Masters Degrees (Schizophrenia)

Research profile

Our Division of Psychiatry is internationally recognised as a world-class clinical research and teaching centre.

We focus on the mechanisms underlying the development of major psychiatric disorders, including autism, bipolar disorder, depression, dementia and schizophrenia.

Expertise and studies

We have a particular expertise in longitudinal, clinical and biological studies of large cohorts of people at high risk of psychotic disorders drawn from across Scotland. Our studies include:

• the Edinburgh High Risk Study, which examines 200 young people at high genetic risk of schizophrenia over a period of ten years
• the Edinburgh Study of Co-Morbidity, which examines teenagers at high cognitive risk for schizophrenia
• the Bipolar Family Study, which examines over 200 young people at familial risk of bipolar disorder and controls

In psychiatric genetics, we take part in international genome wide association studies and focus on analyses of candidate genes including DISC-1, NDE-1 and DLG-2.

We also have a major focus on the functional genetics of psychiatric illness and have investigated the effects of variation in genes, such as DISC-1, on brain structure and function, as well as their programming during development in stem cell models.

We have demonstrated, for the first time, that structural and functional MRI changes precede the onset of psychosis and could be used as a diagnostic aid.

We have also demonstrated that imaging can be used to separate autism from learning disability in people of matched IQ.

We have made substantial progress in the discovery of genes, including DISC-1, associated with psychosis and have played a leading role in understanding how genetic variation alters brain structure and function and risk for mental illness.

Research methods

The principal methods used are state-of-the-art structural and functional imaging techniques and genetic studies. We are also involved in a number of clinical trials of novel therapeutic interventions.

Major conditions of interest

Our major interests (that straddle the disciplines of Neurology and Psychiatry) include:

• Autism and learning disability (Andrew Stanfield)
• Dementia prevention (Craig Ritchie)
• Bipolar disorder and depression (Andrew McIntosh)
• Schizophrenia (Stephen Lawrie, Mandy Johnstone)
• Cognition and Behaviour (collaborations with the Centre for Cognitive Ageing and Cognitive Epidemiology
• Centre for Cognitive Ageing and Cognitive Epidemiology

We are also closely involved in two philanthropically funded Specialist Centres of Excellence:

• Patrick Wild Centre for Research into Autism, Fragile X Syndrome & Intellectual Disabilities (co-Directors Dr Peter Kind and Dr Andrew Stanfield)
• Centre for Dementia Prevention (Director Professor Craig Ritchie)

Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences

The Division of Psychiatry is a part of the Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences (CCBS) in the Edinburgh Medical School. CCBS integrates laboratory and clinical research to study the causes, consequences and treatment of major brain disorders.

• Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences

Training and support

Postgraduate students are mentored and supported by at least two supervisors and receive long-term guidance from their thesis committee.

We offer a transferable skills programme and project-specific courses, including opportunities to become involved in science communication and public engagement. In addition, the Division provides clinical case demonstrations and specialist seminars.

Facilities

We offer well-characterised cohorts of patients and expertise in a wide variety of techniques to study biological aspects of psychiatric disorders.

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Summary

Become a qualified dramatherapist with this unique programme at Roehampton. It offers a practical and clinical approach, underpinned by Ritual Theatre theory, for working with others to impact healing and a positive change through drama.

The MA Dramatherapy programme at Roehampton offers unique training within the Ritual Theatre process of dramatherapy. Drawing heavily on the theatrical observations of Peter Brook and the experiments of Jerzy Grotowski, as well as anthropological notions of “rites of passage” and the importance of “myth”, the programmes offers a clearly structured developmental process for the clinical application of dramatherapy at various levels.

On this course, you will learn to facilitate an in-depth therapeutic process for a range of client groups, and devise therapeutic performances and workshops. You will also undertake an original piece of research into dramatherapy practice. The course is approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and leads to a nationally-recognised professional qualification.

The programme consists of three stages, which offers a clearly structured developmental process for the clinical application of dramatherapy. In Stage One, you will be introduced to basic theatre skills and use these creatively to work with established stories and characters. This progresses into an exploration of the personal identifications that we have with stories and myths, and an understanding of the deep foundations within many cultural traditions of using ritual, drama and performance for the enhancement of health. In Stage Two, the focus moves on to employing drama and theatre processes as vehicles for exploring our own inter-personal and internal ‘dramas’.

Stage Three is where you will conduct your own piece of practical investigation or research into the literature and theory-base of dramatherapy practice. The Dramatherapy programme will provide you with a broad range of skills enabling you to pursue your own research interests across a wide spectrum of dramatherapy practice and theory.

