Elective credits
In addition to compulsory elements, most degree programmes also have elective credits. These are credits you can earn in a variety of ways, for example by taking elective courses, studying abroad or doing a minor.
How many elective credits do I have?
The number of elective credits varies from programme to programme. Take a look at the programme-specific information in the Prospectus for exact details.
Elective courses
You can earn elective credits by putting together your own set of elective courses, selected from those offered by Leiden University or another institute of higher education. Make sure to request permission from your study programme’s Board of Examiners before doing so.
Going abroad
You can also earn elective credits by studying or doing an internship abroad for a few months. Read more on our study abroad webpages or contact your international exchange coordinator or study adviser to find out about the options within your study programme.
Minor
You can earn elective credits by doing a minor. A minor consists of a cohesive set of courses on one theme which can help you to broaden your horizons and develop new knowledge, insight and skills. Learn more about minors.
Internship
Electives credits can also be earned through internships or research projects, either in the Netherlands or abroad. Ask your internship or research coordinator for more information.
Permission from the board of examiners
If you choose to follow a complete minor in Leiden, Delft or Rotterdam you do not need to request advance permission. For all other ways of earning your elective credits you must always request permission from your programme’s board of examiners. More information can be found in the Prospectus or your study programme’s Course and Examination Regulations (OER).
Elective Credits
In the third year of the BSc Security Studies programme, you have the freedom to tailor your studies, enabling you to choose whether you would like to prepare for a specialized master’s programme through a minor or electives, study abroad, or do an internship. In year 3 of the BSc Security Studies, there is an elective space worth of 30 ECTS in the first semester. You can use this elective space to choose from the following options:
Entry requirements
In order to enroll in your elective space of choice, it is very important that you have obtained all 60 ECTS of year one by the time of your application. Additional requirements might apply for each of the elective space options. More information about additional requirements can be found in the specific chapters above, by clicking on the links. Do keep in mind that you will need a GPA of 7.0 if you would like to study abroad. If you would like to do an internship to obtain credits, you can only do this in the elective space during the first semester.
If you will not obtain 60 ECTS before the start of year 3, or, if you would like to study abroad and you foresee problems with your GPA, please contact the Study Advisors at your earliest convenience.
Elective Credits Approval
For most options you choose, you will need approval from the Board of Examiners of the BSc Security Studies. The form to be used for submission of your request will be available as soon as possible.