School Psychology Leiden University

Overview

What does this master programme entail?

Leiden University is the only Dutch university that offers a full master’s specialisation in School Psychology. A unique feature of our programme is the mix of a focus on supporting all school pupils to do well academically and emotionally as well as a focus on youths with special needs (e.g., behavior or learning difficulties).

This School Psychology programme from Leiden University responds to and prepares our students for a number of recent changes in the care for children and adolescents. In many countries, schools are increasingly being held responsible for an optimal development of all students, including those with special needs. In the Netherlands, new legislation concerning Inclusive Education (‘Wet op Passend Onderwijs’) and Youth Care (‘Jeugdwet’) has been passed. It is to be expected that schools (primary and secondary) will consult or hire more specialists, such as school psychologists, in order to meet the criteria for inclusive education, for teacher training, and for developing school policy.

Career prospects

A master in Psychology at Leiden University combines theoretical knowledge with academic and professional skills, making you an attractive candidate for many employers.

Skills after graduation

You have unique knowledge and skills to empower children and adolescents to succeed academically, but also on a social, emotional and behavioral level. You will know how to support academic and socio-emotional development in typically developing youths as well as in youths who experience emotional difficulties or learning problems. You have learned how to create a positive learning context for all students as well as how to diagnose and treat academic and emotional problems within the school context. You will be an expert in working closely with families, teachers, and school teams to support the students’ ability to learn and the teachers ability to teach, by creating a supportive learning environment.