FGGA's Cyberweek: education in cybersecurity and digitalisation
During Cyberweek, held from 17 to 24 October, the Faculty of Governance and Global Affairs (FGGA) showcased its research and teaching on cybersecurity, digital developments, and their societal impacts.
Throughout the week, the faculty highlighted the latest insights and academic programmes on cybersecurity and digital innovation. On social media, staff and students shared their experiences and knowledge about the rapidly evolving digital world on social media. Below is an overview of the discussions, featuring the diverse academic programmes within the faculty.
Cybersecurity Governance (CSM): A master’s programme for the future
Ahmed Al-Yousefi, a student ambassador for the English-taught MSc Crisis and Security Management (CSM) with a specialisation in Cybersecurity Governance, shares why he chose this one-year master’s programme. He emphasises the specialised pathways and growing importance of cybersecurity in today’s world. 'The field is becoming increasingly important across various sectors,' says Ahmed. 'This programme equips students with the skills to make a significant impact.'
The master’s programme focuses on the governance aspects of cybersecurity, with experienced lecturers offering insights into changing regulations. Practical assignments, such as group projects and debates, enrich the learning experience. Ahmed aims to contribute to global security challenges and is considering roles such as Cybersecurity Consultant or Policy Advisor to help make the world a safer place.
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New bachelor’s programme in Cybersecurity & Cybercrime: A multidisciplinary response to digital threats
Leiden University’s new Bachelor in Cybersecurity & Cybercrime addresses the increasing threat of cybercrime. Elina van ’t Zand, a lecturer at the Institute for Criminal Law & Criminology and a member of the programme board, stresses the urgency: 'Cybercrime continues to rise, unlike traditional forms of crime. We need to address this with this programme.'
The programme, which begins in September 2025, combines legal, criminological, and technical knowledge to prepare students for a wide range of cyber challenges. According to programme board member Daan Weggemans from the Institute for Security & Global Affairs, it’s essential to 'train professionals who understand the language of technology, law, and governance.'
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Digitalisation in governance and policy: innovation in the public sector
Bram Klievink shares his insights on the Digitalisation specialisation within the master’s programme in Public Sector Management. He explains why this specialisation is essential in today’s world: 'The public sector is rapidly digitalising. This brings opportunities but also new challenges. That’s why we offer the ‘Digitalisation in Governance and Policy’ specialisation, where we explore the impact of digitalisation on public organisations and services.'
This specialisation is particularly interesting for students who want to delve into how technology influences the interaction between government and citizens. Klievink highlights three core areas: 'Students learn how digital innovations can contribute to improved public services and develop a critical view on the ethical and societal aspects of digitalisation.'
With a well-informed perspective on digitalisation, graduates can take on roles such as Digital Policy Advisor, Digital Transformation Project Manager, or e-Government Consultant. The public sector urgently needs professionals who can bridge the gap between governance and technology.
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Public administration and digitalisation: The future of public governance
Second-year bachelor’s student Nynke Marije Attema shares why she chose the Public Administration specialisation in Digitalisation, Governance, and Society. 'In an era where digital innovations play an increasingly significant role in our daily lives, it’s valuable to understand how these developments influence both government policy and society,' she says.
The programme offers students the chance to analyse current case studies and formulate strategies for societal issues, where theory and practice go hand in hand.
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AI and healthcare: a step forward with BabyChecker
Leiden University College alumna Enya Séguin discusses her work with the start-up BabyChecker, which uses AI to improve healthcare access in remote areas. 'We ensure our AI systems are designed with ethical considerations at the forefront,' she explains. She emphasises the importance of collaboration with medical professionals and avoiding biases in technology. Her interest in digital health began during her bachelor’s degree, where she had the opportunity to combine her knowledge of international development and public health.
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Executive master in Cybersecurity: for the working professional
Tommy van Steen shares his insights on the executive master’s programme in Cybersecurity, designed to meet the growing demand for expertise in digital security. This two-year English-taught programme, offered by Leiden University in collaboration with The Hague University of Applied Sciences and Delft University of Technology, addresses the increasing complexity of cyber threats. 'It is essential for professionals to be well-prepared to offer effective and sustainable solutions,' says Van Steen.
This programme’s multidisciplinary approach is unique. Students learn not only about technological aspects but also about the legal, governance, economic, and psychological facets of digital security. 'Regardless of your background, you’ll work from an integrated approach, enabling you to develop robust solutions to cyber risks,' he adds.
The programme targets working professionals with some knowledge and experience in cybersecurity and requires a minimum of an HBO or WO qualification, along with a few years of work experience. The combination of one day on-site and one day of home study per week makes it possible to balance work and study. After completion, you’ll be equipped to contribute to solutions for complex cyber issues from multiple perspectives.
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Cyber threats in the bachelor Security Studies: a broad perspective on digital threats
In the second-year course on Cyber Threats within the Bachelor’s in Security Studies, students are prepared to tackle the complex challenges of the digital world. Tommy van Steen, Assistant Professor in Cybersecurity Governance, and student ambassador Gaia Sterre Mirotti share their insights on this important course.
Gaia highlights the value of the course: 'The diverse topics, such as cybercrime and hacktivism, offer an extensive insight into cyberspace issues. The interdisciplinary approach connects technology, politics, and psychology. It became clear to me that solutions often go beyond technical fixes; they require an understanding of governance and society.'
Tommy adds that this course not only addresses digital threats but also explores the broader context of internet governance and international politics. 'Through real-life case studies and interactive assignments, students develop skills to analyse and tackle social issues related to digital technologies.'
This course prepares students not only to understand today’s threats but also to develop effective strategies for the future.
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During Cyberweek, it was evident that the Faculty of Governance and Global Affairs (FGGA) at Leiden University, based in The Hague, is addressing the changing digital world with its education and research. By educating students and professionals through a multidisciplinary approach, the faculty contributes to the development of effective solutions to the complex challenges of cyberspace. These programmes offer not only theoretical knowledge but also practical skills, essential for preparing for a digital future.
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