Education, Organisation
Update on Master European Politics and Society by the Faculty Board
Over the past period, the Faculty Board (FB) has critically evaluated the master's programme in European Politics and Society. In consultation with the program chair, Joost Augusteijn, the board has considered the content of the programme, costs/benefits and the importance of the programme for the Faculty of Humanities. In light of recent geopolitical changes, the FB now opts for continued participation in this unique two-year international joint programme.
Geopolitical importance
Europe's position has changed radically in a matter of weeks. Precisely in this period, in which the role and position of Europe are being redefined, a master's that studies Europe from a multidisciplinary perspective is of particular importance, the FB concludes. In the programme, Leiden University is collaborating with partner institutions in central and eastern Europe, including the Univerzita Karlova in Prague as the lead institution; collaborations that are more relevant than ever before.
Europe strategy Leiden University
The master EPS also fits within the University's Europe strategy. Recently, the Leiden Europe Hub was established in Brussels. In addition, Leiden has been part of the UNA Europe network for some time, within which a joint bachelor European Studies is being worked on.
Decision: further commitment to EPS
All things considered, the Faculty Board now opts for further commitment to this master's programme in order to make full use of its potential. The FB believes that the programme can be of interest to a larger group of students. Therefore, the programme board will be instructed to work on a benefits strategy with the goal of attracting more students.
In a reaction, programme chairman Joost Augusteijn says he is very pleased with the good news. 'The master EPS is a great programme in which students from both Einside and outside Europe study the continent from many perspectives. In many ways Leiden programmes will have to adapt to a new situation, and we will do so with fresh courage together with our partners in Prague, Barcelona and Krakow,' he commented.
Next steps
We realise that this message does not answer all questions. After all, we know that difficult choices need to be made in order to turn the faculty’s situation around. This is still the case.
The Faculty Board will give further consideration to this challenge in the period ahead. We will continue to engage in discussion with all those concerned and tremendously appreciate everyone’s input and dedication.
With kind regards,
The Faculty Board
Henk te Velde
Jos Schaeken
Saskia Goedhard
Jeroen Touwen
Nova Verkerk