Psychology Schools and Programs in Netherlands

Psychology Studies in Netherlands

The opportunity to study abroad in a foreign country is one that shouldn’t be passed up, and for those looking to pursue a degree in psychology there is no better place in which to participate in such a program than in the beautiful country of Netherlands.
 
Study abroad programs in the Netherlands afford students the unique opportunity to study and live abroad in this fascinating country, usually for a semester or academic year, while experiencing everything this forward-thinking nation has to offer. The Netherlands boasts one of the finest educational systems in the world, evidenced by the long list of famous minds that have hailed from the country, including 18 Nobel Prize winners.  
 
The Netherlands is a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, consisting of 12 provinces in Western Europe and three islands in the Caribbean.  The mainland or European part of the Netherlands borders the North Sea to the north and west, Belgium to the south and Germany to the east; and shares maritime borders with Belgium, Germany and the United Kingdom.  The country is organized as a parliamentary democracy and a unitary state.  The Netherlands in its entirety is often referred to as Holland, which in strict usage, refers only to North and South Holland, two of its provinces; however the former usage is generally accepted.
 
One of the most renowned cities in the Netherlands (and the world, for that matter) is Amsterdam, the country’s capital and largest city and the financial and cultural hub of the country.  With its famous canals, fantastic museums, fashion-forward designers and the infamous Red Light District, Amsterdam has come to typify the Netherlands, although it is just one of the shining reasons to choose this country for your study abroad adventure.
 
Psychology Education in the Netherlands
 
Psychology is a popular course of study that is offered by the majority of universities in the Netherlands, both at the undergraduate and graduate degree levels.  Undergraduate programs in psychology, which lead to an academic bachelor degree in the discipline, generally span three years in duration, and while no formal degree is awarded at the conclusion of this stage, those who successfully complete the program become eligible to pursue a graduate or Master’s degree.  The Master’s degree program in Psychology—considered the minimum qualification for those who wish to practice psychology in a clinical setting—typically takes an additional two years to complete (120 credits). 

Bachelor and Master’s degree programs in psychology are prevalent at universities throughout the Netherlands, and the degree has become a very popular option among students. These programs help prepare students for a variety of careers, as well as advanced study in psychology and other subjects including medicine and the law.

If you think that a degree program in psychology might be the right choice for you, it is imperative that you consider the various educational requirements involved in such a program.  The exact requirements can vary considerably from one university to the next, but most programs require students to complete a number of general education courses, core psychology courses and psychology electives. Some of the commonly required core psychology courses include general psychology, abnormal psychology, statistics, experimental psychology, cognitive and behavioral therapy, and personality psychology.  Those pursuing a Master’s degree will also be required to complete an original graduate thesis or capstone project prior to graduation, and defend their findings before a panel of university faculty.

Why Study Abroad in the Netherlands

Studying abroad in the Netherlands is an opportunity of a lifetime, as the country offers many unique advantages as an educational destination.  Below are just a few of the reasons to consider this beautiful country for your upcoming study abroad adventure.

Centrally Located

While there are countless things to do and see in the Netherlands itself, the country is also very centrally located, making it the perfect gateway through which to visit any number of countries in Europe.  With seven countries within driving distance and many others no more than an hour’s flight away, the Netherlands is the perfect choice for those who wish to explore all that Europe has to offer.

Safety

The Netherlands is a very safe place in which to study and live for a time, and its low crime rate means that students can explore the country freely without the constant fear of being targeted. 

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of the most beloved world capitals, largely due to the wide range of sites, attractions and activities the wonderful city has to offer.  Here visitors will find scores of museums, galleries and historic landmarks, and some of the finest architecture in Europe.  Restaurants and shopping centers also abound in Amsterdam, as do bars, nightclubs and other entertaining hotspots that are popular among the younger set.

The People

The Dutch are some are the friendliest people on the planet, and their laidback lifestyle makes it easy for international students to quickly feel at home in the Netherlands.  No matter where you happen to travel within the country, you can bet you will find people who are more than happy to welcome you and share stories about the country’s long and storied history and rich culture.

The Hague

The Hague is a great sightseeing destination and one of the world’s most influential cities in terms of international relations. The Hague is the third largest city in the Netherlands, but it is also the de facto judicial center for the United Nations and is home to over 150 international organizations, including the International Criminal Court.