Spend a Summer Studying in Leiden

Webster University is offering new thematic Study Abroad sessions at three international campuses: Geneva, Leiden and Vienna.

Take an In-Depth Dive Into Specialized Study with Hands-On Experiences

Two back-to-back sessions — Summer 1 (June 8 - July 3) and Summer 2 (July 6 - July 31) — will be offered at each of these vibrant locations. Each four-week session will host thematic programs comprised of a three-credit core course and a one-credit experiential learning course.

Leiden campus with group of students in front

A Student-Centered and Intellectually Vibrant Community

Located only 30 minutes from Amsterdam, Leiden is a city with a rich past and a bright future, filled with students, bicycles, canals and charming buildings. As the oldest and largest university town in the Netherlands, Leiden has earned the right to be called the “Key to Discovery.”

Webster Leiden sits on a picturesque canal in the historic city center, where a multitude of shops, bakeries, historic sites and museums can be found. Leiden’s numerous cozy cafes are great places to catch up on some assigned reading or simply enjoy a leisurely lunch. After dark, Leiden’s taverns, theaters and music venues spring to life.

Study Biotechnology, Business or International Relations in Summer 2026 at Webster

Delve into the Dutch economy through studying some of its most important export products, learn about issues surrounding substance abuse and addiction from a psychological perspective, experience Dutch art through a historical lens or research innovations in gene therapies in the Netherlands. Each session will focus on a specific theme and offer a one-credit experiential learning-focused course to enhance the theme.

  • Summer Session 1 offers course themes in Sustainable Entrepreneurship and Biotechnology in Leiden.
  • Summer Session 2 offers a course theme in International Trials.
A view of many colorful bicycles parked along a canal in Leiden.

Study for four or eight weeks in Leiden or pair four weeks in Leiden with four weeks in Vienna or Geneva.

Summer 1: June 8-July 3

Sustainable Entrepreneurship

This program explores the principles and practices of entrepreneurship through the lens of sustainability. Students will learn how to identify, design and implement business solutions that create economic value while addressing social and environmental challenges. The course focuses on innovation and ethical decision-making as essential tools for building ventures that contribute to a more sustainable future. Students have the opportunities to attend field trips and workshops to gain insights on how Dutch entrepreneurs create value via sustainable practices.

Course Fee: $130

Webster students on bikes in front of windmill

Analyzes current management issues in terms of historical background, present status and possible solutions. Utilizes case studies in discussing each issue.

This course examines the foundations of moral reasoning and the analysis of ethical issues that arise in a wide range of contemporary business practices, both domestically and globally. This course is designed to inform and stimulate thinking on ethical issues, corporate social responsibility and professional challenges encountered in business. Ethics is not meant to be a stand-alone topic, but should be integrated into all aspects of business. The course relates to issues in organizational behavior and management, strategy, marketing, accounting, operations and international business.

Students will brew their own beer at a Dutch brewery, learn about the craft of cheese production at a family farm, explore biodiversity initiatives at the oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands, and engage in workshops to build a sustainable mindset and innovative solutions.

Biotechnology in Leiden

A group of students row a boat in the canal.

This program introduces the topic of biotechnology with a specific emphasis on work being done on sustainability in the Netherlands, which is a top location for biotech innovation. The Leiden BioSciences Park is a vibrant hub for biotechnology and life sciences, offering a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research. Led by Dr. Lindsey Applegate, and by analyzing primary research articles, you will gain valuable insights into the methodologies and innovations driving this field. It is also a great chance to develop your skills in communicating complex scientific concepts, which is crucial for collaboration and public understanding.

Meeting scientists and exploring the research environment will enhance your learning experience, providing a firsthand look at how research translates into real-world applications.

Course Fee: $350

In addition, training will be provided for earning Webster micro credentials that can prepare students for entry-level positions in the biotechnology industry. These microcredentials are based on the skills recommended by the Bioscience Core Skills Institute (BCSI) and include (1) Numeracy, (2) Safety: Hazard Assessment and (3) Small Volume Metrology.

Keeping up with current scientific knowledge requires reading the latest scientific publications. This journal club course will focus on gene therapy research and will explore recent progress made in this field. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of the principles, techniques and context of the subject while developing oral communication skills.

Externship opportunities in biotechnology in Leiden provide valuable real-world experience for undergraduate science majors. Visits to local Dutch biotechnology companies will give students an international perspective on the industry, help develop cross-cultural communication skills and allow exploration of scientific advances in global biotechnology. Career-building activities will be incorporated, including resume building, interview skill development and networking.

Visits will be made to biotechnology companies in the Leiden BioSciences Park, with opportunities to meet and learn from Dutch scientists. Areas of focus will be gene therapies. Students will also visit museums of interest, such as the Naturalis Biodiversity Center and the Science Museum.

Summer 2: July 6-31

International Trials: An International and Informed View

This course will utilize the unique function of The Hague as a center of international trials by preparing students with an understanding of the basics of international law and the facts and issues that underpin the trials and related institutions before they observe such trials and court proceedings on location. The procedural and substantive law that controls trials in the United States and in international law will be compared.

Course Fee: $65

A group of students pose for a photo in Leiden.

This course will utilize the unique function of The Hague as a center of international trials by preparing students with an understanding of the basics of international law and the facts and issues that underpin the trials and related institutions before they observe such trials and court proceedings on location. The procedural and substantive law that controls trials in the United States and in international law will be compared. Because this course depends heavily on the specific trial being conducted at the time of the course, it is impossible to present definite class agendas.

May be repeated for credit if content differs.

Visits may include the International Criminal Court (ICC), International Court of Justice (ICJ), Mechanism for International Criminal Tribunals or Kosovo Specialist Chambers.

Program Cost Details

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Mallory Neville
Student Spotlight on Webster Leiden

“Studying abroad was worth it for the memories alone, but I also made new friends, learned a lot about people and cultures, and was able to experience life on a whole new level.”

Mallory Neville
Mallory Neville

BS in Business Administration and Management, '20

Webster University | WINS

Webster WINS Partner Schools

Is your school a Webster WINS partner? If so, you may be eligible for a scholarship up to $500 toward your airfare. Check to see if your school is already a partner!

 

Other Questions?

Email worldview@webster.edu or call 314-968-6988.