Thesis and papers
When writing a thesis or paper you must make good use of the insights you have gained during your lectures and studies so far. You should also refer to relevant literature and carry out your own research on the topic.
One of the most important things you will learn during an academic study programme is how to write an interesting piece of work that meets the criteria of scientific quality, whilst also being accesible to the broader public.
Refer to our Study skills pages for more information on academic writing skills.
Faculty regulations
The thesis regulations are outlined in appendices of the Faculty’s Course and Examination Regulations. For both papers as well as thesis the rules on plagiarism and academic integrity apply. This means that you must also adhere to the Faculty’s rules regarding the use of GenAI in assessment.
Request for appointing thesis supervisor
The study programme ensures that each student is assigned a supervisor for their bachelor's or master’s thesis. The Board of Examiners is responsible for appointing the supervisor as an examiner for the thesis. Every study programme has its own procedure for appointing supervisors. Please consult the course description of the bachelor’s or master’s thesis in the Prospectus.
Need help with your writing assignment? Come to the Writing Lab!
Want to discuss your academic writing assignment (thesis, paper or other) with a trained peer tutor? Turn to the Writing Lab!
The Writing Lab also organises interactive, hands-on (and free!) workshops and thesis events every semester to help you improve your academic writing skills and/or make writing your thesis a success!
For more information or a free appointment, see: Writing Lab.
Thesis assessment
Your bachelor's or master's thesis will be assessed according to Faculty standards.
Thesis Database
Leiden University Repository
Theses written since July 2011 can be found in the Leiden University Repository.
MA theses
Research MA theses
Collection of theses written between 1962 and 2009
These theses are present in the University Library, open stock ('open magazijn').
Ancient History
Medieval History
Dutch History
Economic History
Social History
General History
Medieval and Early Modern European History
History of Migrants and Cities in a Changing World
History of European Expansion and Globalisation
History of Political Culture and National Identity
Thesis prizes
For an overview of thesis prizes for History students, see: