Environmental Psychology

Environmental Psychology at the University of Groningen explores the intricate relationship between humans and their physical environment. This interdisciplinary programme combines insights from psychology, sociology, architecture, and environmental sciences to understand how our surroundings influence behavior, well-being, and societal development. Students will examine topics such as sustainable behavior, environmental perception, behavior change, and the design of spaces that promote health and sustainability. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical applications, the programme aims to prepare students to address complex environmental challenges by promoting positive human-environment interactions. The curriculum includes coursework in environmental perception, experimental methods, sustainable development, urban planning, and behavioral change strategies. Students will engage in research projects, fieldwork, and internships to gain hands-on experience and develop practical skills. The programme emphasizes critical thinking, innovative solutions, and multidisciplinary collaboration, equipping graduates to work in policy-making, urban planning, environmental consultancy, and research institutions. The University of Groningen's dedicated faculty members are experts in their fields, providing mentorship and fostering an engaging academic environment. Graduates of this programme will be well-prepared to contribute to creating sustainable, healthy, and resilient environments that enhance quality of life for individuals and communities worldwide. This programme is suitable for students passionate about making a tangible difference in how we interact with our environment, driven by a desire to promote sustainability and well-being at both local and global levels.

Environmental Psychology at the University of Groningen is a dynamic and interdisciplinary master's programme designed to explore the complex relationship between humans and their environments. This programme provides students with a comprehensive understanding of how physical, social, and psychological environments influence human behaviour and well-being. Throughout the curriculum, students examine topics such as sustainable behaviour, environmental perception, place attachment, and the psychological impact of urban and natural environments. The programme emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, preparing students to address pressing environmental challenges through psychological insights.

Students will engage with core modules covering environmental perception, behavior change, and design of space that promotes well-being. They will also have opportunities to specialise in areas like sustainable urban development or environmental management. The programme includes research methods training, equipping students with quantitative and qualitative skills necessary for conducting high-quality research. Fieldwork, group projects, and case studies are integral components of the curriculum, enabling students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts.

The programme encourages an international perspective, welcoming students from diverse backgrounds who are passionate about making a positive impact on environmental issues. With a strong emphasis on research, students have the opportunity to collaborate with faculty members on ongoing projects related to environmental behaviour and sustainable development. Graduates of this programme are well-prepared for careers in environmental consultancy, urban planning, policy advising, or further academic research. They contribute to creating healthier, more sustainable spaces where people and environments can thrive. The University of Groningen's state-of-the-art facilities and supportive academic community provide an ideal environment for students to develop their expertise and become changemakers in the field of environmental psychology.

Admission requirements

In order to start the master in Psychology programme you have to be formally admitted to the programme. You can be admitted to the master programme per the first of September. All students with a bachelor Psychology from a non-Dutch university have to follow this procedure: Applicants require a Bachelor's degree in Psychology or an equivalent competence in terms of: * Knowledge of disciplinary subjects in psychology and their applications, * Good skills in designing psychological research and reporting it, * Solid knowledge of methods of data collection and statistical analysis, * An analytical and critical attitude enabling you to assess scientific information, * Motivation to acquire knowledge and skills at a postgraduate level

Other requirements

1. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) Toelating is mogelijk voor * Studenten die de bacheloropleiding Psychologie aan de Rijksuniversiteit Groningen volgen of gevolgd hebben (onvoorwaardelijke toelating). Aanmelding is tot 1 september mogelijk. * Studenten die een bacheloropleiding Psychologie aan een andere Nederlandse universiteit volgen of gevolgd hebben (na toestemming toelatingscommissie) * Studenten die een andere (universitaire) bacheloropleiding volgen of gevolgd hebben. Hieronder vallen ook hbo-studenten die de opleiding Toegepaste Psychologie volgen of gevolgd hebben (met pre-master) Let op: hbo-studenten die een andere opleiding volgen of gevolgd hebben dan (Toegepaste) Psychologie worden niet toegelaten tot de masteropleiding of het schakelprogramma. Een aanvraag tot toelating zal niet in behandeling worden genomen. De toelatingcommissie baseert toelating en eventueel aanvullend schakelprogramma van een externe studenten op basis van vooropleiding. Kijk voor meer informatie op:http://www.rug.nl/gmw/psychology/education/switch-modules.
2. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) In order to start the master in Psychology programme you have to be formally admitted to the programme. You can be admitted to the master programme per the first of September. All students with a bachelor Psychology from a non-Dutch university have to follow this procedure: Applicants require a Bachelor's degree in Psychology or an equivalent competence in terms of: * Knowledge of disciplinary subjects in psychology and their applications, * Good skills in designing psychological research and reporting it, * Solid knowledge of methods of data collection and statistical analysis, * An analytical and critical attitude enabling you to assess scientific information, * Motivation to acquire knowledge and skills at a postgraduate level
3. schriftelijk verzoek Meld je aan via www.studielink.nl. In Studielink selecteer je eerst “Psychologie” van de drop-downlijst met studies en vervolgens het gewenst masterprogramma. Heb je nog vragen, neem dan contact op via: bss.msc.admission@rug.nl. Voor inhoudelijke vragen over het masterprogramma, mail naar: environmentalpsychology@rug.nl.
4. schriftelijk verzoek To apply for this program, first go to Studielink. In Studielink, you first need to select “Psychology” from the drop-down list of study programs. After you have submitted your details in Studielink, you will receive an e-mail with the information necessary to activate your user account for OAS (the Online Application System). In OAS you can choose for the specific master program. See the following website for some guidance in OAS: http://www.rug.nl/education/international-students/application-procedure. Please upload the following documents in OAS: * a certified copy of the (Bachelor) diploma on the basis of which you ask admission to our programme (both original language and translated in English) * a certified copy of your transcript of records (both original language and translated in English) * a certified copy of your results for one of the mentioned English tests (exc. for native speakers) * a copy of your passport or ID card * a letter of motivation * two references Please send all documents to: Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, Admissions Office, Faculteit Gedrags- en Maatschappijwetenschappen, Broerstraat 5, 9712 CP Groningen, The Netherlands. If you have any doubts about your application, please contact us at: bss.msc.admission@rug.nl. For questions about the master's programme, please send an email to: environmentalpsychology@rug.nl.
5. aanvullend vak Applicants should have qualifications that justify the expectation of successful completion of the programme in due time. These qualifications include knowledge and experience in relevant theories, statistics and experience with statistical software packages. Please be aware of our high level of statistics during the bachelor psychology programme and subsequent to this the required high level of statistics in our master Psychology programme.
6. taaltoets cijfer Non-native English speakers must moreover provide evidence of satisfactory results for one of the standard tests below : CPE: A, B or C CAE: A, B or C TOEFL: 580 paper-based or 237 computer-based or 92-93 internet-based IELTS: Band 6.5

