The MSc in Child Development is designed to prepare psychology graduates for the next stage of their career in research or applied areas of psychology.
Keele has a vibrant, well-established and ever-expanding community of researchers in child development. Students will benefit from their expertise across a wide range of areas including child social development (e.g. bullying and peer relationships), child cognitive development (e.g. theory of mind, attention in autism and ADHD) and education (e.g. girls and
science and enhancing collaborative learning in the classroom). MSc students are made to feel part of this research culture both through the formal modules and through involvement in research seminars and meetings.
Students become members of the new Children and Young People’s Research Network through which the teaching of the advanced study module is delivered.
The programme provides taught content and research training in a range of areas in Child Development, building on areas of staff research expertise. Strengths include: children’s peer relationships, e.g. bullying in schools, teenage relationship abuse; eye movements in children with autism and ADHD; children’s face recognition; interrogative interviewing of vulnerable child witnesses; children’s use of humour; social influences on learning, such as how teachers use feedback in the classroom; how to promote collaborative learning; factors that influence children’s subject choices, e.g. girls and science; children’s musical development and engagement; and parenting, e.g. interactions at family mealtimes.
We have well-established links with local schools and have created research partnerships where students come to the university to experience learning in a university setting as well as allowing our students to gain valuable experience working and collecting data in a school setting. We also run the project White Water Writers which gives groups of young people the chance to write and publish their own full length novel in a week. We work with local primary, secondary, SEN and other youth groups such as with looked after children, and MSc students are given the opportunity to take the lead in running this project.
Our MSc Psychology programmes are designed to foster a vibrant and collaborative peer culture amongst our MSc students. Several of our modules are shared by all four of our MSc psychology programmes. We also know it’s vital that you develop the advanced specialised skills you will need to pursue careers in your chosen fields. Throughout your MSc degree you are supported and encouraged to focus your work to help you conduct in-depth explorations of your specialist subjects and personal interests.
You will undertake a double weighted Advanced Study module in MSc Child Development (30 Credits).
The teaching for this module is delivered through the new Children and Young People’s Research Network. The module aims to deepen students’ knowledge and understanding of key concepts, theories and research evidence on child development and to develop their critical awareness of current issues and new insights in this area of psychological research. There is a key focus on the ethical and practical issues associated with conducting research with children and young people. Topics can include: children’s humour, children and face perception, children and advertising, bullying in schools.
All MSc Psychology undertake the following core modules designed to help you engage with the pluralistic nature of psychology and understand the broader field within which your specialised interest sits:
In addition to the core modules all students can tailor their research methods training to suit their needs and interests by choosing one of the following option modules:
Research is a key emphasis in our programmes and you will be supported by a specialist tutor in your chosen field to undertake original research as part of the Research Preparation (15 credits) and Dissertation (60 credits) modules.
The course is of one year duration for full time and two years for part-time.
The course is assessed through written coursework, unseen examination, verbal presentation of research, and independent research written up as a dissertation.
Apart from additional costs for text books, inter-library loans and potential overdue library fines we do not anticipate any additional costs for this postgraduate programme. Limited support is available for research-related expenses.
There are substantial scholarships available, please see this link: http://www.keele.ac.uk/studentfunding/bursariesscholarships/internationalfunding/postgraduate/
or
http://www.keele.ac.uk/studentfunding/bursariesscholarships/
31st May 2018
This distance learning programme in Social, Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties (SEBD) aims to develop professional practice in educational settings. If you work with children and young people who exhibit challenging behaviour, disaffection and disengagement with schooling, then it will be relevant to you.
Professional Development is increasingly important in the career development of all professionals within Education and Children’s Services in general. This distance education course will provide you with an increased knowledge/and understanding of Social, Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties (SEBD) and it is particularly suited to teachers, care workers, mentors, youth workers and learning support assistants working in primary, secondary, further education and specialist settings.
The programme uses the National College for Teaching and Leadership competencies for core and expert standards for working with pupils experiencing social, emotional and behavioural difficulties (SEBD). From these standards the programme provides a wider context for knowledge and understanding of SEBD, the development of skills and expertise in meeting these pupils’ needs, and professional experience upon which to promote good practice.
SEBD Core Modules
Each student has a personal tutor in a regional tutor group. Study is supported through study packs, tutorial groups, web based learning, online materials, telephone and email contact which allows students to learn with each other. Internet access is required for the programme. There is a university based study-weekend twice a year.
The Social, Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties programme is ideal for those working in settings which provide education for children and young people with SEBD. It is particularly suited to teachers, care workers, mentors, youth workers and learning support assistants working in primary, secondary, further education and specialist settings. Upon completion of this course, you will have experience in dealing with pupils with challenging behaviour within educational settings.
There is the opportunity to work towards a further professional qualification in the field of Education both within schools and in other settings, including progression to a PhD or EdD. The excellent careers advice provided by personal tutors has encouraged many of our graduates to successfully apply for leadership roles working with children with social, emotional and behavioural difficulties. These include: specialist teachers, education advisors, special educational needs coordinators, teaching assistants, youth workers, behaviour managers and counsellors.
