creatively. In addition, the MPA IEG also prepares students for the labour market by focusing both on individual and group assignments, through which students learn to work both independently as well as in a team consisting of people with various national backgrounds and ideas. All of this helped me with receiving traineeship positions at the European Parliament and Clingendael. 

Acquired skills and competences

After completing the programme, you will have a solid foundation in research and policymaking. You are able to analyse complex issues, approach them from multiple perspectives and tackle them with effective policy, services and leadership. Depending on your choice of specialisation, you will have developed a unique skills set tailored to a specific domain within public administration. The combination of being an academic policy researcher and a specialist in economic policy, (inter-)national governance or public management allows you to be employable in a wide variety of positions and still distinguish yourself on the labour market.

Career

The programme prepares you for a career where policy and process meets strategy and leadership. You can respond to societal and organisational challenges, and develop and implement solutions in cross-sectoral and multilevel playing fields. This means that you can become anything from a policymaker in the (semi-)governmental institutions to consultant or lobbyist at the intersection of the public, private and/or non-profit sector – and more.

Orientation Year for Highly Educated Persons

If you are a non-EU recent graduate of Leiden University, you can apply for a residence permit under the ‘orientation year highly educated persons’ scheme. This allows you to spend a period of up to twelve months in the Netherlands looking for and undertaking employment. During your orientation year, you have free access to the labour market and do not need a work permit. For more information, see the Holland Alumni website.

Employment

Alumni that have completed the programme end up in a wide variety of jobs and organisations. Although the majority of the alumni end up in the public sector, a significant part works in consultancy, financial, legal and other business services or pursue a PhD.

Did you know that:

•    the most popular positions that alumni hold are policy adviser, project manager and consultant?
•    60% of alumni found a job within 3 months after graduation and that it takes alumni approximately 5 months on average?
•    more than half of alumni landed a permanent contract for their first relevant job after graduation?

Career preparation

Leiden University offers you several services related to career orientation and job application skills.

Leiden University Career Zone

The Leiden University Career Zone is an online portal that combines useful information and tools to help Leiden University students and alumni with career preparation and planning. It includes:
•    Career Route planner: plan your route through your studies
•    Leiden University Job Portal: find relevant vacancies
•    Alumni Mentor network: get in touch with 650 alumni

Career Service FGGA

The Faculty Governance and Global Affairs has its own Career Service. The Career Service offers support if you have questions about your career, personal profile, labour market or job applications. They organise skills workshops, career events, sessions with a career counsellor and CV, cover letter and LinkedIn checks. 

Career Preparation MPA

The Career Preparation MPA programma equips students with the knowledge, skills and tools to make a good head start on the labour market, in the Netherlands or abroad. The programme is organised largely online to enable students to follow the (sub-)modules independently at their own pace and time. When they have completed the programme, they are able to position themselves in the labour market and target their dream job(s) effectively.

Internships

Internships give you the opportunity to learn more about a job, organisation or sector. You can choose to do an internship during or after you complete the Master of Public Administration. For more information, please visit this website. Please consult the study advisers to learn more about the possibilities.

Admission and Application

Find out how to apply for Public Administration at Leiden University by following our step-by step guide.

Step-by step guide

This guide clearly explains the steps you need to take to apply, and the subsequent admission process.

Questions?

If you have any questions about admissions and enrolment, please use the online contact form for the Student Affairs Front Office, using ‘Admission request’ as the subject. If you have any questions about the programme itself, please contact the study adviser for the programme.
 

MSc. Public Administration: How to apply via Studielink?

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Admission requirements

To be eligible for MSc. Public Administration at Leiden University, you must meet the following admission requirements.

