Masters Degrees (Applied Behaviour Analysis)

The MSc in Applied Behaviour Analysis is a highly interactive blended learning programme providing professionals from a wide range of backgrounds with scientifically validated expertise that is applicable to mainstream and special needs education, inclusion, curriculum, learning, and pedagogy. The programme includes a Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB®) approved course sequence (4th Edition Tasklist) (practice element not included).
This programme should be of interest to professionals wishing to become Board Certified Behavior Analysts, to those in the ‘helping’ professions (e.g. teachers, speech/language therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists) and students preparing for PhD studies.
The Centre for Behaviour Analysis is well connected both locally and internationally and unique project and employment opportunities arise on a regular basis.

What is Applied Behaviour Analysis?

"Applied Behavior Analysis is a well-developed discipline among the helping professions, with a mature body of scientific knowledge, established standards for evidence-based practice, distinct methods of service, recognized experience and educational requirements for practice, and identified sources of requisite education in universities." – Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB)
Behaviour Analysis is the science of behaviour. This means that we are interested in everything a person does, including what we feel (emotional behaviour) and think (cognitive behaviour). When this science is applied to enhance or develop socially relevant behaviours we call it Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). There are many applications, for example, to enhance or teach communication and language skills, social skills, reading and other academic skills, life skills, business or classroom management, and many more. In other words, ABA is utilised to help many people in many situations.
Due to the effectiveness of the intervention methods and teaching techniques based on ABA, the demand for behaviour analytic services has increased worldwide, not only for individuals with autism and other special educational needs, but also for application in the mainstream inclusive classroom and many other educational, clinical, or general life contexts.

BACB Recognition

Professionals who are Board Certified Behaviour Analysts (BCBA) have the skills and knowledge to develop, implement and evaluate quality interventions that help to produce positive behavioural changes in a range of settings. The six modules of the MSc ABA cover the required academic curriculum. The programme presently does not include BACB practice requirements, but we have many national and international affiliate organisations who welcome our students and offer placements (some are paid, some unpaid) and supervision (in person or online). Supervised practice requirements can be undertaken while you are studying on the MSc ABA.

Why ABA at Queen's?

◦As a prestigious Russell Group University, Queen’s is ranked 8th within the UK in relation to research intensity;
◦Education at Queen’s has been ranked 4th within the UK in relation to research intensity with 87% of the research undertaken within the School assessed as ‘internationally excellent or world leading’ (REF, 2014);
◦The programme includes an approved course sequence covering the complete BACB Tasklist (4th Edition) curriculum;
◦The programme offers an economically attractive option as online/blended delivery of the content allows UK/EU/international students to participate without relocating to Belfast;
◦Belfast is easily reached from mainland UK and Europe by a variety of low-cost airlines;
◦The on-campus workshops are timetabled on consecutive days for all the modules in a semester, thus reducing travel requirements;
◦The supervised practice element is not included, but contacts for placements can be provided;
◦An exit award is available. The PGDip (ABA) includes the BACB course sequence without the MSc dissertation

Aims

On successful completion of this programme students will be able to:
o demonstrate knowledge and understanding of any educational research, policy, practice and theory covered in the programme;
o analyse and apply critically examples of the research literature relating to the content of the programme;
o show evidence of reflection on their professional practice;
o demonstrate knowledge of a range of educational research methods;
o choose fit-for-purpose methods for a research project within the context of their own professional role;
o demonstrate engagement in the processes of research planning, data collection and analysis (as appropriate), and research reporting.

Programme Structure and Modules

Students may enrol on a full-time (1 year) or part-time (3 years) basis.
In order to be awarded the MSc ABA, students must successfully complete six taught modules (120 credits) and a dissertation (60 credits) as well as audit the Research Methods in Education online module. An exit qualification (PG Diploma ABA) is available. Students may exit with a Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Behaviour Analysis by successfully completing 120 credits from taught pathway modules.
The programme content is delivered online with multiple focused weekly virtual interactions that include peer- and tutor feedback. This structure allows for acquisition of knowledge, information sharing, development of critical thinking skills, and giving and receiving immediate feedback. An intensive on-campus 5-hour consolidation workshop takes place once during each module to give students the opportunity to meet each other and course tutors face-to-face.

Short Courses

We've made it easy to study for a Masters module as a short course. If you would like to study for one of the modules in the MSc ABA, please contact the Education Secretary (tel: +44 (0) 28 9097 5923/ 5032, [email protected]) for advice.

Modules

Assessment in Behaviour Analysis
Behaviour Change and Education
Concepts and Principles of Behaviour Analysis
Ethical and Professional Conduct
Evaluation in Behaviour Analysis
Fundamental Elements of Behaviour Change
Research Methods (audited)

Career Opportunities

The majority of students are already in relevant jobs and the job market is healthy for BCBAs at present. Professionals who are certified BCBAs have the skills and knowledge to develop, implement and evaluate quality interventions that help to produce positive behavioural changes in a range of settings. Typically, behaviour analysts work in the ‘helping’ professions (e.g. teachers, speech/language therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists). Increasingly, jobs advertised for behaviour managers or specialists require BCBA status.
There is an increasing demand for BCBAs in Europe and worldwide, especially in North America. Teachers as well as allied health professionals should find this degree beneficial in their workplace.

