University of Amsterdam (UvA)
Master of Science
On Campus
University of Amsterdam (UvA)
University of Amsterdam (UvA)
Amsterdam
Netherlands

Psychology - Social Influence

This specialisation is narrow by design, and it suits applicants who already know they want to work on one question: how judgements and behaviour shift under social pressure. Teaching opens with social psychology theory, then persuasion and influence, social identity, group behaviour, and the cognitive and emotional inputs to decision-making. The second half moves those same questions into concrete settings, among them organisations, media, political campaigns, and consumer markets, and ends with a research project.

One year of full-time, on-campus study leaves little room for exploration, so the programme rewards candidates arriving with a direction rather than those still surveying psychology as a field. That direction need not be academic. Graduates are described as moving into behavioural research, social psychology, and marketing consultancy, working in research institutes, marketing firms, and government agencies concerned with social policy and public behaviour. Both routes are open from the same degree.

About

The Master of Science in Psychology - Social Influence is a one-year, full-time on-campus program that focuses on the psychological processes behind social influence, persuasion, and behavior change. The program explores topics such as group dynamics, social networks, decision-making, and the impact of social media, providing students with a deep understanding of how individuals are influenced by social factors.

Graduates will be well-prepared for careers in social research, marketing, public relations, organizational behavior, and behavioral science. The University of Amsterdam (UvA) offers access to expert faculty, hands-on research opportunities, and a dynamic learning environment, ensuring students are equipped to apply social influence theories in real-world settings.

Key Facts

Program Details
Degree: Master of Science
Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Academic Information
Area of study: Psychology
Study Format
Study Type: On Campus
Format: Full-time
Language
-

Program Structure

Semester 1 – Foundations in Social Influence

  • Introduction to Social Psychology
  • Theories of Social Influence and Persuasion
  • Social Identity and Group Behavior
  • Cognitive and Emotional Influences on Behavior

Semester 2 – Advanced Social Influence Studies

  • Social Influence in Groups and Organizations
  • Media and Persuasion
  • Political and Consumer Influence
  • Research Project in Social Influence

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Psychology – Social Influence Master’s program can work in social research, consumer behavior, and public policy. With expertise in social psychology and behavioral influence, graduates are well-prepared for careers as behavioral researchers, social psychologists, or marketing consultants. This program provides opportunities in research institutions, marketing firms, and governmental agencies focused on social policy and public behavior.

Why Choose This Program

The Psychology – Social Influence Master’s program offers a deep exploration of how social and psychological factors influence individual and group behavior. Students examine topics such as persuasion, conformity, and social identity, learning how these concepts can be applied in real-world settings. The program’s research-focused approach ensures that graduates are equipped with strong analytical skills, preparing them for careers in social research, public policy, or marketing. Graduates are well-positioned to influence social change and understand human behavior.

Contact Information

For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +31 (0)20 525 1400
Email: info@uva.nl
Address: University of Amsterdam (UvA), Spui 21, 1012 WX Amsterdam, Netherlands

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Duration
-
Tuition fee
$27,235.00/year
Location
Amsterdam, Netherlands
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