Content

You will study a range of topics including how to crafting therapeutic drama stories, understanding the individual and group process, Ritual Theatre, working with myths, paratheatrical explorations and the art of structure when working in dramatherapy.

Our research areas include individual dramatherapy in schizophrenia; perception and evaluation of therapeutic outcomes from therapist and client perspectives; the role of race, culture and gender; dramatherapy and “mentalisation” with borderline personality disorder and complex trauma; therapeutic scenarios and resistance; creativity and destructiveness; the dramatherapist; and the multidisciplinary team.

Alongside the experiential focus of the training, the programme also aims to develop the necessary understanding and reflective capacity required to practice as a professional dramatherapist. This is achieved through workshops, lecture series and clinical application seminars, as well as through assessed clinical placements.

We also offer introductory courses which provide a useful background to those working in related professions or anyone simply wishing to find out more about the work. For information on our Introduction Courses, Summer Schools and Foundation Course in Dramatherapy, see the Psychology Short Courses.

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This is a unique course for international and UK-based psychiatrists, paediatricians and psychologists, as well as allied professionals leading to enhanced clinical and research skills in child and adolescent mental health. The Child and Adolescent Mental Health course is taught by leading figures in the field and offers comprehensive content with strong research and clinical focus.

Students will be taught research methodology and statistics, issues relating to child development, aetiology of child and adolescent disorders, the psychological and physical treatments for emotional, behavioural and developmental disorders in children and young people. You will complete a research project, which could use quantitative or qualitative methodologies. You will also develop your skills in diagnosis, formulation and planning therapeutic interventions, service design, monitoring and evaluation. Clinical placements within CAMHS teams may also be arranged.

Come along to our Postgraduate Open Evening in Psychology, Mental Health and Neuroscience on Wed 1 Feb to discuss your study options with world-leaders in the field. Book your place now https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/postgraduate-taught-open-evening-health-subjects-tickets-29980971894

Key benefits

Taught by leading academics in the field.
- Opportunity to engage in innovative research.
- Work with a variety of specialist clinicians.
- Obtain a course qualification which is internationally recognised.
- Supervised clinical placement.
- Innovative web-based clinical learning to supplement direct experience.
- Optional teaching in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Therapeutic Assessment for Self-Harm and Kiddie Schedule for Schizophrenia and Affective Disorders.

Visit the website: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught-courses/child-and-adolescent-mental-health-msc.aspx

- Course purpose -

A programme for international and UK-based psychiatrists, paediatricians, and psychologists, as well as allied professionals which aims at developing knowledge, skills and research methodologies relating to child and adolescent psychiatry, child development, therapeutic interventions and service models. Students develop clinical skills, and are able to contribute to culturally sensitive and clinically effective services through relevant research, including health service development research.

- Course format and assessment -

A full list of required and optional modules, time spent on study and assessment criteria can be found in the course details section of our website http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught-courses/child-and-adolescent-mental-health-msc.aspx

Career prospects

UK and international graduates return to clinical practice with enhanced skills and knowledge in child mental health.

How to apply: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/taught-courses.aspx

About Postgraduate Study at King’s College London:

To study for a postgraduate degree at King’s College London is to study at the city’s most central university and at one of the top 20 universities worldwide (2015/16 QS World Rankings). Graduates will benefit from close connections with the UK’s professional, political, legal, commercial, scientific and cultural life, while the excellent reputation of our MA and MRes programmes ensures our postgraduate alumni are highly sought after by some of the world’s most prestigious employers. We provide graduates with skills that are highly valued in business, government, academia and the professions.

Scholarships & Funding:

All current PGT offer-holders and new PGT applicants are welcome to apply for the scholarships. For more information and to learn how to apply visit: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/ioppn/study/prospective-students/Masters-Scholarships.aspx

Free language tuition with the Modern Language Centre:

If you are studying for any postgraduate taught degree at King’s you can take a module from a choice of over 25 languages without any additional cost. Visit: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/mlc

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About the course

This unique specialist course gives you practical experience in human embryonic stem cell techniques, helping you develop the professional skills employers want. You’ll also spend time in seminars considering the ethical and legal issues associated with the field.

Where your masters can take you

Graduates with skills in stem cell and regenerative medicine are in demand. Your degree will prepare you for a career in research in academia or industry, or in a clinical-related field. Our graduates are working all over the world – from the UK to China, India and the USA – and over half go on to doctoral study.

Learn from the experts

The 2014 Research Excellence Framework (REF) rates us No 1 in the UK for research in this field. Our international reputation attracts highly motivated staff and students. Sheffield is a vibrant place to take a masters based on pioneering research.