Read less

This programme seeks to develop a critical understanding of concepts and principles of applied behaviour analysis. It provides you with a detailed knowledge of intellectual and developmental disabilities and experience of practice or conducting research in this field, and is aimed at recent graduates as well as experienced practitioners.

Benefits include academic and professional support from some of the UK’s leading applied behaviour analysts and intellectual and developmental disability researchers. The programme also provides the necessary coursework to apply to sit the international examination for certification as a behaviour analyst.

Please note: the PgCert cannot be studied on a part-time basis.

This is a Verified Course Sequence with the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB)

Course structure

Coursework is taught through a mixture of web-based resources, directed reading, videos, lectures, seminars and practical sessions, supported by a number of workshops, where you work with skilled professionals and have the opportunity to share ideas and experiences with fellow students.

Modules

The following modules are indicative of those offered on this programme:

• Social psychology of intellectual and developmental disabilities
• Behaviour analysis and intervention
• Service issues in intellectual and developmental disabilities
• Research methods
• Values, ethics and professional practice
• Concepts of applied behaviour analysis
• Developing and implementing interventions

Knowledge and understanding

You will gain knowledge and understanding of:

• concepts and principles of applied behaviour analysis
• values and ethical principles underpinning professional practice
• methods of observing, recording and analysing behaviour
• methods of assessing and intervening to manage challenging behaviour and support adaptive behaviour
• cognitive, communicative and social characteristics of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities
• biological, social and environmental causes of intellectual and developmental disability
• challenging behaviour and other special needs
• ideology, policy and service development
• definition and measurement of service quality
• the relationships between service organisation and quality
• research methodology and basic statistical analysis.

Dynamic centre of expertise

This programme is taught by the University's renowned Tizard Centre. An annual seminar series runs at which staff or guest lecturers present the results of research or highlight recent developments in the field of social care. The Jim Mansell Memorial Lecture invites public figures or distinguished academics to discuss topics that could interest a wider audience. The Centre also publishes the Tizard Learning Disability Review (in conjunction with Emerald Publishing) to provide a source of up-to-date information for professionals and carers.

The Tizard Centre provides consultancy to organisations in the statutory and independent sectors, both nationally and internationally, in diversified areas such as service assessment, person-centred approaches, active support and adult protection..

Careers

Our Applied Behaviour Analysis programme includes a course sequence approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. Its completion, therefore, meets two of the requirements for certification as a Behaviour Analyst. Successful students will need to obtain appropriate supervised experience and pass the BACB exam. Many of our ABA students hope to take this career path, applying their skills either in work with children or adults with autism (ie early intervention programmes or in schools using an ABA approach) or with children/adults with learning disabilities whose behaviour is described as challenging. Every week we are asked to notify our students of opportunities in these fields. Our ABA programme is also suitable for parents of children/adults with autism or learning disability, who are looking to increase their own understanding of ABA.

Why study at Kent

We offer inspirational teaching and supervision alongside first-class library and IT facilities. You also benefit from our high-impact research in all subjects. Whatever you are looking to study, Kent provides a dynamic and challenging environment for your postgraduate studies.

• Kent was awarded gold, the highest rating, in the UK Government’s Teaching Excellence Framework
• Kent is ranked 21st in the Times Higher Education (THE) ‘Table of Tables’ 2017
• Kent is ranked 25th in the Complete University Guide 2018
• Kent is ranked 22nd in the Guardian University Guide 2018
• 42% of our academics are from overseas and we have students representing 158 nationalities
• In the most recent research rankings, 97% of research at Kent was found to be of international quality (REF 2014)
• Kent is ranked 17th in the UK* for research intensity and research output (REF 2014)

Find out more: https://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/why-kent/

* of 122 universities, not including specialist institutions

Read less

The Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is a one-year full-time course. The aim of this course is to ensure that students become proficient to a high degree in the understanding and practical application of the principles of applied behaviour analysis with particular regard to persons with autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, traumatic brain injury, children and adolescents in care or special programmes, and persons presenting learning and/or behavioural challenges in school. This intense course provides training in ABA for a yearly intake of up to 30 students. The course provides a route for securing Assistant level certification status from the Behaviour Analysis Certification Board (BACB), an international body which sets standards for training in behaviour analysis. See http://www.bacb.com for more details. Classes are normally conducted one week-day every two weeks and on one Saturday per month. Individual supervision sessions occur at times outside the teaching schedule and are arranged with an individual board certified behaviour analyst supervisor. Taught modules run from the end of September to the end of June. Students who wish to apply to the course must secure a practical placement prior to applying. Please refer to the course website for further information in this respect.

Course Content:

Graduates of this course are skilled to conduct functional behavioural assessments, to implement and design behaviour support plans or learning/skill acquisition programmes, and to analyse and display data to make informed decisions regarding intervention and learning methods. Topics covered on the course include:

Definitions, Characteristics and Basic Principles
Ethics in ABA
Selection, Defining and Measuring Behaviour
Behavioural Assessment
Behavioural Intervention, Measurement and Evaluation
Supervised Practice

Admission Requirements

The Diploma in Applied Behaviour Analysis is open to those with an honors undergraduate degree in Psychology or a related human service field such as education/teaching, nursing, speech and language and social care. - Applicants from Ireland or EU and non-EU countries who meet entry criteria and are employed by or volunteer in an educational or human service setting are welcome to apply. - Please refer to the website for more detailed information. Please note that students must complete the Postgraduate Diploma course or equivalent behaviour analytic coursework prior to completing the one-year M.Sc. Psychology (ABA) or M.Sc. ABA. Please refer to http://www.psychology.tcd.ie/postgraduate/applied-behaviour-analysis for further details about this course. - Applicants with good written and spoken English (due to the nature of this profession) from other EU and non-EU countries are very welcome to apply.

