Behavioural Science

The Master's programme in Behavioural Science at Radboud University offers students an in-depth understanding of human behaviour and the scientific methods used to analyze, predict, and influence it. Designed for those interested in psychology, economics, neuroscience, and related fields, this programme provides a multidisciplinary approach to understanding decision-making processes, social interactions, and cognitive functions. Throughout the programme, students will engage with cutting-edge research on behavioural mechanisms, learning how to apply scientific insights to real-world challenges in healthcare, marketing, policy-making, and organizational settings. The curriculum combines theoretical modules with practical skills training, including experimental design, data analysis, and behavioural interventions. Students will have opportunities to collaborate on research projects, gain hands-on experience through internships, and participate in seminars led by leading experts in the field. The programme emphasizes critical thinking, ethical considerations, and the application of behavioural insights to societal issues. By the end of the MSc, graduates will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue careers in academia, industry, consultancies, governmental organizations, or to continue with doctoral studies. The interdisciplinary environment at Radboud University, coupled with its strong focus on empirical research, ensures that students graduate with a comprehensive understanding of Behavioural Science and the ability to contribute innovative solutions to complex behavioural problems.

Theme courses: Behaviour Regulation; Neuroscience of Behaviour; Psychobiology of Behaviour; Socialisation and Education; Interpersonal Relations and Interactions; Behavioural Decision Making; Learning, and Learning Problems; Developmental Psychopathology; Emotion; Dynamics of Complex Systems; Diagnosis and Treatment; Stress and Health Behaviour; Motivation, Influence and Communication; Psychopathology, Prevention and Intervention.

A completed Bachelor's degree in Behavioural Science or related area

In order to get admission to this Master's you will need a completed Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Pedagogy, Educational Science, Biology, Artificial Intelligence, Communication Science or another related discipline. Because this is a selective programme, students with good to excellent grades will have a better chance of being admitted.

Methodological and statistical knowledge

We expect candidates to have basic knowledge of methods and statistics (including, description of univariate distributions (e.g. central tendency, dispersion, graphical representation). Analysis of variance (e.g. t-test and ANOVA), Correlation and multiple Regression) and experience in quantitative research.

Proficiency in English

In order to take part in this programme, you need to have fluency in both written and spoken English. Non-native speakers of English* without a Dutch Bachelor's degree or VWO diploma need one of the following:

• A TOEFL score of ≥600 (paper based) or ≥100(internet based)
• A IELTS score of ≥7.0 (test score of 7 overall with a 6.5 minimum for each test result: listening, reading, writing and speaking)
• Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) or Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) with a mark of C or higher

Motivation letter

In this letter of motivation you should explain why you want to follow this programme and why you think you are suited for it. Attached to this letter should be a resume with photo, list of grades and two reference letters from lecturers. An interview (face-to-face or via Skype) will follow before you are admitted to the programme.

Reference letters

Applicants will need to send in two letters of recommendation by lectures or supervisors (including contact details).

Resume that includes a photo

Please upload your resume in the online application system Osiris as an additional document.

* Applicants are considered to be a native speaker of English if they are from Australia, Canada (with exception of Quebec), Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore, UK, USA or South Africa.

There are various scholarships available for studying at Radboud University. Some of the opportunities are described below. A full list, including detailed information, can be found on our scholarships and grants page at our website. 

Radboud Scholarship Programme

Open to a select number of excellent international students. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,083 in 2019/2020). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Orange Tulip Scholarship

Open to students from Brazil, Mexico, Russia, Indonesia, South-Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, and China. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,083 in 2019/2020). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Fulbright-Radboud Scholarships

Open to excellent American students. The grant will be paid in 12 monthly instalments of 1,050 euros. International travel and the cost of the residence permit will be covered, and an extra allowance of €1150 will be paid on arrival.

Sino-Dutch Bilateral Exchange Scholarship

Open to excellent students from China. Consists of a contribution of € 16,113 towards the total costs of one year of study or research in the Netherlands.

DIKTI-Neso Scholarships

Aimed at lecturers at higher education institutions in Indonesia who wish to pursue a PhD or Master's at a university in the Netherlands. A DIKTI scholarship includes allowances for living expenses, insurance, travel costs, tuition fees and more.

Indonesian Education Scholarship (LPDP)

Open to excellent Indonesian students under the age of 35. Involves a full scholarship.

Holland Scholarship Programme

Open to excellent students from Canada, America, India and Turkey. Scholarship consists of 5,000 euros payed at the start of study.

Dutch Student Finance

EU/EEA students and Swiss students under 30 years of age are eligible if they are working at least 56 hours per month in the Netherlands, or have been living in the Netherlands for five years or more. Dutch student finance consists of four components: a basic grant, a supplementary grant (depending on the parental income), a student travel product, and a loan.

Behavioral Science at Radboud University is a multidisciplinary program that combines insights from psychology, economics, neuroscience, and sociology to understand human behavior and decision-making processes. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of how individuals and groups behave in various social contexts, and how these behaviors can be influenced or changed. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, offering students specialized courses in areas such as cognitive psychology, social psychology, behavioral economics, and experimental research methods.

Students in this program will have the opportunity to develop strong analytical skills, including data analysis and experimental design, which are essential for conducting research in behavioral science. The program also encourages the development of critical thinking and ethical considerations in research and application. Throughout their studies, students engage in a variety of learning activities, including lectures, seminars, group projects, and empirical research exercises. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in research, policy-making, consultancy, or working within organizations that want to apply behavioral insights to improve outcomes.

Radboud University is known for its research excellence and innovative approach to education in behavioral sciences. The environment fosters collaboration among students and faculty, often involving interdisciplinary projects that address real-world problems. The program benefits from the university's strong connections with industry and research institutes, providing students with opportunities for internships and collaborative research projects.

The program is suitable for students with a keen interest in understanding human behavior and a curiosity about how psychological and social factors influence decision-making, health, and well-being. It equips students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, enabling them to critically analyze human behavior and develop effective interventions or policies based on scientific evidence. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for further academic research or professional roles in government, healthcare, marketing, or non-profit organizations.