Clinical Neuropsychology

Specialisation of: Psychology
Degree: Master of Science in Psychology
Mode of Study: Full-time
Duration: 1 year
Start date: September and February
Language of instruction: English
Location: Leiden
Croho/isat code: 60395
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The master’s specialisation in Clinical Neuropsychology provides a theoretical background and practical training in neuropsychology and (clinical) neuropsychological research.

There is increasing recognition of the role neuropsychologists play in the management of brain diseases. The demand for their services is becoming greater as the population ages and medical (neuro)technology advances. Neuropsychologists assess and treat the cognitive, emotional and behavioural consequences of brain dysfunction.

Career

If you complete this master’s specialisation you are qualified for any position requiring an MSc in Psychology. You are also well equipped for general research positions and academic policy-making positions, in the following fields:

  • Health care and social assistance
  • Psychological advice organisations
  • Consultancy
  • Research companies and laboratories both in the private and the public sector

As a clinical neuropsychologists you typically work as part of a multidisciplinary team in neurological and psychiatric departments in:

  • Hospitals, including university hospitals
  • Research institutes
  • Rehabilitation centres
  • Nursing homes and private practices

Research/PhD

Are you interested in a scientific career and ready to start a PhD track in (clinical) neurosciences? In many cases it is possible to combine both scientific and clinical neuropsychological activities during a PhD track.

What our alumni say

Laura a’Campo, MSc

“I am conducting research on the effectiveness of a psychosocial education programme for patients and partners.”

“I have always been interested in the medical and psychological aspects of human beings. This is why I was so attracted to neuropsychology, which combines both these interests. I really enjoy neuropsychological theory, and during my internship at a psychogeriatric nursing home I had my first practical experience with treating patients and dealing with their families.

I now have a PhD position at the Leiden University Medical Center, in the Department of Neurology/Neuropsychology where I am conducting research on the effectiveness of a psychosocial education programme for patients and partners. Most of the patients I study are suffering from Parkinson’s or Huntington’s disease, but some also have other diseases. My job is particularly fulfilling and enjoyable because of the variety of patients I treat and because, as well as conducting research, I also have the opportunity to apply and learn about different psychosocial treatments. There are currently three master’s students involved in my research and I am their thesis supervisor.

What I most appreciated about my master’s was that it was very variable, from theory to testing and applying treatment skills in practice. It was an excellent preparation for this job, which has just the same kind of variable challenges.”