BA Philosophy: Global and Comparative Perspectives

This Philosophy: Global and Comparative Perspectives bachelor's programme is unique in that it offers comparative perspectives from around the world that will enable you to be part of the next generation of thinkers, someone studying and shaping philosophy for a globalised 21st century.

Study Philosophy in a global context

Philosophy challenges you to question prejudices and to be open to different perspectives. This philosophy bachelor programme is unique in that it offers a cross-cultural dimension of comparative philosophy in which the world’s thought traditions mutually inform and enrich one another. Studying the philosophies of India, East Asia, and the Arab world alongside those of the West will give you a global context for thought and make you the kind of professional that today’s global world is simply crying out for.

Why study Philosophy at Leiden University?

• Leiden is the only Dutch university, and  one of only a few in the world , to offer a philosophy programme that combines Western perspectives with those of India, East Asia, Africa, and the Arab world.
• The programme is taught in an  internationally acclaimed  academic environment.
• You will have the opportunity to  tailor  the programme to your interests.
• We work with  small tutorial groups  that stimulate in-depth discussion and excellent skills training and mentoring by senior students and dedicated lecturers.
• You will have access to the University’s world-famous  Asian Library , which features several unique collections.
• Within the programme, there is the possibility to  study abroad  for some time or to do an (international) internship.

Is this the programme for you?

If you can answer “yes” to the following questions, we can safely say that the Philosophy: Global and Comparative Perspectives programme is for you.

• Do you enjoy discussing current issues in science and society?
• Would you like to learn more about the history of the concepts we use to frame those issues and about alternative concepts used in other cultures?
• Do you enjoy high levels of abstraction?
• Do you often feel that current debates fail to address the right questions?
• Are you willing to challenge assumptions?

Academic fields

Leiden has faculties in the fields of:

• Archaeology
• Governance and Global Affairs
• Humanities
• Medicine
• Law
• Science
• Social and Behavioural Sciences

Student support

International student advisers

The international student advisers are a good place to go when you need assistance during your stay in the Netherlands. Students in both locations of Leiden University have access to these specialised advisers. In many cases they will be able to provide the information you need, or will refer you to the relevant services. You can consult the advisers on a variety of matters, ranging from financial concerns, settling down issues, academic issues and health insurance to dealing with external housing agents or finding a family doctor.

Student counsellors

We have a number of specialised student counsellors available. They can help in legal and financial matters, but can also assist you in developing study-related skills. The skills package that is offered involves individual counselling and workshops designed to support you in your academic performance. Topics covered include thesis writing, time management, stress management and planning. Additionally, our counsellors are available to help resolve study and personal problems, should this be needed.

Departmental study advisers and coordinators

Each department has its own study advisers/coordinators who can answer questions about matters that are related to the study programme of your choice. You can consult the study adviser/coordinator on issues such as timetables, exam grades, choice of subjects and application for graduation.