Read less

The aim of this course is to ensure that students become proficient to a high degree in the understanding and practical application of the principles of applied behaviour analysis with particular regard to persons with autism and other developmental disabilities, and/or children and adolescents in care or special programmes, and/or those students presenting learning and/or behavioural challenges in school. The content of this course focuses on behavioural theory. This intensive course provides professional training in applied behaviour analysis (ABA) for a yearly intake of up to 8 students. Approval has been secured from the Behaviour Analysis Certification Board, an international body which sets standards for training and provides a route for securing ABA Certification status. Classes are normally arranged to take place on one weekday with additional classes taking place on occasional weekends as required. Placement practice in behaviour analysis must be supervised by a privately engaged, but course approved supervisor. Students receive continuous assessment and feedback through their regular supervision sessions and participation in class activities. Placement practice in ABA is also formally assessed at mid and end of course. Students must maintain a portfolio of their work throughout the course.

Course Content:

Graduates of this course are skilled to engage in the ethical practice and research of ABA, to conduct functional behavioural assessments, implement and design behaviour support plans or learning/skill acquisition programmes, and analyse and display data to make informed decisions around intervention and learning needs.

Modules include:

Advanced research - data analysis methods in ABA I
Conceptual Issues in ABA Research Dissertation Proposal
Special Topics in ABA*
Supervised Research - Practice
Research Dissertation

* Special Topics may include: Precision Teaching, ABA in Multidisciplinary Teams, Theoretical Approaches in Behaviour Analysis. These topics may vary according to staff availability.

Read less

The course is designed for professionals who work (or intend to work) in teaching and caring professions, e.g. with people with autism, Down’s Syndrome and other learning disabilities, in general behaviour management, education, parent support and training, community development, and adult mental health. Students will develop practical skills e.g. the ability to select and apply behavioural assessment and intervention procedures; gather experimental evidence for the efficacy of proposed behavioural interventions and adjust them accordingly; display skills and knowledge for leadership roles in social and community settings; articulate ethical principles and employ these in clinical decision making.

Key benefits

- Three members of the teaching staff on the MSc in ABA are Board Certified Behaviour Analysts. All staff have a strong record of research and/or teaching in both experimental and applied behaviour analysis. This quality of teaching has been recognised through numerous international awards for the dissemination of the science.

- Those students who completed the course whilst in employment have gone on to bring their new skillset to such diverse backgrounds as education (Special Needs and mainstream), social work, and mental health nursing.

- Work placement/ study abroad available

Visit the website: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/course/msc-applied-behaviour-analysis-pt-ce

Course detail

- Description -

The broad aim of the MSc Applied Behaviour Analysis is to give students the opportunity to develop their theoretical and conceptual knowledge in behaviour analysis, develop skills in behavioural assessment, and acquire the ability to work in partnership with clients where they plan and implement programmes that are aimed at establishing, strengthening and/or weakening targeted behaviours.

- Purpose -

The programme aims to provide a foundation that contributes to the preparation of candidates interested in applying for the internationally recognised examination leading to Board Certification in Behaviour Analysis (BCBA). It will normally be completed over two calendar years to allow time for students to obtain relevant work experience, which is a requirement for certification in Behaviour Analysis.

- Course format and assessment -

Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand.

A variety of teaching methods and learning environments are utilised to provide an optimal framework for study, the development of skills and expertise, the production of coursework, and preparation for examinations.As with any Masters programme, completion of a dissertation based on a research project is a major part of the assessment. The strategies from which students are expected to develop the knowledge, understanding and skills appropriate to the course are:

- listening and note taking in lectures
- private study, initially guided by recommended reading
- preparation and presentation of assignments using a range of media
- participation in seminars
- design, execution and analysis of a range of methods of enquiry
- exploration, acquisition and analysis of data
- observation and monitoring of professional practice
- taking responsibility for gaining appropriate advice and guidance from relevant sources
- managing their learning both as individuals and team members articulating the relevance of their learning for their own personal and career development

Career prospects

Those students who have completed the course have gone on to have successful careers in a number of areas. For example numerous students have gone on to work for local health authorities and charities as behaviour specialists in both Northern Irland and the Republic of Ireland. Numerous students have gone on to work privately by providinh hoe- and school-based behavioural interventions for families. A number of students who completed their placement year with the New England Center for Children (NECC) in Boston went on to work for NECC in London and Abu Dhabi.

How to apply: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/apply/how-to-apply#pg

Why Choose Ulster University ?

1. Over 92% of our graduates are in work or further study six months after graduation.
2. We are a top UK university for providing courses with a period of work placement.
3. Our teaching and the learning experience we deliver are rated at the highest level by the Quality Assurance Agency.
4. We recruit international students from more than 100 different countries.
5. More than 4,000 students from over 50 countries have successfully completed eLearning courses at Ulster University.

