Psychology (Research): Clinical and Health Psychology

The MSc in Psychology (Research): Clinical and Health Psychology at Leiden University offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of psychological principles, focusing on understanding and improving mental health and well-being. This programme is designed for students who are interested in conducting rigorous research to address complex psychological issues related to clinical practice and health. Over the course of the programme, students gain a solid foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of clinical and health psychology, equipping them with the skills necessary to design, implement, and evaluate research projects in these fields. The curriculum emphasizes a biopsychosocial approach, integrating biological, psychological, and social factors affecting health and mental disorders. Students learn advanced research methodologies, including quantitative and qualitative techniques, essential for contributing to scientific knowledge and evidence-based practice. The programme offers opportunities for hands-on experience through research internships, individual supervision, and participation in ongoing projects conducted by experienced faculty members. Students also develop critical thinking and analytical skills crucial for interpreting research findings and translating them into clinical applications. Throughout the programme, emphasis is placed on ethical considerations, cultural competence, and innovative approaches to psychological assessment and intervention. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, healthcare organizations, and clinical practice, or further specialization through doctoral studies. The MSc in Psychology (Research): Clinical and Health Psychology at Leiden University provides a vibrant academic community with access to state-of-the-art research facilities, fostering an environment of collaboration, intellectual challenge, and professional growth. The programme’s flexible structure allows students to tailor their learning experience according to their interests, ensuring a well-rounded education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills in clinical and health psychology research.

The Master's in Psychology (Research): Clinical and Health Psychology at Leiden University offers an in-depth exploration of psychological principles related to health, illness, and healthcare. The program is designed to equip students with rigorous research skills and advanced knowledge to understand and address psychological aspects of health and disease across diverse populations. Throughout the program, students engage with core topics such as health behavior, illness cognition, stress management, patient-provider communication, and behavioral interventions aimed at promoting health and well-being.

The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical research methodologies, emphasizing experimental design, statistical analysis, and critical evaluation of scientific literature. Students have the opportunity to develop their own research projects, often collaborating with healthcare institutions and clinics to apply their skills in real-world settings. The program fosters a multidisciplinary perspective, integrating insights from psychology, medicine, public health, and social sciences to better understand complex health-related phenomena.

Course offerings include modules on psychological assessments, clinical intervention techniques, epidemiology, neuropsychology, and applied health psychology. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based practice and ethical considerations in clinical research and interventions. Students learn to design and evaluate clinical trials, interpret health data, and produce scientific publications.

In addition to coursework, students participate in seminars, workshops, and research internships, which enhance their practical skills and professional network. The program prepares graduates for careers in clinical research, healthcare consultancy, policy development, and further doctoral studies. By the end of the program, students are equipped to contribute to scientific knowledge and to improve health outcomes through research and innovative interventions. This MSc program is ideal for students passionate about applying psychological insights to improve mental and physical health outcomes on an individual and societal level.

Admission requirements

See www.unileidenmasters.nl for an overview of the requirements.

Other requirements

1. minimum kennis (ISPAC: overige vereisten) See www.unileidenmasters.nl for an overview of the requirements.
2. minimum kennis (ISPAC: overige vereisten) See www.unileidenmasters.nl for an overview of the requirements.
3. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) BA or BSc in Psychology or in a related field with a third year course (or 400 level) on the topic of the track (see www.unileidenmasters.nl).
4. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) BA or BSc in Psychology or in a related field with a third year course (or 400 level) on the topic of the track (see www.unileidenmasters.nl).

The Psychology (Research): Clinical and Health Psychology master's program at Leiden University offers various financing options for prospective students. International students are advised to explore scholarships such as the Holland Scholarship, which is available for talented students from outside the European Economic Area, granting a significant contribution towards tuition fees. Additionally, the Orange Tulip Scholarship Programme provides financial support for students from specific countries, and other country-specific scholarships may be accessible depending on the applicant's nationality. Dutch students and residents can benefit from government loan schemes and grants, such as those administered by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science. To be eligible, students generally need to meet certain academic and financial criteria. The university itself also provides some partial scholarships and funding opportunities, which are awarded based on academic merit or need. Besides external funding sources, students are encouraged to seek private scholarships and grants offered by external organizations, foundations, and international agencies. It is recommended to start searching and applying for financial aid early, ideally before the application deadline, to ensure eligibility and adequate time for processing. The program's tuition fees vary annually and depending on the student's nationality, with non-European Union students typically paying higher fees than EU students. Students are also advised to consider additional costs related to living expenses in Leiden, including accommodation, health insurance, study materials, and daily living costs. Some student loans and financial support options require timely application and specific documentation, so prospective students should consult the university's official financial aid pages for detailed criteria, deadlines, and application procedures. Leiden University's international student office provides guidance and assistance in applying for available scholarships and funding opportunities. Overall, financing the master's in Psychology (Research): Clinical and Health Psychology at Leiden University involves combining personal resources with external scholarships, government support, and financial planning to ensure a successful academic journey.

The Master's in Psychology with a specialization in Research: Clinical and Health Psychology at Leiden University offers an in-depth academic program designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in clinical and health psychology research. The program emphasizes scientific research methods, psychological theories, and their application in clinical settings. Students learn to design, conduct, and evaluate research projects aimed at understanding psychological disorders, health behaviors, and interventions. The curriculum includes coursework in advanced statistics, research methodology, evidence-based practice, and ethical considerations in psychological research. Students also engage in hands-on research activities, often collaborating with healthcare institutions or research centers affiliated with the university.

The program prepares graduates for careers in clinical research, healthcare consultancy, policy advisory roles, or continuation into PhD programs. It aims to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a robust understanding of the psychological processes affecting health and illness. The program emphasizes academic excellence, practical experience, and an understanding of the societal impact of psychological research. The language of instruction is primarily English, making it accessible to international students. Leiden University's reputation in psychology research and its extensive network of academic and healthcare partners support students’ professional development. The program typically lasts one year for full-time students, offering a rich combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and research projects designed to foster academic growth and practical skills in the field of clinical and health psychology.