Law (LL.M.)

Moritz Jesse

Jean Monnet Professor European Migration Law

"We need lawyers who are well-informed about the historical, sociological and political background of migration. Today’s diverse societies need legal professionals who can think outside of the legal box and are comfortable in a multidisciplinary environment."

Why choose Governance of Migration and Diversity (Legal)?

Global migration and asylum mean that more and more people live outside their country of birth or nationality. Europe, once a continent of emigration, has become an important country of destination. This raises important legal questions on how to address the challenges posed by migration and increasing diversity and to maximize the chances for the benefit of all. To do so successfully, this programme provides you with a unique multi-disciplinary component, to understand the law in its broader - political, societal and historical – context. Students with the appropriate background will still obtain civiel effect [access to the legal bar] in the Netherlands upon following our program.

• You will gain in-depth knowledge of the legal framework regulating migration, asylum, and non-discrimination at international and European level.
• You will study the law in a truly multi-disciplinary programme leading to a recognised LL.M. title.
• You will follow courses offered by leading experts from three LDE universities (Leiden, Delft, Erasmus) in five academic disciplines (law, history, sociology, political sciences, and development studies).
• You will study in an international environment, with students from different disciplines, laying the foundation for your professional network.
• You will study current issues with great societal relevance.
• You will obtain the knowledge and skills for a successful (international) career in the field of migration and diversity.
• You will train your legal presentation and writing skills in dedicated courses.

Is the Governance of Migration and Diversity (Legal) master's the right fit for you?

The GMD-Legal programme offers a unique opportunity to explore migration law within its broader political, social, and historical context. You’ll earn a legal degree (LL.M.) while gaining a multidisciplinary perspective on migration and diversity governance, preparing you for both traditional legal careers and international roles.

Key questions you will explore:

• What are the (un)intended effects of the law on politics and society?
• How have politics, society, and history influenced the law?
• How can the law improve migration regulation, including asylum?
• How can the law promote inclusion and non-discrimination?
• How do international, EU, and national regulations on migration and diversity interact?
• What are the limits of the law in regulating migration and diversity?

This master's provides you with the tools to understand these issues and develop a well-rounded, impactful career in migration and diversity law.