Practical Information
Political Science, global affairs and the dynamics of international cooperation and conflict
The international, English-taught 3-year programme of IRO is part of Leiden University’s Political Science curriculum and is based in The Hague, the city in which politics and international relations converge.
In this specialised bachelor’s programme you'll address transboundary issues from a social sciences point of view. IRO has a strong focus on diplomacy and current world problems, with particular attention paid to the role of major powers such as China, Russia, the USA and the EU, and organisations such as the IMF, NATO, UN, and the World Bank.
More information about the following topics can be found in the tabs in this Prospectus:
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Career Preparation
Please read below about the following topics:
PROGRAMME INFORMATION
Academic Career Support
The team of study advisers knows about all aspects of your study programme, and therefore you can go to them when you need, advise or support. If you feel your study progress is experiencing some obstacles, it is important to contact your study adviser as soon as possible. He or she can advise you on the best course of action and, if required, support you in dealing with academic delay.
However, it is also good to remember that the study advisers are not just there to help you when you are experiencing (academic, personal or medical) challenges, but also to discuss with you all the different choices you have (for example in your elective space) while you are studying. Consult the Brightspace Page “Academic Career Support IRO” for further details on your study planning during the 3 years of your programme.
Study Advisers
Nynke Heegstra – IRO students with surnames starting with A to G
Ian Lau – IRO students with surnames starting with H to O
Ester Blom – IRO students with surnames starting with P to Z
mailto:Studyadvisers.iro@fsw.leidenuniv.nl
How do I stay on track with the deadlines, rules and regulations for IRO?
The Study Advisers are the first point of contact if you have questions about the IRO programme, your study planning, or study progress. These are your options to acquire your information:
Information on study programme, planning and study progress can be accessed 24/7 on the study advising Brightspace page: Brightspace: Academic Career Support IRO
Quick questions about your studies: In Semester 2, Study Advisers are available on Tuesdays between 13:00 and 13:30 at the desk opposite classroom 2.01.
If necessary, you can ask your question via the online contact form or schedule a meeting to discuss your personal situation.
Academic Career Support Sessions: sessions during which IRO peers share their experiences; study advisers and other representatives of the university will explain about different topics that are relevant for you in each phase of your study. All sessions will be posted on Brightspace Academic Career Support IRO under Calendar.
IRO Year 1
IROrientation Day – first plenary meeting before classes start: Thursday 31 August 2023 11:00-15:30 in Wijnhaven building (Turfmarkt 99 The Hague)
Block 1 | The Do’s and Don’ts in IRO | 12 September 13:15-14:00 # 2.01 WH
Block 1 | Personal Development – Learning My Way | 30 October 13:15-15:00 # 2.02 WH
Block 2 | Keeping up in the first semester | 6 November 13:15-14:30 # 2.02 WH
Block 2 | Personal Development- Learning My Way focus sessions | 13 & 14 November 11:15-13:00 or 13:15-15:00 (1 session per student)
Block 3 | Making choices for your IRO future | mid-February 2024
Block 4 | Reflect and flash forward | 2nd week April 2024
IRO Year 2
Intro session Semester 1: Mon 4 Sept 17:15 (lecture Research Methods).
Other sessions tba, based on deadlines for choices in your programme.
IRO Year 3
Sessions tba, based on deadlines for choices in your programme.
COURSE AND EXAM REGISTRATION
Course Registration
Both first year students and students re-sitting courses from the first year will be registered for all courses and work groups in semester 1 by the Student Services Centre (OSC – osc@leiden.edu).
As of semester 2 (block 3 & 4), first year students can register themselves via the student portal/ MyStudymap.
Second and third year students register for classes themselves in both semesters in uSis. You can find the dates below.
In the week before your classes start, you can find your class schedule (lectures and workgroups) in uSis or in My Timetable. If you need to retake previous courses, your current schedule will be taken into account. Once registered, changing to other work groups is not possible.
Exam Registration
It is mandatory for all students, including first-year bachelor students, to register for each exam and to confirm registration for each exam in MyStudymap. This is possible up to and including 10 calendar days prior to the examination. You cannot take an exam without a valid pre-registration and confirmation in MyStudymap. Carefully read all information about the procedures and deadlines for registering for courses and exams.
Exchange students and external guest students will be registered for all courses and exams of the Political Science programme by the Student Services Centre.
Enrollment in MyStudymap is possible according to this scheme:
Block 1: 11 July 2023, 13.00h until 5 days before the first meeting
Block 2: 11 July 2023, 13.00h until 5 days before the first meeting
Block 3: 12 December 2023, 13.00h until 5 days before the first meeting
Block 4: 12 December 2023, 13.00h until 5 days before the first meeting
More information on enrollment can be found here.