Flexible payment

To help spread the cost of your studies, tuition fees can be paid back in monthly instalments while you learn. If you study for a one-year, full-time master’s, you can pay your fees up-front, in one lump sum, or in either five* or ten* equal monthly payments. If you study for a master’s on a part-time basis (e.g. over three years), you can pay each year’s fees up-front or in five or ten equal monthly payments each year. This flexibility allows you to spread the payment of your fees over each academic year. Find out more by visiting https://www.ulster.ac.uk/apply/fees-and-finance/postgraduate

Scholarships

A comprehensive range of financial scholarships, awards and prizes are available to undergraduate, postgraduate and research students. Scholarships recognise the many ways in which our students are outstanding in their subject. Individuals may be able to apply directly or may automatically be nominated for awards. Visit the website: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/apply/fees-and-finance/scholarships

English Language Tuition

CELT offers courses and consultations in English language and study skills to Ulster University students of all subjects, levels and nationalities. Students and researchers for whom English is an additional language can access free CELT support throughout the academic year: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/international/english-language-support

Read less

The aim of this course is to ensure that students become proficient to a high degree in the understanding and practical application of the principles of applied behaviour analysis with particular regard to persons with autism and other developmental disabilities, and/or children and adolescents in care or special programmes, and/or those students presenting learning and/or behavioural challenges in school - The content of this course focuses upon clinical application. This intensive course provides professional training in applied behaviour analysis (ABA) for a yearly intake of up to 8 students. Classes are normally arranged to take place on one weekday with additional classes taking place on occasional weekends as required. Placement practice in behaviour analysis must be supervised by a privately engaged, but course approved supervisor - Students receive continuous assessment and feedback through their regular supervision sessions and participation in class activities. Placement practice in ABA is also formally assessed in the middle and at the end of the course. Students must maintain a portfolio of their work throughout the course.

Course Content and Structure:

Graduates of this course are skilled to engage in the ethical practice and research of ABA, to conduct functional behavioural assessments, implement and design behaviour support plans or learning/skill acquisition programmes, and analyse and display data to make informed decisions around intervention and learning needs.

Modules include:

Advanced research - data analysis methods in ABA;
Conceptual Issues in ABA
Research Dissertation Proposal
Special Topics in ABA
Supervised Research - Practice
Research Dissertation

Special Topics may include such issues as Precision Teaching, ABA in Multidisciplinary teams, Theoretical Approaches in Behaviour Analysis. These topics may vary according to staff availability.

Read less

This programme is aimed at those wishing to specialise in applied behaviour analysis. The course is designed to develop advanced theoretical and practical knowledge of the basic principles of behaviour analysis and the application of the principles within clinical and research settings. The programme has been developed by Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA) in collaboration with the Behavior Analysts Certification Board (BACB). It covers their entire Task List specifications and is recognised by the BACB as providing the content eligibility criteria necessary to sit the full BCBA exam.

The course consists of two parts. Part One comprises taught modules designed around the BACB Task List. The first four modules introduce the basic theory and practice of the science and the second four offer more detailed analysis of both applied and research procedures. On successful completion of Part One, you will proceed to Part Two - a clinical research study, planned and conducted in collaboration with your BCBA-qualified research supervisor.
Teaching is done through a combination of taught workshops, seminars, specialised computer-based instructional packages and practical 'hands-on' research experience. We provide a high quality teaching and learning environment that is intellectually stimulating and that uses the principles of behaviour analysis. This requires innovative course content and instructional procedures, measurement of learning, flexible communication among students and staff, and a friendly and supportive environment.
The full course leads to a Master's degree, but it is designed to be flexible to meet the differing needs of our students. For example, you may choose to take a smaller number of modules for a Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma, or for CPD purposes.

Read less

This Master’s programme is designed for those who want to pursue a postgraduate route in psychology that will develop their professional and psychological research skills and knowledge.

Modules in health and social psychology will explore how we apply psychology to real-world issues such as health promotion, environmental behaviour and prejudice.

Course Overview

This new MSc in Applied Social and Health Psychology aims to develop the student into a professional and employable psychological researcher. Through a novel and exciting mix of hands-on workshops (Applied Research, Ethics and Analysis), lecture and seminar debate (Psychology and Health, Applying Social Psychology), exploration of up-to-the minute issues (Society and Psychology) and working with academic staff in a research team (Professional Research Skills) the ability to develop postgraduate-level skills is built into this course.

The research opportunities offered to students by the programme team within this Master’s programme involve a focus on tackling important research areas of relevance to today’s environmental, political and social world, at a local and global level, providing our graduates with the skills and knowledge to go into further study (e.g., PhD) or into employment.

Modules

Indicative modules and content include:
-Society and Psychology
-Professional Research Skills
-Psychology and Health
-Applying Social Psychology
-Applied Research, Ethics & Analysis
-Applied Research Dissertation

Key Features

The Masters in Applied Social and Health Psychology will provide graduate students or those with relevant experience the opportunity to develop a range of higher-level research, evaluation, and professional skills which can be applied to a broad range of specialisms within and beyond Psychology.

Students will pursue specialist modules in the areas of health psychology and social psychology, and have the opportunity to complete a research dissertation in a specialist area of applied psychology. A particular strength of this course is the opportunity to work closely with academic members of staff on real research projects through the Professional Research Skills module and to receive mentoring in the development of applied research and professional skills.

