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The MSc Child Development at University College London (UCL) focuses on understanding the social, emotional, and cognitive development of children from infancy through adolescence. It suits graduates aiming for careers in education, child psychology, research, or policy related to child welfare and learning.
Curriculum Structure:
Year 1 (Full-time):
Students explore key modules such as Cognitive Development, Social and Emotional Development, and Research Methods in Developmental Psychology. The course combines theoretical knowledge with empirical research, enabling students to analyse developmental processes in real-world settings. The Empirical Research Project allows them to design and conduct original research on topics such as language acquisition, social behaviour, or early learning experiences.
Focus Areas: "Child development, learning, emotional wellbeing, developmental research"
Learning Outcomes: "Students gain expertise in developmental theories, research methodology, and practical application of psychology to support children’s growth and learning."
Professional Alignment (Accreditation): Delivered by UCL’s Department of Psychology and Human Development, aligned with British Psychological Society (BPS) standards.
Reputation (Employability Rankings): UCL is ranked among the world’s top 10 universities (QS) and is internationally recognised for excellence in psychology and education.
This programme focuses on applying advanced research methods to understand human cognition and decision-making through hands-on experimental work. Students develop practical skills in experimental design and data analysis using UCL's world-class research facilities. This applied approach is delivered through:
UCL's Experimental Psychology Labs: Access to specialised research facilities including eye-tracking laboratories, behavioural testing suites, and neuroimaging resources.
Research Methods Training: Practical hands-on training in experimental design, computational modelling, and statistical analysis using programming tools like Python, R, and cognitive modelling software.
Substantial Research Project: A major research dissertation where students design and conduct original experimental research in cognitive science or decision-making.
Institute Collaboration: Direct engagement with cutting-edge research through UCL's Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience and Centre for Computational Statistics and Machine Learning
Graduates of University College London’s MSc Child Development acquire expert knowledge in psychological theories and research on child growth, learning, and wellbeing, preparing for impactful research and professional careers. They move into roles such as Assistant Psychologist, Child Development Specialist, Social Science Researcher, and Education Officer:
UCL’s Careers Service and Institute of Education offer tailored employability support, access to internships, employer engagement events, and direct links to health, education, and social care organisations for practical placements.
Employment rates are excellent: 100% of graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months, and typical starting salaries range from £31,000–£35,000, with strong progression into educational, health, and research sectors.
University-industry partnerships include collaborations with NHS Child Development Centres, schools, and charities, supporting clinical placements and applied research.
UCL’s internationally recognised Department of Psychology and Institute of Education ensure long-term professional credibility across policy, health, and educational spheres.
Graduates make significant contributions to policy reform, child health, and educational practice throughout the UK and internationally.
Further Academic Progression: Graduates may pursue a PhD or professional doctorate research in developmental or educational psychology at UCL or other leading universities. Career advancement is also possible through specialist training, such as Clinical and Educational Psychology, or by entering advanced professional roles in healthcare, child advocacy, or research.
A minimum of a second-class Bachelor's degree in psychology from a UK university,India- A Bachelor's degree with a minimum overall CGPA of 6.5/10, 5.5/8.0, 5.0/7.0, 3.5/6.0, 2.7/4.0 or 55% where a GPA scale is not used.USA- Bachelor's degree with a final CGPA of 3.0/4.0IELTS- : Overall score of 7.5 and a minimum of 7.0 in each componentTOEFL: : Overall score of 109 with 27/30 in reading and writing and 23/30 in speaking and listening.Child Development ResearcherFamily Policy AnalystEarly Years ConsultantEducational Psychologist (with further training)Child and Adolescent Wellbeing SpecialistParenting Programme CoordinatorDevelopmental Science Writer
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University College London
