MSc Family and Child Psychology Psychology
This exciting and innovative postgraduate course is focused on the study of the psychology of children and families in our modern, multicultural and diverse society. Our course is designed to give you an in-depth and critical understanding of classic, contemporary and applied issues within the areas of child and adolescent development, family structure, functioning and transition, and the role of the family within wider culture and society. You will also learn about modern issues and debates in areas related to neurodiversity, mental health, social deprivation and abuse and neglect.
Our tutors are experts in their field and will draw on current psycho-social approaches and research to inform your understanding of development and change at individual, familial and societal levels. During the course you will also learn about the implications that such change can have in terms of psychological, social and educational policy and on the interventions that may be required when children and families reach crisis.
The programme is aimed at graduates from the social sciences in the UK and overseas who wish to develop their conceptual understanding of families and child development. It is also aimed at early and mid-career professionals working in the fields of health, education, social welfare and social policy. Finally, if you wish to develop skills in research methodologies and undertake applied research, then this course is for you. Our course consists of a diverse and multicultural cohort of students which makes for a dynamic and stimulating learning environment.
Course structure and assessment
This course is structured on a term basis and can be completed full time (over one year) or part time (over two years). Full time, you will complete two modules in each of the first three terms and an independent research dissertation across all four terms. Part time, three modules will be completed across the first three terms of the first year, with three modules and a research dissertation across the four terms of the second year.
Term 1
In the Researching Thought and Behaviour module you will learn about the research and analytical methods that you need to study psychology. You will receive expert teaching and training in both quantitative statistics and qualitative research methods. In Child and Adolescent Development, you will critically evaluate and apply both classic and contemporary theoretical approaches to development in a real-life context whilst also developing your abilities in reflective practice.
Term 2
In Advanced Skills for Research and Practice you will gain expert training in the successful management and completion of research projects in professional and applied settings. Within Child and Adolescent Mental Health and Neuro-Developmental Disorders you will consider the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of a range of disorders within the family context. You will learn about the contribution of psychological research to intervention and treatment, as well as developing awareness of relevant ethical and professional issues.
Term 3
In Family Psychology in Society, you will learn about current research and theory relating to the complex issues surrounding childcare, child protection and abuse, domestic abuse and the impact of deprivation. This module will also focus on key policies and legislation in these areas as well as your ability to communicate information to appropriate audiences. Family Lifestyle and Transition focuses upon the changing family unit, and the adjustment of family members to transitions within the life cycle. You will examine issues such as contemporary family systems theories, diverse family units, and separation and divorce.
During Term 1, you will begin working with one of our supervisors on your own independent research project. This will allow you to develop your knowledge and expertise in an area that particularly interests you, involving both the collection and analysis of data. Work on your research project will continue across terms 2 and 3, with Term 4 dedicated to the write up and dissemination of this research.
Methods of assessment
You will complete a diverse range of assessments to demonstrate and consolidate your learning and to enhance your employability. Examples include qualitative and quantitative written reports, oral presentations, dissemination and review exercises, case studies and reflective writing. You will work independently and with your peers as part of a group. Several of our assignments allow students a choose of topics to tailor the content towards their own interests and career ambitions.
Entry Requirements
Our course is open to students with an undergraduate honours’ degree in psychology of 2.2 or above. Candidates with degrees in other relevant social sciences, and/or experience in relevant fields are also encouraged to apply, and we will review suitability for entry to the course on an individual basis.