The ultimate aim of this programme is to develop a well-rounded and competent psychological researcher who has developed a critical understanding of a wide range of applied research techniques, and who is able to apply this knowledge and associated skills discerningly to appropriate applied psychology questions of relevance to the wider social and health agendas.

The programme is structured around the coherent development of a diverse range of applied research skills and knowledge in Psychology, clearly building upon the existing practical skills base and academic expertise within the Psychology team.

Assessment

Assessments for this programme have been specifically designed to enable students to demonstrate a broad range of academic, research and professional skills. There are no exams for this programme, with students being assessed through a variety of different formats including class-based practical research skills assessments, written essays, a portfolio of professional competencies, research proposals and oral presentations. For part two of the Master’s programme students will complete their own research dissertation and submit a written thesis alongside a professional presentation of their research.

Career Opportunities

Psychology graduates are valued by a range of sectors due to the strong set of transferable and critical thinking skills developed through psychology programmes. As such, the higher level academic and professional skills developed through the addition of a Master’s level qualification will clearly produce a highly attractive graduate to both psychology fields and other sectors. These will include the ability to:
-Exercise initiative and personal responsibility in the production and management of workload
-Engage in teamwork and to reflect upon this process
-Present work to both academic and lay audiences in an appropriate manner
-Engage in independent learning required for continuing professional development
-Present work appropriately through different media to a high standard

Graduates from this programme will be in a strong position to pursue further academic research pathways in the form of PhD study or academic research assistantship roles. Additionally, the skill set developed from this Master’s programme will also make them highly attractive candidates for employment and professional career opportunities in non-academic organisations such as government agencies, voluntary sector organisations, the NHS, or in a range of private sector businesses involving project management and evaluation skills.

Read less

The MSc offers innovative and applied training in a number of specialisms including a named degree in civil society and public affairs; criminal justice; applied psychology; or global social work and social policy.

About the programme

The MSc provides you with applied and transferable social science research skills to better understand the complexities of society, the role of multiple organisations (‘actors’) in governance systems, and disciplinespecific expertise.

The programme is interdisciplinary and employability is a major theme of the MSc subject pathways so as to equip you with key applied skills for the graduate job market. Intensive workshops are delivered primarily by academic experts, with input from practitioners and non-academic specialists.

You can study for the MSc in Applied Social Science, by choosing optional modules across pathways, or opt for a specialist named degree, as follows:

- Applied Psychology:
Gives you the skills to research and examine human behaviour in various social settings i.e. education, healthcare and the workplace.

- Civil Society and Public Affairs:
Provides you with an advanced understanding of the relationship between civil society, the institutions of multi-level governance and the policymaking environment.

- Criminal Justice and Community Practice:
Gain the skills and understanding of criminal justice and youth violence to research and navigate the causes of crime and strategies for tackling criminal activity.

- Global Social Work and Social Policy:
Provides social workers, community workers and voluntary sector workers with opportunities to engage with the most innovative social work and social policy throughout the world.

Your learning

You will study core and specialist modules. Core modules include:
• Social Research Today
• Contemporary Social Issues
• Research Methods
• Dissertation

Students of the generic Applied Social Science course can also study three specialist electives.
For students studying for the various named degrees, specialist modules offered include:

Applied Psychology:
• Psychology Applied to Public Health
• Psychology in the Workplace
• Psychology Applied to Education

Civil Society and Public Affairs:
• Theories of State and Civil Society
• Politics, Power and Civil Society
• Policy and Practice

Criminal Justice and Community Practice:
• Philosophy of Crime and Justice
• Policing; Youth Violence
• Policy and Practice

Global Social Work and Social Policy:
• Comparative Social Policy
• Social Work in a Global Context; Migration and Human Rights
• Policy and Practice

Our Careers Adviser says

Graduates find careers in various specialist roles particularly related to research, campaigning and advocacy across public, private, voluntary and charity sectors. Part-time students may already be working in roles related to the specialist study areas and use the MSc for career advancement.

Research excellence

Research carried out by our staff underpins all of our teaching activity, which means you’ll directly benefit from our extensive expertise in a variety of fascinating, relevant areas. Our research outputs span academic publications and a range of contributions to official reports. Our research work is coordinated through a set of interdisciplinary research groups in Applied Psychology, Civil Society and Governance, Health Behaviours and Policy, and Social Work.

We would be interested to hear from anyone who might be interested in pursuing postgraduate studies linked to any aspect of our research work. In addition, we offer a range of research-based modules and short courses for continuing professional development. Our portfolio of research-led taught postgraduate programmes is now expanding across the full range of subject areas.

Note: This named degree will only run in 2016 if MSc Policy Analysis and Global Governance is not validated for 2016 entry.

Read less

Applied behaviour analysis has been recognised as the treatment of choice for a broad range of clinical problems (e.g., early intervention for autism, responding to challenging behaviour, classroom management, effective instructional practices). Positive behavioural support (PBS) is an example of behaviour analysis in a particular practice setting (usually implemented for adults with intellectual disabilities or within special education settings). PBS aims to improve a person’s quality of life through the use of a framework that allows behaviour to be analysed in the social, physical, and broader context in which it occurs. The aims of the course are to develop an advanced conceptual understanding of applied behaviour analysis, behavioural concepts and philosophy relevant to the development and treatment of psychological disorders, advanced knowledge of positive behavioural support and research methods. In addition, students will develop key competencies in the use of behavioural principles in clinical settings using the positive behaviour support model. In addition to obtaining PBS and behaviour analytic knowledge, graduates will have acquired critical evaluation, time management, collaborative working, sound professional conduct, and oral communication skills. The course is taught via lectures, group discussions, seminars, and activities. Assessments include written assignments in a range of formats and unseen exams. Students may undertake a research thesis in a range of available applied settings with a range of participants, or they may complete an internship across two years (limited places available). During the internship, students will work in an applied setting and will submit a portfolio of their clinical work at the end of each year.