Required Qualifications

You are eligible for admission to the MSc. Public Administration if you have obtained:

1) a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Political Science, Public Management, Public Economics or a similar program closely related to Public Administration from a research university (WO) and can show competence in the methodology of social science research as evidenced by prior course work, or  

2) a Bachelor’s degree from a research university (WO) in another field, provided that you have completed the minor ‘Public Administration: Multi-Level Governance’ or the minor ‘Bestuurskunde: Openbaar Bestuur, Beleid en Management’ at Leiden University, and can show competence in the methodology of social science research as evidenced by prior course work.

If you have a Bachelor's degree from a research university (WO) in another field (for example Cultural Anthropology, Pedagogical Sciences, Law, and Public Health), or if you have a Bachelor's degree from a university of applied sciences (HBO) in a relevant field, such as Public Administration or European Studies, you may be admitted to the pre-master's programme. After successfully completing the pre-master's programme, you will be eligible for admission to the MSc. Public Administration.

Please visit the pre-master’s webpage for more information about the possibilities and admission requirements of the pre-master’s programme.

You must be proficient in English if you want to be admitted to the MSc. Public Administration.  You can find the exact language requirements for the MSc. Public Administration below. Please note that the language requirements differ for the cohorts start in academic year 2022 - 2023 and 2023 - 2024.

English Proficiency for cohort 2023 - 2024

 

Intake September 2023 

Intake February 2024 

IELTS 6.5

TOEFL 90

IELTS 6.5

TOEFL 90

  • IELTS: Where each separate constituent score must be at least 6.0
  • TOEFL: Where each separate constituent score must be at least 20.

Exemptions

You do not have to provide proof of English proficiency if you have:

  • an International Baccalaureate diploma (or other with English A);
  • a diploma of secondary or higher education completed in the US, the United Kingdom, Ireland, New Zealand, Australia or Canada (with the exception of French-taught education in Canada);
  • a pre-university education (VWO) diploma;
  • a diploma of a Bachelor program completed at a Dutch research university or a Dutch university of applied sciences.

Please check out English language proficiency page for detailed information on the English qualifications and other exam criteria, as well as the procedure on how to submit your exam results.

>> Go to the next step: Check the application deadlines

Application deadlines

Now that you are aware of the admission requirements of the Master Public Administration, it's time to check the application deadlines.

Application deadlines

  • If you need a visa or residence permit, you must apply for admission before 1 AprilThe same deadline applies to students who already have a Dutch residence permit for study purposes and need to extend it.
  • If you do not need a visa or residence permit, you must apply for admission before 15 May.
  • If you need a visa or residence permit, you must apply for admission before 15 October.
  • If you do not need a visa or residence permit, you must apply for admission before 15 November.

Apply early!

If you do not have a Dutch diploma that grants direct admission or you need to meet additional admission criteria, you’ll have to complete a two-part application procedure:

You must submit your application via Leiden University’s application system (uSis), before the deadlines mentioned above. So don’t delay; if you haven’t registered in Studielink and activated your uSis account in time to apply by the deadline, you’ll miss out!

Other deadlines

Leiden University reserves a limited number of rooms each year for international students. However, as the number of housing requests always greatly exceeds the number of rooms available, we strongly recommend that you also look into other housing options at the same time. Read more about how and when to arrange housing. If you want to request accommodation via Leiden University, submit both your application for admission and your housing request well before the deadlines! Accommodation is offered on a first-come first-served basis and is not guaranteed. You don’t have to await admission before requesting housing.

If you want to apply for a scholarship, grant or loan, please bear in mind that different deadlines apply, and these deadlines can often be earlier. Deadlines vary per scholarship. Visit the scholarship website for more details.

>> Go to the next step: Collect the required documents

Required documents

When you apply for admission, you'll be asked to submit several documents.

Note: If you have a Dutch diploma that grants direct admission, you will generally not be asked to submit additional documents.

 

Required application documents

You’ll need to submit the following documents:

Please upload a copy of the page(s) in your passport containing your personal details and photograph. If you are from the EU/EEA, you can submit a copy of your identity card instead. Please upload copies of both sides.

