Global Ethnography (MSc)
Career preparation
Leiden University offers several services to help you prepare for the jobmarket. But where you end up depends on the chosen study direction, your own skills and interests.
Three-month ethnographic research project
One of the highlights of doing your masters here is the opportunity to execute your own three-month research project. By following the Global Ethnography specialisation you will graduate as researcher skilled in conducting qualitative ethnographic research individually and independently, adding your own insights into what needs to be researched to any teamwork or organisation.
Furthermore, class and group sessions with your cohort masters students will enable you to develop lasting relationships and an expanded network of colleagues for future collaborations.
Alumna Paula Kovač
Do you have tips for incoming master's students?
''If I could go back, I’d remind myself that it’s okay not to have everything figured out. The job market is complex—at once brimming with possibilities and fiercely competitive. Here’s what I’ve learned...''
● Looking for jobs is not a race. It’s perfectly fine to take on a side job while searching for something that speaks to your heart.
● Research the job market early to understand where your skills fit and where opportunities lie.
● Anthropology isn’t confined to academia. The skills you develop—ethnography, project management, critical thinking—are invaluable across industries. Learn to tell your story.
● Build your network! Professors, colleagues, friends—they are stars who will light your way if you ask, and connect you to amazing opportunities.
● Finally, relax and remember what drives you - and that the job never defines. Work with intention, and don’t settle for less than what inspires you!
At the Career Services counsellors will give you advice and information on planning your career, whether you have just started your master’s study or have already graduated. Each of Leiden’s seven faculties has its own career services department, with specific expertise and resources related to the faculty’s programmes.
In addition, as a master’s student you have access to our web-based resources, which include career step plans, job seeking strategies and self-assessment tools. The Career Services desk also offers a range of relevant workshops. If you prefer a personalised approach, you can make an appointment for an individual counselling session with your departmental career counsellor.
Specifically, you are welcome at the Career Services for advice and information on:
- What are the possibilities with my Master’s degree?
- Which jobs suit my profile?
- Workshops and events: Which job possibilities are there and how to apply?
- Career tests
- Internships and job vacancies
- CV and LinkedIn check
You can also find career information and advice on the website of the Career Services.
The Leiden University Career Zone is an online career portal that helps you with your preparation for the labour market. You will find information on:
- Knowing yourself (tests, self analysis)
- Exploring the labour market (i.e. jobs and branches)
- Developing your skills (application skills, work & life skills)
- Finding vacancies (Jobportal)
- Career Route Planner
- Workshops & Events
- Career Services
Leiden University’s alumni hold positions in a vast range of sectors, all over the world. They are therefore good resources for graduates who are just starting out on the job market. Through the Leiden Alumni Mentor Network you can contact Leiden alumni online and ask them for advice. For more information, go to the Mentor Network website.
The Cultural Anthropology and Development Sociology study association Itiwana regularly organises activities so that you can explore the labour market in fields relating to your study programme. Examples include labour market conferences, social drinks, and speed-dating sessions with companies.
Employers are interested in graduates who have developed their talents in a variety of areas. So it’s a good idea to work on your personal development and on CV-building right from the start of your degree programme.
Take a look at the Career Route Planner what you could do in addition to completing your studies successfully.