"This course is one of the first to offer a specalisation in positive behavioural support in Europe, taught by leading UK experts and offering exceptional learning opportunities." Course Director Dr Rebecca Sharp

Course content is for guidance purposes only and may be subject to change.

Read less

Developed for students who wish to develop a career in health or forensic psychology, this conversion course is open to anyone with a recognised undergraduate degree in any subject.

It covers the five core areas required for accreditation by the British Psychological Society, including the psychology of everyday life and cognitive and biological psychology.

Your studies will also involve the development of essential research skills, which ends with a piece of independent original research conducted under supervision.

Visit the website: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/courses/postgraduate/next-year/applied-psychology-conversion#about

Course detail

• Learn on a unique conversion course that places particular emphasis on the specialist areas of health and forensic psychology, and will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to develop a successful career
• Study the essential core topics of individual differences, developmental, social, cognitive and biological psychology
• Develop a deep understanding of how learning and memory can be applicable to our everyday lives
• Gain the skills and expertise necessary to use the qualitative and quantitative methodologies commonly used by professional psychologists
• Explore intellectual functions, the biological basis of behaviour and the effects of impairments on the mind
• Challenge yourself by studying how core knowledge in psychology can be applied in daily life to the specific areas of health, wellbeing and criminal behaviour
• Benefit from access to a wide range of departmental facilities, including expert advice and specialist software including SPSS, ATLAS, EEG and driver simulators.

Modules

• Advanced Research Methods (Applied Psychology) (PSY060-6) Compulsory
• Applied Psychology (PSY063-6) Compulsory
• Applied Psychology Dissertation Project (PSY064-6) Compulsory
• Biological And Neuropsychological Perspectives Of Behaviour (PSY061-6) Compulsory
• Cognition And Performance (PSY057-6) Compulsory
• Developmental Psychology (PSY058-6) Compulsory
• Personality, Intelligence And Assessments (PSY059-6) Compulsory
• Research Methods - Quantitative And Qualitative (PSY056-6) Compulsory
• Social Psychology (PSY062-6) Compulsory

Assessment

The assessment strategy reflects the academic rigor expected of a BPS accredited MSc degree.

The assessments are designed to test your academic knowledge, oral and written skills, use of literature using primary and secondary sources, critical analysis of ideas, connections made between theory, practice, real life situations and the understanding and application of professional values, including ethical issues as detailed by the BPS.

The ability to engage in research at a high level and to analyse data using advanced statistical techniques are assessed as these are important skills for psychologists and others in many employment settings. Communication skills are assessed through videotaped presentation of research proposals as these are very important in any career. The ability to analyse and understand issues and apply theory to practice are assessed through a number of units where student are required to produce academic reports, essays and reflective reports with a specific application of knowledge in mind.

Finally the important career skill of project management is assessed mainly through the research dissertation involving self-directed problem-based enquiry, managing time and reviewing.

Careers

Psychology is applicable in a range of everyday settings from shopping to work, but also in the NHS, the prison and probation service and more. Studying Applied Psychology will also develop a broad range of skills which you will find helpful in any work environment. You will:

• Be given an opportunity in the Applied Psychology unit to experience studying different subject areas within professional pathways of psychology such as clinical, counselling, education, health and forensic psychology.
• Develop skills for report writing specific to empirical research in psychology using both qualitative and quantitative methods
• Work individually or in groups to meet deadlines.
• Develop communication skills that enable you to summarise and present complex information, including the results of statistical analysis, to others.
• Develop skills on complex problem solving.

In order to achieve all of the above the Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences and the wider University will support you with a range of subject specific talks given by professionals working in areas of psychology that require BPS chartered membership. These talks will provide you with information about how to achieve a career within these chartered membership pathways. For example, Health and Forensic Psychology. These career talks are an integrated part of your studies and are partly embedded in your curriculum.

Funding

For information on available funding, please follow the link: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/money/scholarships/pg

How to apply

For information on how to apply, please follow the link: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/course/applicationform

Read less

The MRes in Animal Behaviour and Welfare offers an opportunity to expand your knowledge of animal behaviour and animal welfare science. You will explore advances in animal behaviour within animal cognition, animal personality, animal communication and language, sexual selection and sexual conflict, and social behaviour. You will also look at contemporary issues in animal welfare science such as methods of animal welfare assessment, animal welfare legislation, welfare implications of keeping animals in captivity and issues related to improving and assessing animal welfare.

This postgraduate programme will allow you to advance the knowledge you gained from your animal related degree and provide you with the required knowledge and skills to develop practical solutions for existing and emerging problems in animal behaviour and animal welfare science. The knowledge and skills that you gain from the programme will enhance your career prospects and can be applied in future scientific research and in practical areas such as conservation, animal welfare organisations, research centres and zoos.

