BSc Security Studies

Security challenges, such as terrorism and cybercrime, rank among the most pressing issues of our time. In the English-taught bachelor programme Security Studies you study 21st century security challenges and learn to devise strategic solutions to a complex world.

Why study Security Studies?

Terrorism, cybercrime, natural disasters and other issues affect the security and safety of millions each day. In Security Studies you learn to unravel security challenges by focusing on the political, historical and societal context in which they arise, as well as the effect of governance, institutions, and the media. You gain an academic perspective, and the ability to think critically about complex issues, while taking all relevant factors of specific security challenges into account.

In this bachelor programme you will also study various crises and crisis management. Crises are unforeseen situations which require impactful decisions in times of stress and chaos. How do governments and private actors work together to prevent, response to, and recover from crises such as natural disasters and pandemics? For example, in the course Case study: Fukushima, students will look into the Fukushima nuclear disaster that happened in 2011 in Japan. In the course Vital interests we will further discuss the SARS epidemic.

Why Security Studies at Leiden University?

Studying Security Studies at Leiden University, means:

• Being part of an international community;
• Learning an interdisciplinary approach to security and safety challenges;
• A programme which is research-led and practice-oriented;
• A yhree-step teaching philosophy:  Explore, Understand  and  Do ;
• A combination of lectures and skills labs; where academic and professional skills are trained in small groups;
• You will have classes in the centre of The Hague: the international City of Peace, Justice and Security.

Is this the programme for you?

• Do you read the international news with interest, seeking the interaction between global (security) events and their effect upon people, nations and organisations?
• Are you an engaged and curious critical thinker?
• Are you stimulated to find solutions to the crucial security and safety issues that arise every day?
• Do you want to learn from leading academics and security professionals?

Then the bachelor programme Security Studies is for you!

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.