For transition regulations, please check the Course and Exam Regulations (CER)
COURSE MATERIALS
You can find additional course information and materials (textbooks, articles) in the Prospectus as well as in the Brightspace page of the course. Your instructor will communicate with you in Brightspace via your umail account. Make sure you have access to this account before your classes start.
PLAGIARISM
Plagiarism is a violation of academic integrity that can have serious consequences for the perpetrator. To prevent plagiarism, all your written work is checked via Turnitin. Turnitin is an external tool that has been integrated in Brightspace to assess assignments/papers/etc. and to check for plagiarism. Turnitin provides instructors with the tools to provide specific personalized feedback and check similarity to other papers, bibliographic and online sources and grade assignments.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Note that some elements in the IRO programme require completion of specific courses (Study Abroad, Bachelor Project, Bachelor Seminar in Year 3) or a minimum GPA (Study Abroad, continuation with a Master programme) You can find information about prerequisites in the Course & Examination Regulations.
BOARD OF EXAMINERS
The role of the Board of Examiners is to ensure that study programmes adhere to their Course and Examination Regulations. The Board of Examiners oversees all tests and examinations within the institute and determines whether students have acquired the knowledge and skills required for the awarding of their degree. As a Bachelor student, you will need to request approval for non-Political Science Institute elements in your programme such as your electives, Study Abroad courses, research internship and a minor at different university. If you are planning on taking electives next to your IRO courses you should always contact your Study Adviser to discuss study planning. If you want to have a short overview of for specific situations you would need to seek their
advice, please take a look at their FAQ
The Board of Examiners can be reached via: examencommpol@fsw.leidenuniv.nl
Career Preparation
Career preparation in the BSc Political Science
In pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, we are committed to providing you with not only a comprehensive academic education, but also the necessary tools and skills to thrive in the professional world.
It's important to note that career preparation is a collaborative effort between the university and the student. To make the most of the opportunities provided, you should actively engage in extracurricular activities, seek internships or research opportunities, and take advantage of the career services available to you. By combining your academic achievements with practical experiences and professional networking, you can enhance your employability and/or readiness for a Master’s degree, and position yourself for a successful career in the field of Political Science.
Here are some aspects of career preparation you can expect from the programme:
1. Discipline-specific knowledge and skills
The BSc Political Science programme will equip you with broad knowledge and understanding of different aspects of Political Science and related disciplines, such as economics, history, law, and political philosophy. It will also offer you’re the opportunity to specialize in a subfield of political science in your second and third-year projects, papers, and thesis.
2. Research and Analytical Skills:
You will develop strong research and analytical skills through coursework, seminars, and finally through application via the writing of a thesis and, optionally, an Internship project. These skills are valuable in various career paths, including academia, policy analysis, consulting, and research positions.
3. Transferrable skills
Transferrable skills are abilities and competencies that can be applied across different roles, industries, and contexts. These skills are not specific to a particular job or field, but can be transferred and utilized effectively in various settings. These skills include: research and analytical methods, project-based work, generating diagnostic and solutions, digital skills, collaborative work, oral and written communication, presentation skills, societal awareness, independent learning, resilience. These skills are highly valued by employers and can enhance your adaptability and marketability.
4. Self-reflection
This involves reflecting on your own (study) career (choices), reflecting on your own background, profile and your personal and professional development. Gaining insight into, among other things, your competences and personality, your (work) values and motivations: this involves reflection on what can you do with your knowledge and skills on the labour market.
5. Practical Experience
We recognise the importance of practical experience in enhancing employability. We encourage you to look for research internship opportunities as part of your third year elective programme. Career Services and Brightspace Career Preparation Political Science provide opportunities for internships or collaborations with relevant organisations, allowing you to apply your knowledge in real-world settings. This experience can be instrumental in gaining insights into potential career paths and building a professional network.
6. Networking Opportunities
The Institute of Political Science, and the study association SPIL regularly provide networking events, guest lectures, and conferences that bring together students, alumni, professionals, and experts from the field. Actively participating in these events can help you establish connections and foster relationships that may be beneficial for your career advancement.
7. Study Advice
Your study adviser can assist you on your study choices and strategies to improve your academic performance, also by referring to the right contacts within the university. You can contact studyadvisers.iro@fsw.leidenuniv.nl if you have a question about your programme or if you would like to discuss your personal situation.
8. Career Service
The Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences’ Career Service offers career guidance, including workshops, (faculty) career events, and individual counseling sessions. These resources can assist you in exploring career options, developing job search strategies. Leiden University has a strong Alumni Mentor network, and as a graduate, you can leverage this network to access career opportunities, seek mentorship, and gather insights from professionals who have pursued careers in various sectors related to Political Science.