The Masters by Research in Animal Behaviour and Welfare includes 60 credits of taught modules, including core modules of advances in animal behaviour, contemporary issues in animal welfare, and research methods and optional modules such as wildlife conflict, postgraduate independent study and reflection on practice. These modules tend to be taught in two day blocks. This means that the teaching is condensed to allow the Masters study to occur round other commitments in our students' lives.

These modules will give you the opportunity to expand your knowledge of animal behaviour and welfare science, advance your skills in critically evaluating current research, and develop your abilities in research design and statistical analysis. These skills, along with one to one support, will allow you to understand and apply current scientific thinking, develop new ideas and evaluate current processes and practices. This will allow you to effectively design and carry out your dissertation research project. This will be original research that will make a valuable contribution to the field of animal behaviour or animal welfare. The dissertation is highly flexible and provides you with the freedom to develop a research project of your own choosing in order to fit in with your specific interests and career aspirations.

The programme can be completed full time in one year; part time routes are available and should be planned with your Programme Manager.

Read less

The world is experiencing important ecological and environmental challenges. To address them we need to expand and link scientific knowledge with practice, for example in the areas of environmental consultancy, policy implementation and development, and fundamental ecological and environmental research.

The MSc in Applied Ecology and Environmental Management incorporates topics in ecology, environmental sciences and environmental management to explore the relationship between the natural world and society. You will explore, within a scientific and an ecological framework, the impact of human activities on the environment, and will obtain a thorough understanding of environmental management and sustainability issues, including policy and legislation, with the development of practical skills.

Visit the website: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/courses/postgraduate/applied-ecology-and-environmental-management.aspx

Course detail

Our programme aims to develop and challenge you at a postgraduate level to develop a deeper and applied understanding of environmental biology and science, its relevance to the impact of human activities on environmental systems, as well as the mitigation of those impacts, and the regulatory, political and scientific parameters that frame practice and research in the environmental sciences. We have experienced and research active staff who will be able to convey their enthusiasm for their disciplines, and our facilities will allow you to carry out your studies and projects.

Through this MSc, you will have the opportunity to expand and link conceptual scientific knowledge while also applying it to the practice and application of research as it serves public and private stakeholders, for example in the areas of environmental consultancy, policy implementation and development, and fundamental research.

Suitability

The programme is suited for those interested in the applied aspects of ecology and environmental sciences for environmental management and consultancy, or for those interested in delivering user­defined integrative solutions via research, management and consultancy within the areas of animal behaviour, welfare and conservation, human and physical geography, crop protection, and applied ecology and environmental management.

Content

This MSc covers several main themes which make the core modules, including:

• Environmental Management and Sustainability
• Environmental Science
• Applied Ecology and Conservation
• Research Methods
• Applied Skills in Ecology, Environmental Management and Research
• Understanding Landscapes
• Agro-ecology
• Dissertation

Format

We use a variety of teaching methods that provide support and guidance within a participative learning environment, including:

• Interactive lectures (students and lecturers or speakers),
• Practical sessions (field and laboratory),
• Seminars and workshops,
• Virtual learning environments,
• Problem-based learning as individuals and groups,
• Tutorials with supervisors.

Assessment

This programme is assessed through coursework only, including essays, mock grant proposals and consultancy reports and portfolios consisting of desk-studies, critical reviews, reports, data presentation and analysis as well as literature reviews and other pieces of scientific writing.

What can I do next?

The programme has been developed to address the skills and knowledge gaps in ecological and environmental research and management. The modules in this programme are designed to allow students to learn the theoretical framework, practical skills and transferrable skills that are required for developing a career in ecological and environmental research with an applied focus, and in environmental assessment and consultancy. Employability is promoted and embedded across individual modules within the programme. Students will gain a broad range of skills to enhance employability.

How to apply

For information on how to apply, please follow this link: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/how-to-apply/how-to-apply.aspx

Funding

-Masters Loans-

From 2016/17 government loans of up to £10,000 are available for postgraduate Masters study. The loans will be paid directly to students by the Student Loans Company and will be subject to both personal and course eligibility criteria.

For more information available here: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/funding-your-degree/funding-your-postgraduate-degree.aspx

-2017/18 Entry Financial Support-

Information on alternative funding sources is available here: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/funding-your-degree/2017-18-entry-financial-support.aspx

Read less

“A one year MSc degree that focuses on how animal behaviour can be applied to wildlife conservation. You will study the behaviour of a wide range of species from marine, freshwater and terrestrial habitats.”

The course consists of six taught modules (5 ECTS each) and a major research thesis (60 ECTS). The taught modules are: Studies in Conservation Behaviour; Data Analysis using R and RStudio; Residential Field Course; Applied Geographic Information Systems; Animal Behaviour: Recording and Analysis; Acoustic Monitoring as a Marine Conservation Tool.

Course Highlights

Teaching by research-active staff working in the field of Conservation Behaviour, with particular interests in aquatic species.

A residential field course on an island off the west coast of Ireland, where the behaviour of a number of species will be studied in a natural setting.

A major research thesis on a real conservation problem, in collaboration with a supervisor from GMIT and a supervisor from an external organisation.

Career Opportunities

Graduates will be well prepared for careers in wildlife conservation and management, or may continue to PhD research. Potential employers include: Ecological Consultancies, Non-Governmental Organisations and Charities, Research Institutes and Government Agencies.

