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The MSc in Applied Child Psychology at Nottingham Trent University offers a one-year in-depth exploration of psychological development in children and adolescents, with a focus on how theory and research inform practice in educational, clinical and social settings. It suits graduates who wish to specialise in working with young people, enhance their research skills and build foundations for roles or further training in child psychology.
Curriculum structure:
In the first phase you study modules like Child in Context, Social and Cognitive Development in Children, Research Skills for Working with Children, and Observational Methods, where you explore the developmental, social, and cognitive foundations of childhood, learn how to design and interpret child-focused research, and gain practical observational and analytical skills.
In the second phase you move into Developmental Profiles of Language and Learning, Psychological and Behavioural Difficulties in Childhood, Career Focus and Development, and Child Psychology Independent Research Project, where you examine atypical development, learning and behavioural issues, and undertake a substantial independent research project under supervision, integrating your knowledge and research methods in an applied children’s context.
Focus areas:
“child development; social and cognitive psychology of children; observational & research methods; atypical development and behavioural difficulties; independent research project”
Learning outcomes:
“critically evaluate psychological theories of child development; apply advanced research and observational methods to study children and young people; design and conduct independent empirical research in child-psychology contexts; communicate professional and research findings related to children’s development and wellbeing”
Professional alignment (accreditation):
This MSc is not accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) for GBC eligibility, but it provides strong preparatory foundations for careers working with children and/or for further applied psychology training or research roles.
Reputation (employability rankings):
Nottingham Trent University is ranked in the Top 150 globally for Psychology in the QS World University Subject Rankings 2025.
Graduates of the programme have pursued roles such as education mental health practitioners, assistant psychologists, research specialists, teachers, therapeutic support workers and learning support assistants.
Students develop practical skills through child-focused research and applied projects using NTU's specialist developmental facilities. They have access to the Children and Young People's Research Centre and dedicated child observation suites. This hands-on training is delivered through:
Applied Research Project: A dissertation focused on child development or applied child psychology
Child Observation: Practical experience in dedicated observation suites and naturalistic settings
Research Centre Links: Engagement with the Children and Young People's Research Centre
Professional Skills: Training in child-focused assessment and intervention techniques
Practical Methods: Development of child-friendly research and engagement methods
Graduates of Nottingham Trent University’s MSc Applied Child Psychology gain skills in psychological theory and research focused on children and adolescents, preparing them for careers in education, clinical, and social care settings. Typical job roles include therapist assistant, special needs teaching assistant, residential social care worker, and teaching assistant. This degree is ideal for those aiming to work with children or pursue doctoral training in educational psychology.
Key points include:
University services offer one-to-one career advice with subject specialists plus wider university career support
Employment rates are strong with graduates advancing in child-support and educational roles; typical salary ranges around £21,000–£25,000
Partnerships with schools, social care, and clinical organizations provide practical opportunities and networking
The program is recognized for critical research training and professional development supporting career progression
Graduates leave ready for roles in therapeutic support, social care, or educational psychology research
Further Academic Progression: Graduates can progress to doctoral training in educational or clinical psychology or pursue academic research through a PhD
You will need an undergraduate degree (minimum 2.1) in Psychology, or an allied discipline (supported by relevant experience of working with children) or other recognised equivalent qualification.India- If you have achieved grades of 50%+ from recognised universities in India, you could study a postgraduate taught course.USA- GPA 3.2 required for courses requiring the equivalent of a UK 2:1.IELTS 6.5 with minimum of 5.5 in each component.TOEFL- Overall score of 72 with at least 18 Reading, 17 Listening, 20 Speaking, 17 WritingAssistant Psychologist (in CAMHS)Child Wellbeing PractitionerResearch Assistant (Child Development)Family Support WorkerSpecial Educational Needs (SEN) Coordinator (with further training)Early Years ConsultantChild Mental Health Support WorkerPhD Researcher (Developmental Psychology)Play Therapist (with additional training)Youth Intervention Specialist
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Nottingham Trent University
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