Democracy and Representation (MSc)

Student life

Join study association SPIL

Joining a study association can help you connect with other students, enjoy group activities and generally enrich your time at Leiden University. SPIL is the study association for political science and international relations students at Leiden University. SPIL was founded in 1981 and has since grown to be one of the university’s largest study associations, with more than a thousand members. For a nominal annual membership fee, SPIL offers its members a wide range of benefits.

Academic and social activities

The association organises a large variety of activities and events with both a social and an academic character. Formal activities, such as lectures, excursions and debates are complemented by informal activities, such as movie nights and parties both in Leiden and in The Hague.

Study trips

SPIL also organises visits to foreign countries on study trips, to acquaint members with political systems abroad. These activities and trips are organised by the association’s board and various committees, in which students can take part to acquire and strengthen their professional skills. SPIL is connected with several political science student platforms on both a national (PvP) and international level (IAPSS).

Book discounts

Last, but perhaps not least, SPIL members receive a substantial discount on study books.

› spilplaats.nl/en

Meet SPIL

Leiden: city of discoveries

There is much to discover, see and experience in Leiden. You will find a monumental inner city, full of history. At the same time, Leiden offers up-to-date facilities. When you need a break from studying there are plenty museums, theatres, restaurants and cafés at your disposal.

A university city since 1575, Leiden houses many academic disciplines and students from all over the world. Together, they create a bustling, vivid and international atmosphere. You will fit in, for sure. Leiden will make you feel at home.

Your home base

If you study in a Leiden Political Science master’s programme, the Pieter de la Court building will become your ‘home away from home’. Here you meet your fellow students, attend most of your classes, find a place to study and a beautiful library. Furthermore, there is a cosy café and a restaurant where you can have lunch. The building is situated nearby the Leiden Centraal railway station, at ten minutes walking distance from the heart of Leiden’s historical city centre. From the outside, the building may look not very attractive, but its interior is both pleasant and functional.

Would you like to have a look? You are welcome, (also) through this virtual, three-dimensional tour: