Introduction:

This Applied Child Psychology Masters degree combines an in-depth look and critical evaluation of the advanced study of psychological development with regard to children and adolescents. You'll focus on the implications of psychological theory and research for policy and practice across a range of applied settings, for example, education, clinical and social contexts as well as undertake advanced training in relevant research methods.

This is an ideal course for anyone wanting a career that involves working with children or for those interested in securing a doctoral training place in educational psychology*.

*Further study and / or a BPS-accredited conversion course conferring Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership may be required.

Careers and employability

Students generally choose the MSc Applied Child Psychology because they wish to pursue a career working with children (as a teacher, support worker, and so on).

Many already work with children and complete the course in order to improve their prospects of promotion and career progression. Others see the qualification as a means of helping to secure a path to teacher training or a doctoral training place in educational psychology*. It is also possible to pursue an academic and / or research career in child / developmental psychology following graduation (by working as a research assistant or associate, for example, or by studying for a PhD).

Your qualification in psychology is likely to be popular with a whole range of potential employers because you will have demonstrated an ability to write essays and reports, to master advanced statistics and to talk and present in front of other people (amongst other transferable skills).

Careers and job application advice is available to all our postgraduate students and is provided on a one-to-one basis by a subject specialist within the Department, supported by the university wide careers service.

The job titles below give an indication of the careers our recent Psychology graduates are pursuing:

• Therapist assistant
• Residential social care worker
• Special Needs teaching assistant
• Teaching assistant.

What you’ll study

*We are currently reviewing the content of our courses to ensure that they remain relevant and current to out students’ future ambitions and society. Please continue to check this course webpage for the latest developments.

During the course you'll gain an in-depth understanding of the ethical and professional issues that are integral to working with children, adolescents and vulnerable people.

You will complete an extended essay on a relevant topic of your choice and an empirical research project, both under the supervision of a research active member of staff.

• Child in Context
• Social and Cognitive Development in Children
• Research Skills for Working with Children
• Observational Methods
• Developmental Profiles of Language and Learning
• Psychological and Behavioural Difficulties in Childhood
• Career Focus and Development
• Child Psychology Independent Research Project