Overview

The Psychology MSc programme at Leiden University distinguishes itself by the fact that students are not only taught about the functioning of psychological processes, but that they also learn to connect these processes to behavioural consequences, with the aim of understanding self-regulation and behavioural control. This means that you will develop knowledge of psychology as a science, and that you will also learn to apply this knowledge to practical problems and to develop effective interventions. The teaching programme is based on state-of-the art scientific research and maintains a strong emphasis on the acquisition of academic and research skills. Completion of the MSc degree prepares students for subsequent academic degrees, including a PhD.

Objectives of the master’s programme in Psychology

• The objective of the master’s programme in Psychology is to equip students with advanced training in research methods and professional skills that prepare them both for a career involving psychological research as well as for the application of scientific knowledge and methods in various professional settings. 

• Training is provided in all relevant skills, including reviewing the relevant literature, applying theoretical knowledge to analyse practical problems, developing hypotheses and writing research proposals, designing and carrying out empirical studies, designing and evaluating the effectiveness of interventions, conducting advanced statistical analyses, and presenting results and recommendations.