If you are a non-EU/EEA national already living in the Netherlands, upload copies of both sides of your Dutch residence permit.

Your CV (curriculum vitae) must be written in English and should contain your basic personal data, as well as a clear overview of your educational and professional history to date.

You can apply for admission before receiving the results of your English language test. However, a sufficient result will then be a condition of your eventual admission. Of course, if you already have your English language test results, you can upload them directly.

  • Digital copies of diplomas and transcripts are initially required. Once you have been admitted, we will inform you how to submit certified copies.
  • The documents must be in the original language. If they are not in English, Dutch, German or French, they must be accompanied by official translations into one of these languages.
  • If you have not yet completed your current programme, state your expected graduation date and submit copies of all transcripts obtained to date plus a list of subjects still to be completed.

>> Go to the next step: Step 4: Start your application

Application procedure

The application procedure is broken down into three parts.

Part 1. Application in Studielink

All students applying for a degree programme at Leiden University must start the application process in Studielink, the national online registration system for students wishing to follow a degree programme at a Dutch university. Studielink is open for applications from 1 October in the year preceding the academic year in which you wish to start.

MSc. Public Administration: How to apply via Studielink?

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1. Go to Studielink and enter your details according to the instructions provided. For this step you will need:

  • a copy of your valid passport or European ID card, or
  • if you are a Dutch resident, your DigiD

Be aware! If you wish to apply for a specialisation of a master's programme: first select the master’s programme in Studielink, then select the specialisation for which you wish to apply in Step 4 (Institutional Questions) in Studielink.

2. Within two days you will receive:

  • an email with information on the next steps you'll need to take;
  • your university ULCN student account details (unless, of course, you already have a ULCN account)
  • the link to Leiden University’s online application portal (uSis)

After receiving your ULCN student account details, log into Leiden University’s online application portal (uSis), using the link provided. Here you can view the status of your application, which will be one of two possibilities.

1. You can be directly admitted
If your (Dutch) diploma grants you direct admission, Leiden University's online application portal (uSis) will let you know. The portal provides an overview of what you have to do to complete your application, for example arranging housing, scholarships, applying for a visa/residence permit and insurances. Please follow the instructions carefully and proceed to step 3 Student registration.

2. You cannot be directly admitted: additional action is required
If you do not have a (Dutch) diploma that grants you direct admission, we will require additional documents to allow us to decide about your application. The online application portal (uSis) will tell you this and explain how to do so. See also Part 2: Admission to Leiden University.

Note that: If you have completed the bachelor’s programme in Public Administration at Leiden University, you can directly register for the programme through Studielink (you will need to select your specialisation as part of the application process).

Part 2. Admission to Leiden University

If you cannot be directly admitted, you must apply for admission via Leiden University’s online application portal (uSis). Please follow all steps below. 

In our online application portal (uSis) you can finalise your application by uploading the necessary documents and answering a few questions. This portal provides an overview of what you need to do to complete your admission application. Please follow the instructions carefully and make sure to include all the items that are asked for. We strongly recommend that you complete your application well in advance of the application deadline.

All applicants with an international degree must pay a non-refundable €100 application fee, which entitles you to apply for up to three programmes/specialisations in the same academic year. We cannot start processing your application until we receive this application fee, so please pay it as soon as possible. The online application system explains how you can pay it.

Can I be exempted from paying the application fee?
You do not have to pay the application fee if:

  • You are following, or have completed, a bachelor’s degree at a Dutch university (of applied sciences). 
  • You have previously registered as an exchange, bachelor’s, master’s or pre-master’s student at Leiden University.
  • You have previously been admitted to the same degree programme at Leiden University, but you decided to postpone your studies. This does not apply if you are applying for a different study programme or specialisation.
  • You have refugee status in the Netherlands (with a residence permit for asylum).

Exemptions cannot be granted for any other reasons.

