Faculty profile
A critical reflection on society and human behaviour and how they interrelate
The Faculty of Social & Behavioural Sciences is known as a leader in education and research in the social and behavioural sciences.
Its focus is on the disciplines of interdisciplinary social sciences, cultural anthropology, educational sciences, pedagogy, psychology and sociology. We use this expertise to contribute to the education of talented young students in a wide array of degree programmes, and to increased understanding of a range of issues relating to human behaviour and society. To achieve this we frequently work together with social organisations.
The faculty has around 900 employees and about 6000 students.
Research
Our research takes place within the 12 departments of the faculty that are part of the research areas of psychology, sociology, cultural anthropology, pedagogy, educational sciences, interdisciplinary social sciences and methodology & statistics.
Youth
The Faculty of Social Sciences is the lead agency for the university's strategic theme Dynamics of Youth. Within this theme, we are engaged in research on youth development.
Big data
The faculty is also the leader of the university focus area Applied Data Science in which the use of big data in research plays an important role (the website is only available in English).
Open societies
Finally, the faculty participates in another university strategic theme Institutions for Open Societies. Here we conduct research on institutions, (in)formal rules of human action, sustainable prosperity, equality and democracy.
Education
We offer students a challenging academic environment with interactive education and effective support and supervision. Current issues in society and science play a key role in that education. Students are given the room they need to develop their talents to the full and to prepare for a career in research or elsewhere.
Many of the programmes are international leaders in their field and receive excellent ratings from specialist educational and scientific organisations (e.g. Keuzegids, Elsevier and KNAW/NVAO). Our Honours College provides an additional challenge during undergraduate studies.
Cooperation
The Faculty of Social & Behavioural Sciences is at the heart of society. We work in countless ways with businesses, organisations and government and tailor our teaching and research to reflect developments in the world around us.
Faculty Strategic Plan
Read the Faculty Strategic Plan 2025.