This course looks at research in child psychology, focusing on the advanced study of psychological development in children and the implications of psychological theory and research for policy and practice. It is ideal if you would like to start or promote a career working with children in areas such as teaching and social work; it also provides an excellent foundation for pursuing a research career in child/developmental psychology.
Taught by researchers active in the field of child psychology, this MSc has a strong research focus, and you will be encouraged to approach empirical research critically. You will study four, year-long, 30-credit modules, including three core modules and one option module, plus a 60-credit dissertation.
You will be introduced to the theories of child psychology, considering them in relation to the real world, and will cover the empirical research and theories of developmental psychology, focusing on implications for policy and practice. You will also study the application of developmental psychology to social policy, such as social issues, education and school issues and health, and the factors influencing the development of children's relationships. You will consider both typical and atypical development, including a range of developmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorders, dyslexia, etc. Your dissertation enables you to study an area of interest in depth and gain valuable research skills.
Essays, in-class tests, presentations, unseen examinations, laboratory reports and dissertation.
Please note that this is an indicative list of modules and is not intended as a definitive list.
Core modules
Optional modules to be confirmed.
Learn to develop and manage inclusive provision for learners with autistic spectrum disorders on this flexible Advanced Educational Practice: Autism Masters course from Liverpool John Moores University.
•Study part time over three years on a course designed to support effective practice in the school
•Develop your professional practice through an inquiry based approach
•Enjoy flexible course delivery and fit studying around your work commitments
•Follow a curriculum closely linked to your professional practice needs
We recognise that our students are busy professionals and have taken this into account in the design of our programmes and assessments. Study on this programme is on a part time basis which allows you to integrate your learning with your full time professional role.
The course is delivered around school/college term times, with 20 credits being studied per term for the first two years.
During your first year you will study three compulsory (core) modules specialising in key teaching and learning themes. Your second year will involve selection of two optional modules from an identified suite, and the core module in Researching Professional Practice. Your final year will involve 60 credits of research-based study through completion of the Dissertation or Professional Enquiry modules. University-based study includes taught sessions scheduled late afternoon (4pm to 7pm) and occasional conference style days scheduled on Saturdays.
A blended learning approach ensures you can usually study at a time to suit you and all modules are supported by online study resources with additional guidance available through face-to-face or virtual tutorials.
To keep on top of your study, you should be prepared to work between five and 10 hours per week (evenings and weekends). The practical applications of the course will involve the integration of study with your professional activity in school or college.
During your studies you will have access to LJMU learning resources including our libraries for independent study. You will be allocated a personal tutor to support your academic and professional development and will also receive guidance via email.
Taught sessions mostly take place at the IM Marsh campus, four miles outside Liverpool centre, although some sessions may take place in the city. The IM Marsh campus has independent study spaces with IT facilities, a library with relevant stock and study spaces, access to student welfare and support, a gym and other sports facilities, a cafeteria and shop. The campus library, open 8am to 11pm, houses the main collections linked to this course and you will also have access to the 24 hour, city centre Aldham Robarts and Avril Robarts libraries.
Please see guidance below on core and option modules for further information on what you will study.
Year 1
The Autistic Spectrum (core)
Investigates current research relating to the features of the Autistic Spectrum and explore its implications for practice.
Autistic Spectrum Disorder: from Theory to Practice (core)
Considers current research regarding the causal theories of Autistic Spectrum Disorder and develops deeper understanding of effective support techniques and interventions used nationally and internationally.
Autistic Spectrum Disorder in the Mainstream Context (core)
Develops critical professional practice in supporting learners with ASD through analysis of and engagement with current educational theory, research, policy and practice and its implications for your professional setting.
Year 2
Researching Professional Practice (core)
Provides an introduction to a range of research methods applicable to educational contexts, with a focus on practitioner enquiry, and how to develop a research project proposal and plan.
Teaching Young People with Special Educational Needs (option)
Develops understanding of special educational needs and disability through engagement with current theory, research, policy and practice and their application in your professional setting.
Social, Emotional and Mental Health Difficulties (option)
Explores current educational theory, research and policy relating to SEMHD implications for professional settings.
Specific Learning Difficulties (option)
Investigates current educational theory, research and policy relating to ADHD, Dyslexia and Dyspraxia and the implications for professional practice.
Identifying Dyslexia (option)
Develops knowledge and understanding of the characteristics, complex nature and issues related to the identification of dyslexia
Teac hing Learners with Dyslexia (option)
Investigates recent research relating to the teaching of learners with dyslexia and the implications for critical professional practice.
Year 3
Dissertation (option)
Involves the development and implementation of a major research project relevant to your subject area, with the support of an experienced academic tutor.
Professional Inquiry (option)
Involves the development and implementation of several linked, practice-based research projects relevant to professional practice in your subject area with the support of an experienced academic tutor.
