Research Master’s in Social Psychology

The Research Master’s in Social Psychology at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers a deep dive into how social environments shape human thoughts, emotions, and behaviors—and vice versa. Students investigate foundational psychological processes like genetics, neuroscience, and personality, as well as broader societal phenomena such as moral and political behavior or ecological influences on cooperation. The programme provides rigorous training in research methods, statistics, writing, and presentation skills, preparing graduates for careers in academia, policy, or applied research. Supervised by leading experts, students contribute to cutting-edge projects that bridge individual-level psychology with complex societal dynamics. This is ideal for those passionate about interdisciplinary social science and evidence-based problem-solving.

• Conduct original research on topics such as evolutionary foundations of behavior, moral reasoning, or societal cooperation mechanisms.
• Develop and apply advanced research methods, including statistical analysis and qualitative techniques, to investigate social phenomena.
• Develop skills in academic writing, presentation, and dissemination of research findings to both academic and non-academic audiences.
• Engage with theoretical perspectives that address critical issues in psychology and society, such as inequality, political behavior, or ecological sustainability.
• Collaborate with faculty and peers to contribute to interdisciplinary projects that bridge psychology and broader societal questions.
• Participate in comprehensive training programs covering research design, data analysis, and ethical considerations in social science research.