Social and Economic Psychology (research) (MSc)
The Social and Economic Psychology specialisation offers in-depth knowledge of a broad range of theories and research domains in this area, all concerning the way people’s social environment influences thoughts, feelings, and behaviour.
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Minke Osinga
How does this master’s specialisation help make the world a bit better, friendlier, or greener?

'This master’s track tackles real-world challenges about human behaviour, such as how to increase sustainable behaviour, or...
... how to help people with financial stress. By thinking about and working on societally relevant questions, it really feels as if I can have a positive impact on the world.'
Eline Kalmijn
What achievement in this programme am I most proud of?

'I am most proud of discovering where my true ambition lies. While I already had a passion for social and economic psychology...
... applying my knowledge scientifically, engaging in academic writing, and networking with professors have strengthened my goals and increased my excitement for the future.'
What does this master's programme entail?
The main aim of this specialisation is to provide a broad overview of classic and more recent approaches. You will be trained to integrate different perspectives and findings, in order to develop novel research questions. Through written assignments and discussions and presentations in small groups you will practice developing theory-driven analyses of a range of issues in social and economic psychology, and learn how to examine these with advanced research methods.
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Watch the video on the original website orReasons to choose Social and Economic Psychology at Leiden University
- A Research Master's degree will give you a great perspective on a future in research within the public or private sector.
- A Research Master's degree is the perfect way to preare for a PhD programme.
- Because only the most talented and motivated students will be admitted to the Research Master's track, you will be guaranteed to be challenged during your studies.
- Because the Research Master is a two-year academic programme, you really have the possibility to delve deep into Psychological theories about the subjects that interest you the most. This is also a great way to develop your research skills.
Social and Economic Psychology: the right programme for you?
Students who choose to take the Research Master’s track Social and Economic Psychology acquire in-depth knowledge of a broad range of theories and research domains in this area, all concerning the way people’s social environment influences thoughts, feelings, and behaviour.
This programme focuses specifically on processes within and between groups. Examples of theory development and research in each of these areas are conflict management, leadership, social dilemmas, diversity, stereotyping and prejudice, individual and group decision making. Relevant fields for application are organisation and management in particular, but also economic behaviour and environmental issues. This track is the ideal start for a PhD programme in Social and Organisational Psychology.