COURSE CURRICULUM

The master’s specialisation in Occupational Health Psychology at Leiden University is designed to provide advanced training in both research methods and professional skills, preparing students for careers in psychological research and applied professional settings. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum covering all essential aspects of occupational health psychology, combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience.Students complete four mandatory courses that cover the foundational and advanced elements of the field. These courses equip students with the ability to critically analyse workplace conditions, understand the psychological factors affecting employee well-being, and design interventions that promote safety, health, and productivity. The curriculum also emphasizes the development of professional skills, enabling students to bridge the gap between research and practice.A central component of the program is a 15 ECTS internship, which provides hands-on experience in a professional or research setting relevant to occupational health psychology. Students engage with real-world challenges, gaining practical insights into the work of psychologists, whether through applied interventions or fundamental research.The master’s thesis allows students to conduct in-depth research on a topic of their choice within the domain of occupational health psychology. This includes designing empirical studies, analysing data, and interpreting results. In some cases, students can work with existing large datasets, depending on staff research projects.Educational methods combine lectures, work group sessions, practical training, and online learning. Lectures apply theoretical knowledge to real-life examples, while small work groups foster discussion and deeper engagement with the material. Practical sessions develop skills in interviewing, observation, and statistical analysis. The online environment supports peer review, exam preparation, and recorded lectures. This integrated approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared for professional and research careers in occupational health psychology.