After you have submitted your application, the online application portal (uSis) will, if applicable, ask you if you want to apply for student housing, a visa/residence permit or a scholarship. Be sure to make a careful note of the relevant deadlines for these options.  

After receiving your application fee payment (if applicable), the Admissions Office will check whether all the necessary documents have been uploaded and they will inform you by email whether any further items are required. The Board of Admissions of the faculty will then:

  • decide whether you meet the admission requirements for the programme; 
  • strive to issue a decision on your completed application within four to six weeks of the University receiving it.

Once a decision has been reached you will be informed by email. You can view your admission status in the online application portal (uSis).

There are three possible outcomes:

  1. You are admitted
    You have met all conditions for admission.
  2. You are conditionally admitted
    You will be admitted, provided that you meet certain conditions. These conditions will be specified in the online application portal (uSis).
  3. You are not admitted

The reason(s) for non-admission will be clearly stated in the online application portal (uSis). If you are informed that you have been (conditionally) admitted, you will have to take a number of additional steps.

If you are (conditionally) admitted, the Admissions Office will ask you to confirm whether you will join the study programme. You can do so in the online application portal (uSis).

1.    Go to ‘Application study programme’ in the online application portal (uSis).
2.    Open the ‘Confirm’ screen. Here you will see three options:

  • Yes, I want to study at Leiden University.
  • No, I no longer wish to study at Leiden University and hereby withdraw my application.
  • Maybe later; I do not wish to start this semester/academic year. I would like to receive further instructions by email.

The sooner the better
Confirm attendance as soon as possible, to avoid missing other important deadlines and information about your study programme.

Changing your mind
You can still change your mind if necessary, either in uSis or by contacting the Admissions Office master team.  

Deadline final decision 
Do you need a student visa or residence permit? You can only request one after confirming attendance. So make sure to confirm attendance before the visa/residence permit deadline

If you don’t need a visa or residence permit, the latest deadline for confirming attendance is before the start date of your study programme.

Note that: If you have a bachelor’s degree from a different institution or university, you will need to submit a request for admission through Studielink and subsequently through the uSis online application system uSis.

Part 3. Student registration

If you’ve been (conditionally) admitted, follow these steps to register as a student at Leiden University:

Check in the online application portal (uSis) whether you need to submit any documents to meet the conditions of your admission. Instructions on how to do so will be provided in uSis.

Arrange the payment of your tuition fee before the official start date of your programme. You will receive instructions and information on the available payment methods by email.

If you are an international student, go to the Prepare your stay page of our website for information about the practical matters you should take care of before and upon arrival. These include, for example, arranging housing, scholarships, applying for a visa/residence permit and insurances.

About to graduate?

Interested in our Master’s programme, but not graduated yet? You are welcome to apply before having actually graduated. When applying before graduation please mention your (expected) graduation date and submit all transcripts obtained to date. Please do bear in mind that if you are admitted, this will be a conditional admission until we have received your diploma and final transcripts. Check the application deadlines!

>> Go to the next step. Step 5: Pay your tuition fees

Tuition Fees

The amount of tuition fee you have to pay depends on a number of factors, such as your nationality and your previous Dutch higher-education qualifications.

The tuition fees for the academic year 2024-2025 are:

The tuition fees for the academic year 2023-2024 are:

More information about tuition fees

The tuition fee for this programme is €2,530 for the academic year 2024-2025 (statutory fee).
The tuition fee for this programme is €2,314 for the academic year 2023-2024 (statutory fee).

This tuition fee applies if this is your first master’s programme and you are a national of one of the following countries:

Austria

Latvia

Belgium

Liechtenstein

Bulgaria

Lithuania

Croatia

Luxembourg

Cyprus

Malta

Czech Republic

Norway

Denmark

Poland

Estonia

Portugal

Finland

Romania

France

Slovakia

Germany

Slovenia

Greece

Spain

Hungary

Suriname

Iceland

Sweden

Ireland

Switzerland

Italy

 


The fee applies for both full-time and part-time study.

