Law and Digital Technologies (Advanced LL.M.)

Leiden University’s Master of Laws in Advanced Studies in Law and Digital Technologies (L.L.M.) 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 advanced master (LL.M.) you will explore the multi-dimensional relationship between law and digital technologies with academic and professional experts in the field.

Why choose Law and Digital Technologies at Leiden University?

  • Multidisciplinary learning: You will develop expertise on the law and governance of digital technologies, by analysing the national, European and international legislation (hard law, soft law, case law) as well as by exploring broader ethical, societal challenges of digital technologies. 
  • 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.
  • 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.

Career prospects

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

Francien Dechesne
Associate professor

The emergence of digital technologies raises many fundamental and complex legal challenges that professionals and scholars must be able to address in their work. This programme provides you with advanced knowledge and practical skills to find answers in this demanding, international and interdisciplinary environment.

Francien dechesne

Course overview

Semester I 

Regulating Digital Technologies (4 EC)

Internet Governance (3 EC)

Ethics and Digital Technologies (3 EC)

Digital Infrastructure and Markets (5 EC)

Fundamental Rights and Digital Technologies (5 EC)

Practicum Law and Digital Technologies (5 EC) 

Semester II 

Platforms and Law
(5 EC)

Data Protection Law (5 EC)

Cybercrime and Cybersecurity 
(5 EC) 

Law, Robots, and AI (5 EC)

Digital Child Rights
(5 EC)

Master Thesis: Law and Digital Technologies
(10 EC)

Titel: 

Master of Laws 

Language: 

English

City: 

Leiden 

CROHO: 

75116 

Duration: 

1 or 2 years

Mode of study: 

Full-time/part-time 

Start: 

September