Understand why people think, feel and act the way they do. Webster Leiden’s Bachelor of Science in Psychology combines biological, cognitive and social science to give you a complete picture of human behavior.
Hands-on research is at the heart of this program. You will learn to design experiments, analyze data and solve human problems — skills that prepare you directly for master’s and PhD programs. Since a graduate degree is required for professional practice and licensure, students should verify post-graduate admission requirements early to align their Webster coursework accordingly.
Why Study Psychology at Webster Leiden?
High-Level Research and Data Skills
You will gain hands-on training in research methods and advanced statistics. During your senior year, you will complete an independent Senior Thesis with one-on-one guidance from expert faculty.
A Truly Global Perspective
Study alongside students from all over the world in interactive classes. You can also take courses or study abroad at Webster’s other global campuses, including Vienna, Geneva and Athens.
Personal Faculty Support
Our professors are active researchers and practitioners in clinical, cognitive and developmental psychology. Because of our student-centered education model, you get direct feedback, mentorship and career advice.
Live and Study in Leiden
Leiden is a famous university town in the heart of the Netherlands. Student housing includes access to private courtyards, art spaces and student lounges — giving you a cozy, vibrant international environment.
What You Will Learn
When you graduate with your BS in Psychology, you will be able to:
- Understand Core Concepts: Explain major theories and historical trends across key areas of psychology.
- Conduct Scientific Research: Formulate research questions, collect data, run statistical tests and interpret findings.
- Think Biologically: Understand how genetics, brain chemistry and biological systems shape human behavior.
- Practice Ethics: Apply professional ethics, respect cultural diversity and promote well-being in local and global communities.
- Communicate Clearly: Present scientific ideas effectively in writing, public speaking and team projects.
- Develop Professionally: Apply self-management, teamwork and project skills to build a clear career path or plan for graduate school.
Curriculum Overview
- MATH 1430 College Algebra (3 hours)
- BIOL 1010 Human Biology (4 hours)
- BIOL 1040 Human Genetics (3 hours)
- PSYC 1100 Introduction to Psychology (3 hours)
- PSYC 1800 Careers in Psychology (3 hours)
- PSYC 2750 Introduction to Measurement and Statistics (3 hours)
- PSYC 2825 Introduction to Research Methods (3 hours)
- PSYC 2975 Sophomore Assessment (0 hours)
- PSYC 3025 Psychology and Ethics (3 hours)
- PSYC 3825 Psychological Research Design and Analysis (3 hours)
- PSYC 4750 Advanced Statistics (3 hours)
- PSYC 4825 Senior Thesis (3 hours)
- PSYC 4925 Senior Capstone: History, Philosophy, and Systems of Psychology (3 hours)
- PSYC 4950 Senior Assessment (0 hour)
- Psychology electives (12 hours) — these are in addition to the Content Area classes
You must select at least one course from each of the following five focus areas:
Biological Perspectives
- PSYC 3850 Sensation and Perception (3 hours)
- PSYC 4300 Health Psychology (3 hours)
- PSYC 4550 Drug and Chemical Dependency (3 hours)
- PSYC 4650 Biopsychology (3 hours)
Clinical and Counseling Perspectives
- PSYC 3125 Psychological Disorders (3 hours)
- PSYC 3775 Personality Theory (3 hours)
- PSYC 3900 Introduction to Counseling (3 hours)
- PSYC 4225 Introduction to the Helping Professions (3 hours)
Lifespan Development Perspectives
- PSYC 2200 Child Psychology (3 hours)
- PSYC 2250 Adolescent Psychology (3 hours)
- PSYC 2300 Lifespan Development (3 hours)
- PSYC 2950 Psychology of Adulthood and Aging (3 hours)
Learning and Cognitive Perspectives
- PSYC 3325 Applied Learning Theory (3 hours)
- PSYC 3350 Cognitive Psychology (3 hours)
- PSYC 3525 Memory (3 hours)
- PSYC 3725 Psychology of Judgment and Decision Making (3 hours)
Social and Cross-Cultural Perspectives
- PSYC 3475 International Psychology (3 hours)
- PSYC 3575 Industrial/Organizational Psychology (3 hours)
- PSYC 3600 Social Psychology (3 hours)
- PSYC 3625 Motivation and Emotion (3 hours)
Career Options and Further Study
A BS in Psychology degree gives you a strong quantitative foundation for graduate study and scientific careers.
Pursuing Graduate Studies
To work as a licensed psychologist or practitioner, you will need a master’s degree or PhD. This BS program specifically prepares you for entry into Master’s (MA/MSc) and Doctoral (PhD) programs in:
- Clinical or Counseling Psychology
- Cognitive Science or Neuropsychology
- Experimental and Health Psychology
Immediate Career Pathways
Graduates can also step directly into entry-level roles in international business, human resources, research and community services, such as:
- Research Analyst or Assistant
- Human Resources Coordinator
- Case Manager or Community Outreach Worker
- Crisis Support Worker
- Project Assistant in Global Nonprofits
Accreditation and Regional Information
This degree is granted under U.S. institutional accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). It is not accredited under Dutch law (Wet op het Hoger Onderwijs - WHW). If you plan to pursue post-graduate studies or professional licensure in the Netherlands or the EU, we recommend checking your target institution's entry criteria.
Contact the Admissions Office to Find Out More
If you have more questions about the program, your application or other enrollment-related inquiries, contact our Admissions Office.
Call +31 71 5168000 or send an email to admissions@webster.nl