The tuition fee for this programme is €20,900 for the academic year 2024-2025 (institutional tuition fee). 
The tuition fee for this programme is €19,300 for the academic year 2023-2024 (institutional tuition fee).

If you are not a national of an EEA country, Suriname or Switzerland, generally speaking you will have to pay an institutional tuition fee. This fee applies for both full-time and part-time study. 

However, if, on the basis of your Dutch residence permit, you are eligible for student finance from the Dutch education agency (DUO) you are entitled to pay the statutory tuition fee. Information on qualifying residence permits can be found in the DUO nationality chart.

Please note! If you will be studying at Leiden University via a cooperation agreement, the fees quoted in the agreement will apply.

Only applicable to EU/EEA, Swiss and Surinamese nationals.

The tuition fee for this programme is €16,300 for the academic year 2024-2025 (institutional tuition fee). 
The tuition fee for this programme is €15,400 for the academic year 2023-2024 (institutional tuition fee).

If you are following a second Dutch master’s programme you will generally have to pay an institutional tuition fee that is higher than the statutory tuition fee. Some exceptions apply.

Consult the tuition fee flowchart for second master’s programmes to find out how much tuition fee you will have to pay.​​​​​

Less than 45 EC

If you are going to follow a pre-master's or conversion programme after completing a bachelor’s programme, and if the programme is less than 45 ECs, you will have to pay €42 per study credit (EC).

45 EC or more

For programmes of more than 45 ECs you will have to pay the statutory tuition fee. If the pre-master's or conversion programme is more than 60 ECs – and therefore longer than one year - or if you are going to follow courses that are not part of your conversion programme, you will have to pay the institutional tuition fee for the programme in question (see second study programme). These fees apply to students of all nationalities. 

Scholarships, grants and loans

Leiden University offers a wide range of scholarships for students from specific regions of the world, or for specific programmes. Leiden University also offers the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS), a programme specifically designed for non-EU/EEA students enrolling in a master’s programme. Find out more about scholarships, grants, loans and deadlines

If you are an EU/EEA or Swiss national and under 30, you may be eligible for a loan from the Dutch government to cover your tuition fees.

>> Go to the next step. Step 6: Prepare for your studies

Prepare for your studies

You’ve been accepted! Leiden University looks forward to welcoming you as a new student. Your next step is to prepare for your studies. Below you can find some tips to help you get a head start.

For international students

If you are an international student, a wealth of information can be found on the ‘Prepare your stay’ page of our website. This includes information about visas, housing, financial matters, what to arrange upon arrival, and much more.

For Dutch students

  • The ‘student website’ page on Leiden University’s student website contains information about practical aspects, introduction weeks and student associations. It’s also a handy source of study-related information and advice.
  • For detailed information about courses, schedules and reading materials, check out the Prospectus. 

Sign up for the introduction week in Leiden (OWL) or The Hague (HOP)It’s the best way to get acquainted with student life and the student cities of Leiden and The Hague. 

Your student card is your proof of registration as a student of Leiden University. You can find your digital student card in the Leiden University app three days after your student registration is finalised. Read more about your student card here

As soon as you receive notification that your student registration has been finalised you should apply for a Leiden University ID card, or LU-Card. It also serves as your library card, print & copy card and access pass. Read more about applying for an LU-card here.  

Pre- Master's Programme

The pre-master’s programme helps students remove deficiencies to meet the admission requirements to the master’s programmes of the Institute of Public Administration.

Applicants who are not directly admissible to the master’s programme might be admissible to the pre-master’s programme (see admission requirements). If they complete the pre-master’s programme successfully, they are admissible to the master’s programme.

