Research Master's in Child Development and Education

The Research Master's in Child Development and Education at the University of Amsterdam offers an in-depth exploration into the developmental processes and educational practices that influence children from early childhood through adolescence. Designed for students who aspire to become researchers, policymakers, or educational professionals, this two-year program provides a comprehensive curriculum that integrates psychological, social, and educational perspectives on child development. Students will engage with cutting-edge research methods, theoretical frameworks, and practical applications to understand how children grow, learn, and interact in diverse environments.

Throughout the program, students will have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as cognitive development, social-emotional development, language acquisition, or the impact of digital media on children. The curriculum combines core courses with electives, enabling students to tailor their studies according to their research interests and career goals. Emphasis is placed on developing strong research competencies, including experimental design, data analysis, and ethics in research involving children and young people.

The close collaboration with faculty members who are prominent experts in the field ensures a stimulating academic environment that fosters innovative research. The program also encourages critical thinking about current issues in education and child welfare, preparing graduates to contribute effectively to policy development or to pursue further academic research, including doctoral studies. Practical experience is gained through research projects, internships, and seminars that promote a participatory learning approach.

Graduates of the Research Master's in Child Development and Education are well-equipped with the knowledge, skills, and research experience necessary to excel in academic, governmental, or non-profit organizations working to improve educational outcomes and promote healthy child development. With a strong international orientation and a focus on evidence-based practices, the program aims to develop professionals who can contribute meaningfully to the understanding and enhancement of children's lives worldwide.

The Master's programme in Child Development and Education (Research) at the University of Amsterdam is a comprehensive and rigorous academic program designed to prepare students for a career in research focused on child development, education, and related multidisciplinary fields. This programme provides an in-depth understanding of the psychological, social, and cognitive aspects of children's development from early childhood through adolescence. Students will explore various theoretical frameworks and empirical research methods to analyze how children learn, grow, and adapt within diverse educational and social contexts.

The curriculum combines core courses in developmental psychology, educational sciences, and research methodology with specialized electives that allow students to tailor their studies to specific interests such as language development, social-emotional development, inclusive education, and the influence of technology on learning. Emphasis is placed on developing practical research skills, including designing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and interpreting findings within a scientific framework. Throughout the programme, students engage in numerous research projects, often collaborating with academic staff and external organizations, gaining valuable practical experience.

The programme also emphasizes critical thinking and ethical considerations in research involving children and young people. Students are encouraged to reflect on societal and policy implications of their research, preparing them for careers in academia, policy advising, educational consultancy, or similar fields. The programme culminates in an MSc thesis, where students demonstrate their ability to conduct independent and original research on a topic within child development and education.

Faculty members are renowned experts in developmental psychology, education sciences, and related disciplines, providing mentorship and fostering a stimulating academic environment. The university’s strong ties with schools, research institutes, and government organizations offer students excellent opportunities for internships, fieldwork, and collaborative projects. Graduates of this programme are well-equipped with the knowledge, skills, and research competencies necessary to contribute to academic advancement, improve educational practices, and influence policies aimed at supporting children's development worldwide.

