COURSE CURRICULUM

The Health Psychology Master’s program is designed to provide students with both a strong theoretical foundation and the professional skills required to work effectively in the field of health psychology and behaviour change. The curriculum is centred around four core courses. The first course introduces theories of health psychology and behaviour change, guiding students in understanding and analysing targeted behaviours. The second course explores the influence of communities and broader social systems on health and well-being, while also teaching methods for co-creation with societal stakeholders to address pressing societal challenges. The third course focuses on digital behavioural health, providing the expertise needed to design, implement, and evaluate digital interventions. The fourth course equips students with essential professional and research skills specifically related to behaviour change.In addition to these core components, students may choose one or two electives that expand their expertise. These electives cover both methodological skills, such as qualitative research methods or advanced statistics, and complementary theoretical knowledge, including leadership and coaching. All courses and activities are conducted in English, ensuring an international and accessible learning environment.During the second semester, students undertake two internships—a professional internship and a research internship—which together form the basis of their master’s thesis. These internships can be pursued separately or combined into a single extended placement that integrates both practical and research components. Opportunities are available in external organisations, companies, and research institutes working in healthcare, health promotion, behaviour change, policy development, and digital health. This provides students with valuable real-world experience, applying their academic knowledge in professional contexts.The program maintains a broad and active internship network that includes public health organisations, municipalities such as Rotterdam, local public health services (GGD), consultancy firms, research consortia, e-health providers, and start-ups in digital behaviour change. Students also have the option to pursue internships abroad with relevant organisations. By the end of the program, graduates are well prepared for careers in health psychology, behaviour change, and related fields, supported by practical experience, research expertise, and a wide professional network.