Facts about the pre - master's programme

•    The pre-master programme is offered twice per academic year: in block 2 (end of October - January) and block 4 (end of March - June).   
•    The start date you choose in Studielink corresponds to the start date on the admission decision. If you are referred to the pre-master’s programme, you can only start in the semester you selected. We cannot issue a new decision for an earlier start date. 
•    The number of credits to obtain is 15.0 ECTS.
•    The pre-master's programme is a full-time programme. We therefore expect participants to be available for forty hours per week.
•    The pre-master programme must be successfully completed within two semesters to be admitted to the master’s programme.
•    The pre-master’s programme cannot be followed at the same time as the corresponding master’s programme.
•    You will not receive a certificate or bachelor’s diploma in Public Administration after successfully completing the pre-master’s courses. You can request a transcript with the Educational Service Centre.

Admission and Application

Check out the Admission and Application page of the pre-master's programme.

Pre-Master's Courses

More information on the Pre-Master's Programme can be found in the E-Prospectus. For specific questions or extra information you can contact the studyadvisors.

Admission and Application

If you are not eligible for the master's programme Public Administration you may be admitted to the pre-master. Find out if you are eligible for the pre-master and how to apply below.

Diploma requirements

Holders of one of the following degrees may be admitted to the bridging programme, provided that they meet the language requirements as described under the general admission criteria of the master’s programme Public Administration.

  • Candidates with a Bachelor’s diploma with at least 25 EC in Public Administration relevant courses;
  • And results from previous education that give sufficient confidence that the person concerned can successfully complete the Pre-master’s and the Master’s programme. A certified grade list from the completed Bachelor’s programme that demonstrates an unrounded weighted average grade of at least 7.0 used as is the criterion for sufficient confidence.

In exceptional circumstances, the Board of Admissions can admit persons to the programme who do not meet the above mentioned requirements if a substantial and relevant work experience can clearly demonstrate the person’s capability to successfully complete the premaster’s and master’s program. A resume and explication demonstrating the relevance of the work experience for the programme will be the basis of the decision

You can find the application deadlines on the general admission and application - admission deadlines page here.

For the required documents please refer to the general admission and application - required documents page here.

Please note that: In addition to the required documents, all applicants to the Pre-master's Programme need to fill in and upload this Registration form to indicate the Pre-master's programme of their choice. 

Please note that: in addition to the general required documents, applicants to the pre-master's programme of Public Administration also need to send in their resume (C.V.) and explication letter if they do not meet the requirement of an unrounded weighted average grade of at least 7.0.

Please only apply for either the master’s programme or the pre-master based on the admission requirements. The admissions committee will inform you in case:

  • You have applied for the master but you cannot be admitted directly. You will still get the chance to apply for the pre-masters.
  • You have applied for the pre-master but you are considered to be directly admitted to the masters.

For further information on the application procedure, please check the general application - application procedure page here

Please refer to the general admission and application - tuition fees page here.

Please refer to the general admission and application - prepare for your studies page here.

Student life

The Hague is the international city of peace and justice, home to many international organisations, embassies and multinational corporations but also a fun student city filled with music, cafes, museums and the most popular beach in the Netherlands!

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Myriam Zöllner

Student International and European Governance

Myriam Zöllner

'The Hague is an ideal city to study Public Administration. Whether that is the various ministries, Dutch government, or the vast variety of NGOs and international organizations in the area, there are many opportunities for internships and applying your knowledge'

The Hague 

There are countless reasons for choosing the MSc in Public Administration at Leiden, but if I were to pick my top reasons I would firstly note that The Hague is an ideal city to study Public Administration. Whether that is the various ministries, Dutch government, or the vast variety of NGOs and international organizations in the area, there are many opportunities for internships and applying your knowledge.

International and European Governance

Another reason is that the MSc-PA offers three specializations to meet students’ interests. I chose to specialize in International and European Governance as I was particularly eager to learn about how migration policies emerge on supranational levels. Ultimately, this program provides a strong foundation for conceptual thinking, and modules that involve applying practical skills necessary for my future career prospects. Furthermore, the program manages to keep class-sizes small, but very internationally diverse which is essential to learning decision-making skills in our ever-growing multicultural policy settings.

