Overview

Why choose this Master’s programme?

Students choose the Crime and Criminal Justice MSc programme at Leiden University because they have an affinity with human behaviour and crime and want to learn more to be able to make a contribution in preventing and fighting crime. Criminologists (lawyers and non-lawyers) are employed by organisations such as the police, the Public Prosecution Service, the prison system, the probation service, victim support, consultancy and research agencies, security companies and in the business sector.

Why choose the master’s programme Crime and Criminal Justice at Leiden University?

During the programme a lot of attention is also given to career prospects; for example, there are guest lectures, field trips, and students are encouraged to maintain a portfolio of reflections in regard to their academic advancement throughout the programme. Students carry out an independent and original piece of research, which showcases the skills and knowledge acquired during the Master’s programme. During this process, they benefit from the guidance of staff with expertise in the area of Criminal Justice. Completing an internship is an optional component of the programme.

This master has two specializations:

1. Comparative Criminal Justice (MSc)

This master's programme distinguishes itself by its international comparative perspective, analysing criminal justice systems, legislation and policy. The programme is unique both in its comparative and multidisciplinary focus. Students from all over the world with different backgrounds, such as Criminology, Social Sciences, Law, Political Science and Philosophy, follow this master's programme.

2. Criminology and Security Policy (MSc)

This master's thesis focuses on security problems in society and the development of effective and legitimate policies to address these problems.

In order to be able to answer security questions, the master's programme focuses on criminology, psychology, public administration and law.

Career prospects

• Our graduates end up in law(-related) professions, (international) criminal justice organisations, research, teaching, and roles related to policy-making and policy-advice. 

• Examples of graduate destinations include: the Law Reform Commission of Ireland, the Koninklijke Marechaussee, Eurojust, the Dutch Ministry of Justice and Security, and EY.

Accreditation

Accredited by NVAO, the Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders.