15 years Leiden University College

Leiden University College (LUC), an institute of Leiden University in The Hague – the international city of peace, justice, and security – offers the English-taught Bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences: Global Challenges since 2010. Inspired by the American university college model, LUC combines small-scale, interdisciplinary education to prepare students for innovative solutions to complex global issues with a direct impact on The Hague, the Netherlands, and beyond.

Global challenges, local impact

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Anniversary updates

15 inspiring examples of local impact

To kick off our anniversary year, we have shared fifteen stories showcasing how LUC students, researchers, and alumni contribute to societal challenges in the Netherlands.

Leiden University College celebrates 15 years of ‘global challenges, local impact’

'With the changes in the world over the past 15 years, our Global Challenges approach is more relevant now than it was in 2010. Our alumni confirm this time and again.'

Did you know we're also celebrating 450 years of Leiden University?

Ahead of the times? We’ve been that for 450 years. As the oldest university in the Netherlands, we’ve sailed through the centuries with our sights fixed firmly on the society of the future.

Discover Leiden University College

What is Liberal Arts and Sciences?

Liberal Arts and Sciences combines various disciplines to teach students to think broadly and critically. This versatile concept is gaining increasing popularity in the Netherlands.

Interdisciplinary research

Research at LUC focuses on global challenges, with themes such as Peace, Diversity, Prosperity, and Sustainability. It connects academic knowledge with societal impact.

Engagement with society

LUC encourages social engagement through projects, internships, volunteer work, and social activism. This way, we prepare students to make a meaningful contribution to society.

Unique location in The Hague

LUC is located next to the Dutch House of Representatives and collaborates with institutions such as the International Criminal Court. Alumni contribute to NGOs, ministries, and international policy-making.

Own student apartments

With our own 400 private studio apartments for students and a diverse community, LUC offers an inspiring environment that promotes collaboration and connection.

Innovative teaching methods

LUC stands for innovation in education, with a focus on pedagogy, curriculum design, and student well-being. This approach prepares students for the future.

Top-Rated Programme

Liberal Arts and Sciences: Global Challenges received the 'Top-Rated Programme' quality seal for the twelfth time in 2025, with a score of 89 out of 100.

Engaged alumni community

More than 1,500 alumni have successfully completed the programme. Evolucio, our international alumni network, connects graduates worldwide.

LUC Fund

The LUC Fund provides financial support to talented students in need, allowing them to focus entirely on their studies without financial worries.