Unparalleled opportunities

Finally, the program organizes events such as day trips to the European Commission in Brussels, meetings with the German ambassador, and a ‘Young Professionals meeting’ to network with previous alumni. Ultimately, being a part of the Public Administration program has unparalleled networking opportunities, and I recommend this program to anyone who seeks an academically and internationally-focused environment to policymaking.

Study Association

The study association B.I.L. (abbreviation for Bestuurskundige Interfacultaire vereniging Leiden) organises activities, like ‘speed dates’ with companies and organisations, several networking events and company visits during the year (e.g. International Criminal Court) and a regular schedule of alumni dinners.. Participating in these activitities can give you contacts and insights into f your future possibilities as an alumnus or alumna.

VR Tour The Hague

Curious to know how studying in The Hague looks like? Take our VR tour through The Hague!

Studying the Master Public Administration at Leiden University in The Hague means you have full access to all the services and facilities Leiden University offers in both Leiden and The Hague. Two great student cities just 10 minutes away by train! Close to the Netherlands’ most popular beaches, The Hague is a thriving hub of expat culture and European politics and foreign affairs - with a great transportation system. More information on studying in The Hague can be found here.

VR Tour The Hague

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Leiden University- alumna Franciska will show you around our Campus in The Hague and visit the hotspots that make the city of The Hague an attractive place to study, work and live. If you don't have VR-glasses, just move your mouse around the screen and discover The Hague.

Information activities

Want to know more about the Master in Public Administration, and experience what it’s like to study in The Hague? There are a number of activities that can help you choose your study. Get to know us through our online and in-person events for prospective students!

Two speakers at the open day
Two speakers at the open day

Are you thinking about joining this Master's programme, and want to determine if it will be the right fit for you? Below, you can browse the events that we have coming up, and sign up to experience Leiden University and the programme for yourself. Alternatively, take a look at the Master Talks videos to find out more about the programme or check out our virtual campus tours!

Upcoming events

Master Talks: Programme videos

On the Master Talks: programme videos platform you can find videos for each master’s programme. This includes a video which gives a short introduction to the programme. You can also find the recording of the Master's Online Open Days of 5-6 October and watch the programme presentation on the platform. 

Get to know the campus

Check out our virtual campus tours, filmed in 360 degrees – by dragging the video, you can look around at the surroundings yourself. Below is the video recorded at Campus The Hague - Wijnhaven, where most of your lectures will take place; you can also view other 360 campus tours of the various university faculties here

360 Campus tour - Wijnhaven

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Chat with a student

Do you have a question about our Master's programme in Public Administration? Would you like to hear more about the differences between the specialisations: Economics and Governance, Public Management and Leadership, and International and European Governance? Or on studying at Leiden University at our Campus in The Hague? Ask one of our students directly!

Contact

Still have questions about the Master Public Administration? Please don’t hesitate to contact us! Our details are here.

Do you have questions about studying at Leiden University?
Do you want to know more about one or more programmes or about our information activities? The StudyLine is a source of information for students and is staffed by students. You can contact them by mail or by phone on +31 (0)71 527 11 11  on working days between 9.00 am and 17.00 pm. 

Do you have questions on your admission and application?
For questions about your admission and application, you can contact the Student Information Centre. You can contact them by telephone on +31 (0)71 527 80 11 (daily between 11:00 am and 16:00 pm) or ask your question in the online contact form.

Do you have any questions about the Master Public Administration?

If you want to more about this programme or the specialisations, please contact the study advisers of the Institute of Public Administration. You can contact them by email or telephone (see right side for contact details), or make an appointment. Please check the website for cancelled telephone consultation hours.

If you want to attend a class or visit other information activities, please check the Information activities or contact one of the student ambassadors via Chat with a student.