MSc Clinical & Developmental Neuropsychology

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Bournemouth University

Program Overview

The MSc Clinical & Developmental Neuropsychology at Bournemouth University explores how the human brain changes across the lifespan—from childhood development through ageing and neurodegenerative disorders—and how these changes affect cognition and behaviour. It is suited for students aiming to build a career in neuropsychological research, clinical practice, or neurodevelopmental assessment and intervention.

Curriculum structure:
Over a one-year full-time (or part-time) programme, students immerse themselves in modules that blend clinical theory, developmental neuroscience, and research training. In the Clinical & Cognitive Neuropsychology unit, they study neuropsychological assessment, brain injury, and cognitive rehabilitation. The module Neurodevelopmental Diversity covers neural and cognitive development issues in conditions like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. Through Ageing & Neurodegenerative Disorders, students examine disorders such as dementia and learn how ageing impacts brain structure and function. Alongside, Advanced Research Methods and Advanced Statistics provide in-depth training in research design, data analysis, and scientific writing. The programme culminates in a Research Project (Dissertation) that allows students to conduct original empirical neuropsychological research.

Focus areas:
“neurodevelopmental disorders; brain injury & rehabilitation; cognitive neuroscience across lifespan; ageing and dementia; neuropsychological assessment; research methods”

Learning outcomes:
Students develop advanced understanding of developmental and clinical neuropsychology, gain competence in neuropsychological assessment, apply statistical and methodological expertise in research, and produce a substantive dissertation that contributes to neuropsychological science.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
While the MSc provides specialist neuropsychological training and professional-relevant skills, it is primarily academic and does not by itself confer clinical psychologist registration.

Reputation (employability rankings):
Bournemouth University’s neuropsychology programme is taught by research-active staff and offers placement opportunities with health and educational institutions, making graduates competitive for roles in clinical services, education, and research.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students develop practical neuropsychological assessment skills through hands-on clinical testing and research projects. They utilise the Department of Psychology's specialist facilities including neuropsychological testing equipment and developmental research laboratories. The programme's experiential components include:

Clinical Assessment: Training in neuropsychological testing and diagnostic tools
Research Project: A dissertation in clinical or developmental neuropsychology
Neuropsychology Laboratories: Access to specialist assessment equipment
Developmental Focus: Practical experience with child and adolescent assessment methods
Clinical Applications: Training in evidence-based neuropsychological rehabilitation approaches

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Bournemouth University’s MSc Clinical & Developmental Neuropsychology typically pursue careers as Clinical Neuropsychologists, Research Assistants, Neurological Rehabilitation Specialists, or Educational Psychologists. The program combines research, clinical skills, and placement opportunities to prepare students for healthcare and academic roles.

University support includes career coaching, clinical placements, and applied research projects.
Around 85-90% of graduates gain employment or further study within 6-12 months, with salaries ranging from £25,000 to £40,000 based on role and experience.
Partnerships with hospitals, neurological clinics, and educational bodies enable practical training.
The course is designed to help students qualify for clinical practice and research careers in neuropsychology.
Graduates develop expertise in assessment, diagnosis, and intervention for neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative conditions.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates often pursue PhD research or clinical training in neuropsychology to attain chartered psychologist status and work in clinical or academic settings.