Research Master in Education and Child Studies
A two-year research-focused master’s programme preparing students for PhD studies or evidence-based careers in child and education research.
Best for:Best for students with a bachelor’s in psychology, education, social sciences, or related fields who seek to specialise in evidence-based child and family research or pursue a PhD.
Overview
This two-year research master’s programme at Leiden University equips students with advanced research skills in Child and Education Studies, bridging theory and practice. Designed as preparatory training for PhD positions, it emphasises applied scientific research and evidence-based interventions for children and families. Students collaborate closely with professors and mentors on active research projects, contributing to societal needs in clinical assessment and youth care. The programme offers specialisation in social work and youth care, ensuring graduates can design, conduct, and evaluate research while linking academic findings to real-world practice. Its small-scale format ensures personalised supervision and mentorship throughout the thesis phase.
What you'll do
- Develop and execute independent research projects under the guidance of a supervisor and mentor.
- Design and evaluate applied scientific research in child and education studies, linking theory to practice.
- Contribute to ongoing research programmes within the department, collaborating with faculty and peers.
- Write a thesis that makes a meaningful contribution to the field of child and education studies.
- Engage in specialised training in evidence-based clinical assessment and treatment for children and families.
- Participate in seminars, workshops, and research discussions to refine research skills and knowledge.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Education, Social Sciences, or a related field.
Degree offered: Master of Science (MSc)
Language: English; Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (C2) or equivalent (IELTS 6.5 overall, TOEFL 90 internet-based, or equivalent).
Instruction: English
- Proven academic background in social sciences, psychology, or education.
- Strong research methodology skills.
- Ability to conduct independent research and write academic papers.
- Proficiency in English for academic purposes.
- No specific nationality restrictions.
- No age restrictions.
- No prior experience caps beyond academic qualifications.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
Admissions not verified
A catalogue listing does not mean applications are open or funding is guaranteed. Check the source for your intake.
- Intake
- Not confirmed by the source
- Duration
- Not confirmed by the source
- Teaching language
- Not confirmed by the source
- Taught / research mode
- Not confirmed by the source
- Study mode
- Not confirmed by the source
- Campus
- Not confirmed by the source
- Prerequisites
- Not confirmed by the source
- Application instructions
- Not confirmed by the source
- Tuition
- Not confirmed by the source
- Funding
- Not confirmed by the source
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-15
Applicants must submit their application through Leiden University’s official online portal. Required documents include a CV, a letter of motivation, academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and a research proposal. Two letters of recommendation are also required. The application process is competitive, and meeting the deadline is essential for consideration.
- CV
- Letter of motivation
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s degree)
- Proof of English proficiency (Cambridge C2, IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
- Research proposal
- Two letters of recommendation
Contact
Create a free profile to unlock your personal match score, the full requirements, funding details and how to apply — in English or Persian.