Politics, Culture and National Identities, 1789 to the Present (MA)

A top-ranked 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 Politics, Culture and National Identities at Leiden University?

You will be part of a master's programme that takes a broad, comparative approach to the study of the political and national identities of a number of European countries and the United States spanning the period from 1789 until the present. The programme takes an international perspective by looking at the relations between different  countries in the Western World instead of the more limited national approaches. Your understanding of how national identities and political views have evolved will enable you to make a valuable contribution to the debates that continue to dominate both public and academic forums, including discussions about the EU, democracy and populism.

Learn more about the study programme

Cultural transfer

You will examine the evolution of the political culture and national identities of countries such as the Netherlands, Great Britain, Germany, Russia or the United States – and how these countries influenced each other through 'cultural transfer': the adoption of examples from other countries and the inspiration they engender. You will explore how ‘cultural transfer’ can be applied to the political domain, for instance with regard to social movements, parties, parliaments and the use of national symbols and myths.

Admission and Application

Do you want to find out if you are eligible for this Master's programme?

Check the entry requirements

History degree

Politics, Culture and National Identities, 1789 to the Present at Leiden University is an accredited degree programme of History. After successful completion of this programme, you will receive a legally accredited master’s degree in History and the title Master of Arts (MA).

In which sector do students find jobs?

• 25 Government and semi-government
• 13 Education
• 13 Media and journalism
• 13 Financial institutions
• 6 IT
• 6 Non profit
• 6 Consultancy
• 6 Information management
• 6 Publishing and the book industry
• 6 Other

The graph above is based on alumni data from the MA Culture, Politics and National Identities 2016-2020

Find out more about the career prospects

Global Order in Historical Perspective

We also offer the specialisation Global Order in Historical Perspective (part of the MA International Relations). This programme focuses on examining the historical processes behind the evolution of the global order. Learn more about this programme.

Chat with a student

Do you have a question about student life in Leiden, studying at Leiden University, or do you want more information about the History master's programme? Chat with a current student for answers to your questions!