In this unique programme you will acquire theoretical knowledge and methodological skills that enable you to understand the human dimension of environmental and energy-related problems. The programme focuses on the relationships between humans and the built and natural environment, and the human dimension of environmental and energy problems. After completing the programme, you will be able to develop theory-based strategies to promote environmental quality. You will learn to work in interdisciplinary settings and apply the acquired knowledge in practice. You will be challenged to critically reflect on scientific knowledge and you will be offered possibilities to join ongoing research projects with other universities, governmental organisations, companies, and industry.

The role of social science in understanding and tackling environmental and energy-related problems is key and emphasized in the leading journals Nature, Nature Climate Change and Nature Energy. Governments, industries, and companies want to understand the human dimension of sustainable development. For example, sustainable solutions such as electric cars or wind parks will not be successful if they are not accepted and adopted by the public. As an environmental psychologist, you will develop knowledge about which factors influence people’s environmental attitudes and behaviours, as well as public acceptability of energy sources, systems, and policies. This knowledge and expertise will equip you for job opportunities that focus on finding effective and societally acceptable solutions for environmental and energy-related problems.

The Environmental psychology group at the University of Groningen is a world leader in the field. For example, the group organised the 11th International Conference in Environmental Psychology, and coordinates the European Platform for Energy Research in the Socio-Economic Nexus (PERSON). The group is involved in many research projects where we collaborate with other disciplines, practitioners, and experts in various countries. Linda Steg, the head of the group, is selected as a Web of Science Highly Cited Researcher in 2014 and 2016, a list representing world’s most influential scientific minds.