Introduction to Structural Equation Modeling using Mplus

e offer a five-day course on how to perform basic SEM analyses using Mplus. The main objective of this course is to learn how to analyse several models with Mplus (e.g., path models, multiple group models, mediation and moderation, confirmatory factor analysis, and longitudinal models). No previous knowledge of Mplus is assumed, but prior knowledge of SEM, although not mandatory, will make this course more useful.

Many researchers in the social and behavioral sciences are using, or want to use, Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) to investigate their theories. Mplus is a popular and flexible software package for doing SEM. We offer a 5-day course on how to perform basic SEM analyses using Mplus, where you can interact with Mplus experts.

The course starts with an introduction on how to use Mplus to perform regression analysis and how to ‘communicate’ with Mplus (e.g., how to specify a model, and how to deal with error messages). In the following days, basic models relevant for social scientists will be discussed, including multiple group models, confirmatory factor analysis, and cross-lagged panel models, and important topics such as moderation, mediation and testing for measurement invariance are covered. These days consist of lectures by Mplus experts and computer labs where participants practice with Mplus. On the last day, participants can meet with Mplus experts for individual consultation, and work on their own data.

Target audience

Participants (Research Master Students, PhD students, or post-graduate researchers) from a variety of fields, including sociology, psychology, education, human development, marketing, business, biology, medicine, political science, and communication sciences may benefit from the course.

A maximum of 80 participants will be allowed in this course.

Learning objectives

The main objective of the course is to acquire a basic understanding of how to use Mplus for SEM as applied in the social and behavioral sciences. Moreover, participants will learn how to analyse datasets with Mplus, to interpret the output and to report the results.

This course will be part of the Utrecht Summer School 2023. Please visit the Summer School website to learn more about the topics, assessment, course aim, study load and application procedure.

Do you live in the Province of Utrecht, the Amersfoort region, or Gooi and Vechtstreek region? If so, you may be eligible for a training voucher worth up to €5,000. With this voucher, you can receive reimbursement for (a large part of) the costs of a course or training programme. Check the conditions, see whether you qualify, and read more about the application procedure on the training voucher page.