Traffic Psychology and Sustained Mobility

The Master's programme in Traffic Psychology and Sustained Mobility at the University of Groningen is an innovative and comprehensive programme designed for students interested in understanding the psychological factors that influence traffic behaviour and ensuring safe, sustainable, and efficient mobility systems. This programme offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing graduates for careers in research, policy-making, and consultancy within the field of transportation and road safety.

Throughout the programme, students will explore the psychological aspects of driver behaviour, pedestrian safety, and the impact of various environmental and technological factors on mobility. The curriculum covers core topics such as cognitive psychology, behavioural analysis, traffic safety, human factors in transportation, and the influence of technology on mobility, including autonomous vehicles and smart transportation systems. Emphasis is placed on understanding how human behaviour interacts with traffic systems and how to design interventions and policies to promote safer and more sustainable mobility.

The programme is characterized by a strong research orientation, enabling students to develop critical thinking and analytical skills through the completion of a research thesis. Practical skills are also emphasized through workshops, case studies, and projects in collaboration with industry stakeholders and government agencies. Students gain hands-on experience with data analysis, behavioural modelling, and the use of innovative tools to assess and influence traffic behaviour.

Graduates of the Traffic Psychology and Sustained Mobility programme will be equipped to work in diverse sectors such as transportation planning, traffic safety assessment, policy development, and consultancy. They play a crucial role in creating strategies for sustainable mobility, reducing traffic accidents, and improving overall road safety standards. The programme benefits from the University of Groningen’s strong research environment and extensive network of professionals and academics dedicated to advancing knowledge and practice in traffic psychology and mobility.

Overall, this programme offers a stimulating and academically rigorous environment for students who aspire to make a meaningful impact on safely managing mobility in our increasingly complex transportation landscape. Upon completion, graduates will be well-prepared to contribute innovative solutions to challenges faced by modern traffic systems and to promote healthier, safer, and more sustainable transportation for all.

The Master's programme in Traffic Psychology and Sustained Mobility at the University of Groningen offers an interdisciplinary curriculum designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of human behavior in the context of transportation systems. This program combines psychological theories, behavioral sciences, and transportation engineering to analyze and influence mobility patterns, aiming to improve road safety, enhance traffic flow, and promote sustainable transportation solutions. Throughout the coursework, students explore topics such as driver behavior, risk perception, decision-making processes, and the psychological factors affecting commuting and travel habits. The programme emphasizes research skills, enabling students to design, conduct, and analyze empirical studies related to traffic psychology and mobility. Practical applications are integrated via case studies, fieldwork, and collaborations with industry partners, preparing graduates to address real-world challenges in traffic management and transportation policy. Students will also learn about technological innovations, such as intelligent transport systems and automated vehicles, and their psychological implications. The curriculum fosters critical thinking and innovative problem-solving abilities, essential for developing effective interventions aimed at improving driver safety, reducing traffic congestion, and supporting sustainable mobility initiatives. Graduates of this programme are well-equipped for careers in traffic safety organizations, transportation consultancy firms, government agencies, and research institutes. They will possess a deep understanding of behavioral change techniques and policy development to influence safer and more efficient transportation environments. The programme is conducted in English and is designed for students interested in combining psychological expertise with transportation sciences to contribute to safer, smarter, and more sustainable mobility solutions worldwide.

Admission requirements

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.

Other requirements

1. 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.
2. 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
3. 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.
4. 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

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 Master’s degree program in Traffic Psychology and Sustained Mobility at the University of Groningen offers several financing options to support prospective students in pursuing their studies. Tuition fees for this program vary depending on the student’s nationality. For European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) students, the standard tuition fee is set by the Dutch government and usually remains fixed annually. For non-EU/EEA students, the tuition fees are typically higher, reflecting the international status of the program. These fees are published on the official university website and are subject to change annually. Beyond tuition fees, students should consider additional costs such as health insurance, accommodation, textbooks, and living expenses, which can significantly impact the overall cost of study.

The University of Groningen offers various funding opportunities to assist students financially. These include scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs targeted at both domestic and international students. One prominent scholarship option is the Holland Scholarship, which aims to promote international education and is available for non-EU/EEA students. The University of Groningen also participates in the Orange Tulip Scholarship Programme, designed to attract talented students from certain countries. Applicants are encouraged to check the university’s scholarships webpage regularly for updated eligibility criteria and application deadlines.

In addition to external scholarships, there are specific grants and financial support schemes available through Dutch government initiatives, Erasmus+ programs, and partnerships with industry stakeholders related to traffic psychology and mobility research. These opportunities often require applicants to meet certain academic and nationality criteria and may be competitive. Students are advised to contact the university’s financial aid office to receive personalized guidance and to explore eligibility for alternative funding sources.

Students opting to study in the Netherlands may also consider student loans available through Dutch financial institutions, which provide flexible repayment options. Many students combine part-time work opportunities permitted under Dutch regulations to supplement their income during their studies. The university’s career services can help students find suitable employment and internships relevant to their field of study.

Overall, financing a Master’s degree in Traffic Psychology and Sustained Mobility at the University of Groningen involves exploring a combination of tuition fees, scholarships, external funding, and personal financial planning. Prospective students should spend time researching all available options, preparing necessary documentation early, and consulting with university coordinators to maximize their chances of securing financial support. Proper planning and awareness of funding possibilities can make this advanced program more accessible and affordable, enabling students to focus on their academic and professional development in the field of traffic psychology and mobility.

The Master's program in Traffic Psychology and Sustained Mobility at the University of Groningen is an interdisciplinary and innovative program designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the psychological, behavioural, and social factors that influence traffic safety and mobility. This program focuses on the development of practical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to analyze and improve road user behaviour, enhance transportation systems, and promote sustainable mobility solutions. It addresses critical issues such as driver behaviour, accident prevention, human-machine interaction, and how individual differences, cognitive processes, and environmental influences impact transportation safety.

Students in this program will engage in a rigorous curriculum that combines coursework, research projects, and internships. The coursework covers key topics including traffic psychology theories, risk perception, decision-making processes, fatigue and distraction management, and the use of technology in traffic environments. Emphasis is also placed on sustainable transportation planning, policy-making, public acceptance of new mobility solutions, and the integration of intelligent transport systems. The program fosters an understanding of how psychological principles can be applied to develop safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly transportation systems.

The program is unique in its international orientation, attracting students from around the world who are interested in careers in academia, government agencies, research institutions, transportation consultancy firms, and private industry. It prepares graduates to evaluate traffic safety measures, design intervention programs, and contribute to policy development aimed at reducing accidents and promoting sustainable mobility. The program benefits from the Groningen University's strong research environment and collaboration with industry partners, ensuring that students have opportunities for practical experience and access to cutting-edge research.

Graduates of this Master's program will be equipped with analytical skills, research competencies, and practical expertise to address complex problems related to traffic safety and mobility. They will be prepared to work in multidisciplinary teams and contribute to innovative solutions that enhance road safety and foster sustainable transportation practices globally. The program emphasizes the importance of evidence-based decision making and promotes lifelong learning and professional development in the rapidly evolving field of traffic psychology and mobility.

Overall, the Traffic Psychology and Sustained Mobility Master's program at the University of Groningen offers a comprehensive, research-oriented education that prepares students to make a meaningful impact in the field of transportation. Graduates emerge with a strong foundation in psychology, transportation science, and policy, enabling them to pursue diverse career opportunities dedicated to safer and more sustainable mobility for the future.