Applied Paediatric Neuropsychology MSc

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University College London

Program Overview

The MSc Applied Paediatric Neuropsychology at UCL teaches students the science and clinical methods required to understand brain–behaviour relationships in children. It suits psychology graduates who want to work in neuropsychological research or building a foundation for clinical training in developmental neuropsychology.

Curriculum Structure:
Over the one-year full-time course, students begin with Introduction to Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience, Professional Issues for Paediatric Neuropsychologists, and Development of the Sensory, Motor & Cognitive Neural Systems—learning the neurodevelopmental basis of cognition, ethical practice in paediatric settings, and the trajectory of sensory and motor system maturation. In the middle of the year, they study Developmental Disorders & Neuropsychological Profiles and Infant & Neurodevelopmental Assessment, applying their neuroscience knowledge to understand assessment in neurodevelopmental conditions, while Assessment of Neuropsychological Disorders & Their Functional Implications teaches them to interpret clinical presentations. In the final term, they take Advanced Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience to explore the latest research methods and theory, and Developing Clinical Formulations & Interventions to translate assessment into practical, evidence-informed intervention strategies, before completing a Paediatric Neuropsychology Research Project.

Focus areas: “Child brain–behaviour relationships; developmental assessment; neurodevelopmental disorders; clinical formulation; research methods.”
Learning outcomes: “Integrate developmental neuroscience theory, assess neuropsychological function in children, design clinically informed interventions, and conduct independent research.”
Professional alignment (accreditation): Aligned with BPS Division of Neuropsychology syllabus for knowledge dimension in clinical neuropsychology training.
Reputation (employability & rankings): UCL is ranked #9 globally by QS for 2026, and graduates have progressed into roles in NHS, GOSH, and academic research.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This programme focuses on applying behavioural science theories to real-world challenges through practical projects and hands-on research. Students develop intervention design and evaluation skills using UCL's specialist labs and research centres. This applied approach is delivered through:

UCL's Behavioural Research Labs: Access to the Bridget Dolan Laboratory and other experimental facilities for designing and testing behavioural interventions.
Industry and Policy Projects: Opportunities to work on live briefs with external partners through the UCL Centre for Behaviour Change.
Substantial Research Project: A major dissertation where students design, implement, and evaluate a full behaviour change intervention.
Practical Workshops: Hands-on training in qualitative and quantitative research methods, including data analysis software like R and SPSS.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Applied Paediatric Neuropsychology MSc at UCL gain specialized skills to work with children experiencing neurodevelopmental and neurological disorders, pursuing roles in clinical, educational, and research settings. Typical job roles include Assistant Psychologist (Neuropsychology), Research Assistant, NHS Practitioner, and Child Brain Injury Specialist.

Key points:

UCL offers strong employability support: students receive personalized career guidance, access to UCL’s exclusive NHS and clinic-linked internships, and mentorship from renowned neuropsychology experts and Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) clinicians.
Employment stats show many graduates secure roles in NHS neuropsychology services, child research organizations, or charities; typical starting salaries range from £25,000 to £35,000 depending on role and experience.
Industry partnerships include joint research and training with Great Ormond Street Hospital, National Autistic Society, and Child Brain Injury Trust, offering practical experience and career connections.
The program closely follows the British Psychological Society Division of Neuropsychology syllabus, ensuring long-term professional value and eligibility for formal neuropsychology training.
Graduates are well prepared for advanced research, clinical service roles, or doctoral training in child clinical, educational, or neuropsychology.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates can pursue Doctorate-level study (PhD, DClinPsych, DEdPsych) or UK clinical neuropsychology qualifications for specialist roles