Degree from a Dutch research university
This page outlines the step-by-step process for completing your application to a Master's programme at Utrecht University. Please read this information thoroughly before starting your application.
We welcome applications from all suitably qualified prospective students and aim to recruit students with the very best academic merit, potential and motivation, irrespective of their background. We carefully consider each application on an individual basis, taking into account all the information included in your application package, as specified below.
Competencies
This is a selective Master's. You will be considered for admission to the Master’s programme in International Relations in Historical Perspective if you have a Bachelor’s degree from a Dutch university or foreign equivalent and can demonstrate the following knowledge and skills:
- You are able to interpret and understand complex international historical events and processes based on your knowledge of the history of international relations and your acquaintance with relevant theories in the field. You have demonstrated these competencies in your grades for relevant courses during your Bachelor’s degree.
- You are able to design and undertake historical research in the field of international relations using analytical, methodological, and writing skills acquired during your undergraduate studies. You have demonstrated these skills in relevant research seminars, at an advanced Bachelor’s level, and where applicable, in your undergraduate thesis.
- You are able to demonstrate your interest in and engagement with the history of international relations based on a convincing motivation letter, curriculum vitae, and a 500-word essay in which you offer your informed opinion about an international political event, dilemma, or development of your choice (in English).
- You are able to express yourself in proficient English, as demonstrated by the language quality of your motivation letter and writing sample.
Selection procedure
The Admissions Committee will decide on your application. Based on the documents you submitted, the committee will assess whether you will be able to successfully complete the Master’s programme within the nominal duration.
The committee also takes into account:
- Motivation and talent
- Level of required knowledge and mastery of methods and techniques as demonstrated by previous grades
- General high level of professional and intellectual ability
- Command of the language used in the programme
The MA in International Relations in Historical Perspective admits a maximum of 60 students each year and competition for places in the programme is high. This means that even if you meet the minimum entry requirement, this does not guarantee you an offer of admission.
Previous education
The following Utrecht University Bachelor’s programmes are a good preparation for this Master’s programme:
At Utrecht University
- Geschiedenis/History (e.g. via the International Relations track)
- Taal- en cultuurstudies with a major (hoofdrichting) in International Studies
- Liberal Arts and Sciences with a major (hoofdrichting) in International Studies
UU courses or minors helping you to acquire the requested competencies include:
- Minor in International Relations
- Minor in Conflict Studies
- Advanced BA courses that increase your knowledge of the history of international relations and relevant theories, as well as your analytical and writing skills. These courses might include topics like the EU, the Cold War, the system of states, the post-colonial world, humanitarian intervention, and conflict and order in the Middle East.
At another Dutch research university
- History
- International Relations and International Organization, Groningen
- International Studies, Leiden
- Bachelor’s programmes on specific regions, such as European Studies
- Other Bachelor’s programmes related to (the history of) International Relations
If you are currently enrolled in a different Bachelor’s programme and thinking about applying for this Master’s programme, please contact the Programme Coordinator for more information. By planning your studies carefully and taking the appropriate courses, you may be admissible.
Not sure if you are eligible?
Please check the FAQ or contact the Programme Coordinator with questions about your eligibility.
| Applications open | 1 October |
|---|---|
| Application deadline for scholarship candidates | 1 February |
| Application deadline for Non-EU passport holders | 1 April |
| Application deadline for EU passport holders | 1 April |
All deadlines expire at 23:59 [CET/CEST] on the specified date. You must complete the application process (including submitting your application documents in OSIRIS Online Application and paying the application fee) by this time.
The following documents must be uploaded before the application deadline (depending on your previous education):
Degree from Utrecht University
- Transcript from OSIRIS
- Motivation statement
- Curriculum vitae / resume
- Courses yet to be completed
- Relevant courses
- Writing sample
Degree from another Dutch research university
- Motivation statement
- Curriculum vitae / resume
- Contact details of two referees Please ensure your referees fill in the required form prior to the application deadline.
- Courses yet to be completed
- Diploma or graduation statement
- Relevant courses
- A scan of your transcript (including courses, grades and GPA)
Please make sure the document has a stamp and signature of the institute. - Writing sample
Visit Studielink and complete the registration process. You can find all information on how to use Studielink here. After completing your Studielink application, you will receive login details for OSIRIS Online Application within 2 working days.
Apply via StudielinkAfter submitting your application to Studielink, you will receive an email with login details for OSIRIS Online Application. Here you can upload all required documents, check the status of your application and enter contact details of your referee(s).
After you upload all documents in OSIRIS, the Graduate School will evaluate them. We strive to inform you of our decision within 30 working days after the application deadline.