LLM Advanced Studies in Law and Digital Technologies Leiden University

How does the digitization and mass distribution of creative work affect intellectual property rights? In what ways can digital technology regulations evolve to better protect individuals and organizations from identity fraud or security breaches?

What does this master's programme entail?

Leiden University’s Master of Laws in Advanced Studies in Law and Digital Technologies explores the law and governance relating to the internet, computers, mobile devices, persuasive technologies, the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), autonomous systems, etc. These digital technologies present unprecedented challenges to the law. They raise questions about their governance (e.g., in relation to the global reach and jurisdiction) and can both promote and threaten long-held fundamental values and rights, such as the right to privacy.

Moreover, they can be effective tools for (cyber)crime, or impede government accountability if not used according to legitimate procedures. While the legal system is challenged by digital technologies, it is also the most powerful tool for regulating them. In this programme you will explore the multi-dimensional relationship between law and digital technologies with academic and professional experts in the field.

Coursework focuses on regulatory theory (internet governance and techno-regulation) and national, European and international law (hard law, soft law and case law), but also on exploring broader ethical, societal challenges of digital technologies and gaining insight into the technology.

Reasons to choose Law and Digital Technologies at Leiden University?

As a student of the Law and Digital Technologies programme, you will benefit from:

1. Multidisciplinary learning: You will develop expertise on the law and governance of the internet and digital technologies, with an emphasis on regulatory theory (internet governance and techno-regulation) as well as national and international law (hard law, soft law and case law).
2. Excellent reputation: Leiden Law School has developed its reputation for excellence by combining a high level of academic teaching with acclaimed and innovative research. This tradition of quality attracts prestigious professors and professionals from all over the world, who teach in a challenging and supportive atmosphere.
3. International environment: In addition to the international focus of the curriculum, the unique mix of students and faculty that represent all continents makes our programme a truly international experience.
4. Extensive networking: You will build a strong professional network through interaction with your fellow students, who are often practicing lawyers from all over the world. You will also build your network during various activities organised by the program. Such activities include a trip to Brussels for the Computer Privacy & Data Protection Conference (CPDP) and other study trips.
5. Study trips: The program organises study trips in high-tech companies, law firms, and/or government institutions. In previous years, such study trips included trips to Bits of Freedom, T-Mobile, European Court of Justice, Considerati, etc.

Is Law and Digital Technologies the right programme for you?

Are you interested in learning more about complex legal and regulatory issues related to the development and convergence of digital technologies? Law and Digital Technologies is a focused and demanding postgraduate programme that will foster your knowledge of this ever-growing field. It is aimed at both legal professionals and top graduates who wish to acquire in-depth knowledge of law and digital technologies from an international and multidisciplinary perspective.

This programme will provide you with cutting-edge knowledge and professional skills to navigate the complex and changeable world of digital technologies. Becoming a graduate of Leiden’s Law and Digital Technologies Advanced Studies programme will provide you with many opportunities for positions in a wide range of national and international organisations.

Our alumni have gone on to careers at:

• international law firms
• tech companies
• the judiciary
• governmental institutions
• NGOs
• academic and research institutions