Program requirements for the Child Development and Education (Research) master's programme at the University of Amsterdam typically include a relevant bachelor's degree in education, psychology, or a related field, with sufficient academic performance demonstrated through a minimum GPA or equivalent grading system. Applicants are required to submit official transcripts, a motivation letter outlining their research interests and career goals, and a curriculum vitae highlighting relevant academic and extracurricular experiences. Proficiency in English must be demonstrated through standardized tests such as IELTS or TOEFL, with minimum scores set by the university to ensure sufficient language skills for postgraduate study. Additionally, some background knowledge or coursework in child development, research methodology, or educational sciences may be considered advantageous. The selection process involves an assessment of academic achievements, motivation, and relevant experience, often including an interview or online assessment. Candidates are expected to have strong analytical and critical thinking skills, as well as a motivation to contribute to scientific research in the field of child development and education. It is recommended that applicants review specific admission requirements on the university’s official website for detailed and updated information. International applicants should also ensure compliance with visa and residence permit regulations. The programme may also encourage or require applicants to have practical experience working with children or in educational settings, which can strengthen their application. Successful applicants will be invited to participate in an interview, either online or in person, where they will discuss their motivation and research interests. The programme promotes diversity and values applicants with different backgrounds and perspectives, aiming to enrich academic discourse and research in the field of child development. Some funding opportunities or scholarships may be available to admitted students, subject to application and eligibility criteria. The master's programme prepares students for research careers in academia, government agencies, or educational organizations, emphasizing rigorous scientific methods and innovative approaches to understanding and improving child development and education.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Child Development and Education (research) master's program at the University of Amsterdam offers a range of financing options for prospective students. The program itself is funded through a combination of university resources, government support, and various scholarship schemes designed to assist both domestic and international students. Students are encouraged to explore the university's official scholarship portal, which lists available grants such as the Amsterdam Excellence Scholarships (AES) for outstanding international students, and the Holland Scholarship, aimed at talented students from outside the European Economic Area. Additionally, the Dutch government provides loan programs and financial aid for residents, which students can apply for through DUO, the Dutch student finance organization. For students from the European Union or EEA countries, specific funding opportunities may be available, including tuition fee discounts or grants. International students are advised to seek external funding from their home country’s education agencies or foundations that support international study abroad. The university also offers various bursaries and work-study opportunities, allowing students to finance their studies while gaining professional experience. Tuition fees for this program vary depending on the student’s nationality, with EU/EEA students paying significantly lower fees compared to non-EU/EEA students. The exact costs are outlined on the university’s official website, along with detailed instructions on how to apply for financial aid. Moreover, students are encouraged to consider part-time employment opportunities within Amsterdam, including on-campus jobs, internships, and freelance work, all of which can help cover living expenses associated with studying in the Netherlands. The university provides comprehensive guidance and support services to assist students in managing their finances throughout their academic journey. It is also recommended to plan a budget carefully, considering not only tuition but also accommodation, transportation, insurance, and daily expenses. Overall, financing education in this program involves a combination of institutional scholarships, government support, external grants, personal savings, and part-time work, enabling students to pursue their degree without undue financial hardship.

The Master's programme in Child Development and Education (Research) at the University of Amsterdam is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the psychological, educational, and developmental processes that influence children's growth and learning. This programme is tailored for individuals who are interested in pursuing research-oriented careers in the fields of developmental psychology, education sciences, and child welfare. The curriculum emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating insights from psychology, pedagogy, neurosciences, and sociology to offer a well-rounded perspective on childhood development.

Students participating in this programme will engage with a variety of core courses that cover theories of child development, research methodology, experimental design, and statistical analysis. These courses aim to equip students with the necessary skills to design, conduct, and analyze empirical research studies. The programme also offers specialized electives focusing on topics such as language acquisition, social-emotional development, play and learning, as well as the influence of family and societal factors on children’s development.

A distinctive feature of the programme is its strong emphasis on empirical research, including opportunities for students to participate in ongoing research projects within the university’s renowned research institute in Developmental and Educational Psychology. Through these projects, students gain practical experience in data collection, analysis, and interpretation, fostering critical thinking and scientific literacy. The programme prepares graduates for PhD studies or research roles in governmental, non-governmental, or educational organizations that focus on child welfare and development.

The teaching methodology combines lectures, seminars, workshops, and laboratory work, providing a balanced and interactive learning environment. Collaboration with faculty members, who are international experts in the field, offers students exposure to cutting-edge research and innovative approaches. The programme also encourages international mobility and offers exchange opportunities to partner universities globally, enhancing cultural competence and broadening research perspectives.

Graduates of this programme are equipped with a deep understanding of developmental and educational theories, advanced research skills, and a critical perspective necessary to contribute meaningfully to the academic and practical fields. Upon completion, students are well-prepared to pursue doctoral research or careers in policy development, educational consultancy, and child advocacy. They are also capable of designing and implementing evidence-based interventions to promote optimal development in diverse child populations.

The University of Amsterdam's location in a vibrant academic city further enriches the student experience, providing access to numerous research institutes, policy organizations, and educational institutions. The programme's international focus and research orientation ensure that graduates are competitive in both national and global contexts, ready to address challenges related to child development and education across various settings.