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 financing of the Master's in Environmental Psychology at the University of Groningen is primarily based on the funding options available to international and Dutch students, including government grants, scholarships, student loans, and personal funding. Dutch students and EU/EEA students generally have access to government student finance, which can cover tuition fees and living costs, though the specifics depend on the student's residency status and eligibility. International students outside the EU/EEA are usually responsible for paying the full tuition fee, which varies annually and depends on the student's nationality. Some students may be eligible for scholarships, such as the Holland Scholarship, which provides financial support to talented international students seeking to study in the Netherlands, or university-specific scholarships aimed at supporting students in environmental sciences and psychology. The University of Groningen also offers Talent Scholarships that support high-achieving students, which can significantly offset study costs.

Students are advised to explore external funding options such as Erasmus+ grants for students participating in exchange programs or internships, as well as funding from home country sources. Living expenses in Groningen, including accommodation, food, transportation, and personal costs, should also be considered, and students typically budget between €800 and €1,200 per month, depending on their lifestyle and accommodation choices. The tuition fee for the Master's in Environmental Psychology generally ranges from approximately €2,200 for EU/EEA students to around €13,000 for non-EU/EEA students per year. Financial planning is an essential component of application and enrolment, and students are encouraged to consult the university's official financial aid office for personalized advice.

In summary, financing a degree in Environmental Psychology at the University of Groningen involves a combination of governmental aid, scholarships, personal savings, and possibly external funding sources. The university provides comprehensive guidance and resources to help prospective students identify suitable funding opportunities and plan their finances for the duration of their studies, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder access to quality higher education in this field.

The Master's in Environmental Psychology at the University of Groningen is an interdisciplinary program designed to explore the dynamic relationship between humans and their environment. This program aims to understand how the physical and social environment influences human behavior, well-being, and health. Students will examine various environmental factors, including urban design, sustainability, climate change, natural surroundings, and built environments, and how these impact psychological processes.

The curriculum integrates core psychological theories with environmental sciences, allowing students to develop a comprehensive understanding of environmental issues from a psychological perspective. Courses include topics such as environmental perception, environmental attitudes, behavior change, sustainable development, and environmental stress. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, encouraging students to engage in research projects, fieldwork, and case studies to develop hands-on expertise.

Students will learn about measurement techniques, data analysis, and research methodologies relevant to environmental psychology. The program also offers opportunities for specialization, enabling students to focus on specific areas such as urban planning, environmental policy, or sustainability initiatives. Collaboration with local government, organizations, and international institutions provides real-world experience and insights into current environmental challenges and solutions.

Graduates of the program are equipped to pursue careers in academia, research institutions, urban planning agencies, environmental consultancy firms, and governmental agencies focused on sustainable development. The program fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation, preparing students to contribute effectively to creating sustainable, healthy, and resilient environments.

The University of Groningen is known for its innovative research and comprehensive approach to environmental psychology, providing students with access to experienced faculty members, research centers, and state-of-the-art facilities. International students are welcomed, and a multicultural campus environment enriches the educational experience.

Overall, the Master's in Environmental Psychology offers an in-depth, multidisciplinary education that prepares students to address complex environmental issues through psychological insights and evidence-based solutions, shaping the future of sustainable living and environmental stewardship.