1. University of Leeds
  2. Program
  3. Masters
  4. MSc Cognitive Development and Disorders

MSc Cognitive Development and Disorders

12 Months On Campus Masters Program

University of Leeds

Program Overview

The MSc Cognitive Development and Disorders at the University of Leeds explores how cognitive functions develop and how they are affected by disorders across the lifespan. It is ideal for graduates in psychology or related fields who want to understand typical and atypical cognitive development and pursue careers in research or clinical practice.

Curriculum Structure:
In the first phase, students study key modules such as Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience, Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience, and Methods in Cognitive Neuroscience, which provide a strong grounding in brain-behaviour relationships. Later, advanced modules like Cognitive Disorders and Advanced Statistics for Psychology deepen understanding of neurological and developmental conditions such as dyslexia and autism. The program concludes with a Research Dissertation, allowing students to investigate cognitive development or disorder-related topics under expert supervision.

Focus areas: "Cognitive neuroscience, developmental psychology, neurodevelopmental disorders, brain-behaviour relationships"

Learning outcomes: "Students will gain skills in cognitive research methods, data analysis, and the scientific understanding of typical and atypical brain development."

Professional alignment (accreditation): The program provides research training aligned with British Psychological Society (BPS) standards, preparing students for further academic or clinical pathways.

Reputation (employability rankings): The University of Glasgow is consistently ranked among the UK’s top universities (QS, Guardian) for psychology and neuroscience research excellence and graduate employability.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students on the University of Glasgow's MSc in Cognitive Development and Disorders gain hands-on research skills through direct work with specialised child development labs and clinical populations. They have access to the Centre for Developmental Science and its facilities, including eye-trackers and the Babylab. This practical experience is delivered through key components:

  • Software & Tools: Training in E-Prime and PsychoPy for experiment design, SPSS for statistics, and specialist equipment like eye-trackers.

  • Research Projects: A core independent research dissertation, often involving data collection with children or clinical groups.

  • Specialist Laboratories: Direct access to the Glasgow Child Development Lab and the Babylab for infant studies.

  • Clinical Engagement: Visits to and lectures from NHS clinicians, providing insight into real-world assessment and diagnosis of developmental disorders.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Cognitive Development and Disorders develop expertise in cognitive functioning and developmental disorders across the lifespan, equipping them for careers in clinical research, healthcare, and education. Typical roles include Clinical Neuropsychologist Assistant, Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapist, Research Assistant, and Specialist Support Worker. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills relevant to neurological and cognitive disorders:

  • Career support includes tailored employability workshops, CV and interview coaching, and access to healthcare and research sector employer networks.

  • Graduates show strong employability with starting salaries typically ranging from £27,000 to £35,000.

  • Partnerships with NHS trusts, clinical neuropsychology centers, and research institutes provide placements and hands-on learning opportunities.

  • The program’s clinical and research training offers strong long-term professional and academic value.

  • Graduation outcomes include senior clinical and research roles and pathways into specialized neuropsychology training.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can pursue doctoral research, clinical neuropsychology doctorates, or specialized postgraduate training in neurological and cognitive disorders.

Program Key Stats

£33,500 (Annual cost)
Sept Intake : 31st Jul


No
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

3
3 or 4 Years

N/A
N/A
N/A
6.5
88
2:1

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • PhD Researcher (Developmental Disorders)
  • Assistant Psychologist (NHS Child Services)
  • Research Assistant (University/Autism Centre)
  • Specialist Speech and Language Therapy Support
  • Educational Psychologist (with further training)
  • Child Development Specialist (Charity Sector)

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