Further guidance on modules The information listed in the section entitled ‘What you will study’ is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal Academic Framework review, so may be subject to change. Students will be required to undertake modules that the University designates as core and will have a choice of designated option modules. Additionally, option modules may be offered subject to meeting minimum student numbers. Please email [email protected] if you require further guidance or clarification
Are you interested in the relationship between the brain and behaviour? As a neuropsychologist, you will study psychological functions such as perception, memory, language, attention, emotion and motor skills.
This includes:
Disorders can be caused by a wide range of aetiologies, such as an accident, a stroke, neural degeneration (Alzheimer’s, Wernicke-Korsakov syndrome), or developmental defects (dyslexia, ADHD, autism).
The lecturers at the Neuropsychology Master’s programme all work in clinical practice and/or conduct state-of-the-art cognitive research at Utrecht University. This integration of science and practice feeds the Master’s programme’s educational activities.
In this Master’s programme, you will learn how to work together with other behavioural and medical professionals. Our lecturers often have different specialist backgrounds, and you will experience the same multidisciplinary atmosphere in your internship as well.
The Neuropsychology Master’s programme is limited to a maximum of 65 admissions for the academic year. This means that no more than 65 candidates will be permitted to participate.
In the Neuropsychology Master’s programme, you will learn the knowledge and skills needed to assess and treat cognitive disorders resulting from brain dysfunction. You will develop into an academic professional, who can apply the latest scientific models of functions such as perception, memory and attention in clinical practice or to innovate assessment and treatment.
Depending on your previous education, after completing this Master’s programme, you can continue your studies and:
This MSc in Children's Psychological Disorders will equip you with a thorough theoretical understanding of the psychological factors that cause and maintain emotional and behavioural problems in children.
Taught by leading international experts, you will discover and research how mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism and aggression emerge in childhood. You will also gain an in-depth knowledge of how these conditions can best be assessed; enabling you to subsequently inform intervention and advise the best course of treatment.
Located at our dedicated Centre for Human Development Science (CUCHDS), this programme will also equip you with the skills, knowledge and experience to pursue a rewarding career in child neuro – development, clinical child psychology or educational psychology.
You will undergo a range of professional training in emotional, cognitive and neurodevelopmental assessments for children, classification systems of childhood disorders and in observational coding of child behaviour and parent-child interaction.
Research training also forms a key focus of this programme, and it is designed to strengthen your credentials for entry to a PhD in developmental psychopathology, or to doctoral training programmes in Clinical or Educational Psychology.
In addition to providing training in basic research, the course aims to integrate research perspectives from clinical and educational psychology.
The course is designed for practitioners from Health, Education, Social Care and Voluntary care services with some experience of working with children and adolescents. Students need to be a practitioner in relevant area of practice such as education or health and social care. You may have completed a core professional qualification i.e. nursing, social work, occupational therapy, health visiting, or school nursing and wish to advance your knowledge, although this is not essential.
The course is studied over three years with two pathways in your final year of study; a full research pathway or a taught research pathway. Teaching will involve a broad range of teaching methods including role play and experiential learning, structured reflection, seminar presentations, small group work and video assisted learning.
You will need to have access to working with children and/ or young people and families throughout the course and you will need support for study leave from your line manager to attend scheduled teaching sessions.
Course leader Sharon Pagett has 15 years clinical experience within CAMH. Sharon’s professional background is mental health nursing and she has a range of clinical experience within CAMH services within Day Units and community services. Sharon has led the University’s Graduate Diploma in CAMH for 15 years, which was commissioned by the NHS. This course has consistently evaluated well since its inception. Members of the teaching team also have a range of clinical experience within CAMH services; Simon Baverstock has experience within in-patient child and adolescent inpatient services and violence reduction. He has an MSc in Personality Disorder and has interests in emerging personality disorder, trauma and mindfulness-based interventions.
Dr Karen Whittaker (Reader in Child and Family Health) leads the Child and Family Health research theme group referred to as SEaRCCH, (Supporting Evaluation and Research in Child and Community Health) within the School of Nursing. She is an Institute of Health Visiting Fellow and Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. Karen’s professional background is in nursing and health visiting, previously practicing as a health visitor in the city of Salford and later in Lancashire. Her own doctorate and post-doctorate research has involved the application of realist evaluation methods to examine parenting and family support.
The course will develop students’ knowledge in the area of child and adolescent mental health, developing skills that are transferrable in a range of settings from social care to education and also within a range of health services specific to children and adolescents. With the emphasis on early intervention and raising awareness of mental health issues in children and young people, the range of settings where this award could be used is constantly developing.
Modules within the course look at a range of areas such as issues around attachment, normal childhood development, parenting and trauma informed care. Areas specifically related to children and young people’s mental health are considered in depth from assessment to interventions, covering specific areas of concern such as ADHD, ASD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, self-harm and emergent personality disorder.