How to Apply

We are currently accepting applications through the post. To request an application form, please contact Dr Martin Gammell at: [email protected]

For any queries about the application process please contact the Admissions Office at +353 (0)91 742305, or at [email protected]

For any queries about the course please contact the course coordinators: Dr Martin Gammell, email: [email protected], or Dr Joanne O’Brien, email: [email protected]

Read less

The MSc in Applied Economics and International Development provides training in the application of economic principles to the problems of international development.

The programme is designed for students with a good first degree in a sciences or social sciences subject, who would like to pursue a career in economics and international development. You must also have some previous quantitative background, eg a good mark in mathematics from a pre-university school course.

The programme offers great flexibility and breadth of choice in module options in the areas of international finance, trade and development, environment and rural economies.

Visit the website https://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/192/applied-economics-and-international-development

Course structure

The programme is studied over one year full-time or two years part-time and is divided into two stages: eight taught modules (six of which are compulsory) and a dissertation.

The compulsory modules provide a basis for you to acquire the basic skills for the programme, while the optional modules enable you to choose from applied subjects in the first and second terms. All MSc students take a module in Research Methods, which provides practical skills and knowledge for MSc-level research.

All of our MSc programmes require some mathematical analysis, and we recognise that students have widely differing backgrounds in mathematics. The first week of all our MSc programmes includes compulsory intensive teaching in mathematics, refreshing and improving your skills in order to equip you with the techniques you will need for the rest of the programme.

Students who successfully pass the taught element of the programme, proceed to the dissertation stage, where you undertake a supervised project of your choice on an issue in international development. Advice on choice of dissertation topic and management is given during the taught stage of the programme. The dissertation stage develops students’ research skills and follows on from the Research Methods module. Student dissertations are supervised by academic staff.

Modules

The following modules are indicative of those offered on this programme. This list is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation. Most programmes will require you to study a combination of compulsory and optional modules. You may also have the option to take modules from other programmes so that you may customise your programme and explore other subject areas that interest you.

EC817 - Research Methods (15 credits)
EC815 - Growth and Development Theory (15 credits)
EC832 - Political Economy of Public Policy (15 credits)
EC833 - Economic Principles (15 credits)
EC835 - Quantitative Methods for Economists (15 credits)
EC834 - Environmental and Resource Economics and Policy (15 credits)
EC821 - Econometric Methods (15 credits)
EC825 - Applied Microeconometrics (15 credits)
EC829 - Environmental Valuation (15 credits)
EC831 - Rural and Peasant Economies (15 credits)
EC816 - International Finance (15 credits)
EC803 - Trade and Development (15 credits)

Assessment

Assessment is through a wide variety of methods including seminar presentations, extended essays, short projects, in-class tests, examinations, and the dissertation.

Programme aims

This programme aims to:

- provide a stimulating education in the principles of economics and related subjects, and their application to problems of international development, in which high-quality teaching motivates you to achieve your full potential. The teaching is informed by the research and scholarship of our teaching staff

- build on your existing knowledge, abilities and skills and develop a deeper understanding of the way in which economics and quantitative techniques can be applied to problem-solving and policy in international development

- develop your ability to apply economic knowledge, analytical tools and skills in a range of theoretical, applied and policy problems

- develop your independent research skills and prepare you for work as professionals in international development

- provide you with information and advice on future employment and further postgraduate study.

Research areas

- Labour and education economics

Staff research includes work in the areas of wage distributions, skills and job quality, education, migration and trade.

- Macroeconomics, money and finance

Staff research in this area includes: macroeconometric theory; monetary policy; financial markets and macroeconomic performance growth theory and international macroeconomics; theoretical models of business cycles, labour market search and financial sources of economic fluctuations; DSGE models; growth theory and empirics.

- Microeconomic theory, games and behaviour

Research interests cover public economics especially tax policy; gambling and uncertainty; international trade and government procurement; health economics; public goods; leadership in co-ordination games; industrial organisation; theoretic modelling; economic history.

- Development economics

Research interests include work on growth; trade; the balance of payments; different aspects of migration and remittances on growth; applied studies focusing on particular developing countries.

- Agri-environmental economics

Research interests cover non-market valuation, food safety, information economics applied to environmental problems, design and evaluation of agri-environmental policies, biodiversity, agricultural productivity, European agricultural policy, agricultural trade policy.

- Transport and regional economics

Research strengths are the regional impact of transport investments; the economic evaluation of infrastructure; regulation and alternative funding models; the economics of public-private partnerships.

Careers

Kent has an excellent record for postgraduate employment: over 96% of our postgraduate students who graduated in 2014 found a job or further study opportunity within six months.

A postgraduate degree in the area of economics is a particularly valuable and flexible qualification that can open the door to exciting careers in many professions. Our graduates have gone on to work as economists in international organisations, the financial sector, business, UK and overseas governments, and to further postgraduate training and academic careers at Kent, UK and overseas universities. Recent MSc graduates have gone on to work for companies in the UK such as BNP Paribas, AXA, FactSet and PwC.

The School's employability officers and the University's Careers and Employability Service are available throughout the year to offer one-to-one advice and help on all aspects of employability at any stage in your postgraduate studies. We also offer online advice on employability skills, career choices, applications and interview skills.

Find out how to apply here - https://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/apply/

Read less