Regular seminars from distinguished international experts help you to connect your studies to the latest developments. We’re also part of collaborative research groups for developmental biology, cell biology, physiology, pharmacology, neuroscience, models of human disease, stem cell science and regenerative medicine.

Our three research centres focus on translating laboratory research to the clinical environment: Bateson Centre, the Centre for Stem Cell Biology, and the Centre for Membrane Interactions and Dynamics.

Leaders in our field

We have a long track record of groundbreaking discoveries. These include breakthroughs in human stem cells for hearing repair, and the generation of animal models for Parkinson’s disease, schizophrenia, muscular dystrophies and their use for therapeutic studies.

Labs and equipment

We have purpose-built facilities for drosophila, zebrafish, chick and mouse genetics and for molecular physiology. Other facilities provide all the tools you’ll need to examine and analyse a range of cellular structures. We have an electron and a light microscopy centre, a PCR robotics facility, a flow cytometry unit and an RNAi screening facility.

Teaching and assessment

There are lectures, practical classes, tutorials and seminars. In small group teaching classes you’ll discuss, debate and present on scientific and ethical topics. Laboratory placements within the department provide you with one-to-one attention, training and support to do your individual research project. Assessment is by formal examinations, coursework assignments, debates, poster presentations and a dissertation.

Our teaching covers ethics, practical scientific skills and an overview of the current literature. You’ll also develop useful career skills such as presentation, communication and time management.

Core modules

Literature Review; Practical Research Project; Analysis of Current Science; Ethics and Public Understanding.

Examples of optional modules

Stem Cell Techniques; Practical Cell Biology; Practical Developmental Genetics; Bionanomaterials; Modelling Human Diseases; Stem Cell Biology.

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This course is for people already working in a healthcare setting (in areas including psychiatry, clinical and forensic psychology, occupational therapy, social work, nursing, general medical practitioners) who are interested in delivering Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) in clinical settings. It will provide sufficient theoretical and skills training and can develop your career as a therapist and the service you provide.

CBT is the model of psychotherapy most tested by research trials for a range of mental and even physical disorders, ranging from depression, anxiety and phobias to eating disorders, schizophrenia and chronic pain. Healthcare professionals are increasingly required to demonstrate a flexible, multidisciplinary approach to make the best use of skills and resources.

The NHS actively promotes provision of evidence-based management. CBT is the evidence-based psychotherapy par excellence. It can be effective as a stand-alone treatment and can also be used in conjunction with other medical or psychological treatments. The model is versatile and creative and its techniques can be used selectively in general medical, psychological and nursing practice, as well as informing whole courses of integrated treatment.

This course will help you refine your CBT skills, empower you to use the model in a range of clinical situations, and focus on the development of a respectful and pro-active relationship with patients. The therapeutic alliance is central to the delivery of CBT and the course will teach you to forge a positive collaborative relationship with patients as a means of improving and maintaining the patient’s mental health.

Teaching, learning and assessment

The teaching and learning methods used will encourage participative and independent learning and you will arrange to see patients one day per week. Assessment methods will include essays, audio recordings of therapy sessions, case studies and supervisor assessments. Class sizes are usually around 30 for the PgCert and 15 for the PgDip. The course is delivered by staff of NHS Lothian and Greater Glasgow.

Teaching hours and attendance

You will attend a 10-day induction block followed by a four day teaching block in the first week of every month. Links with industry/professional bodies On completion, you can apply to be accredited by the BABCP (British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies) in due course.

Modules

15 credits: CBT for Anxiety and Depression/ Principles of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy/ Research Skills in CBT/ Advanced CBT for Anxiety Disorders/ Introduction to Complex Adaptation of CBT 30 credits: Application of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy If studying for the MSc, you will also complete a dissertation of a research project within a chosen specialist area of CBT. The components of the dissertation will include: a research proposal; a literature review; and a paper for publication.

Careers

There is a growing demand for therapists specifically trained in this field. This course will enable you to develop your career and the service you provide.

Quick Facts

• Learn the theory and practice of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – the best evidenced psychotherapy in mental health.
• Core CBT competencies are developed through multiple methods, including lectures, workshops, role play, academic evaluation and close clinical supervision.
• As trainee therapists, students benefit from the vast experience of expert CBT practitioners from throughout the UK delivering on our specialist postgraduate teaching course.

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Neuroscience is a discipline concerned with the scientific study of the nervous system in health and disease. Research in the neurosciences is of considerable clinical impact considering the debilitating and costly effects of neurological and psychiatric disease. In this regard, a major goal of modern neuroscience research is to elucidate the underlying causes (genetic or environmental) of major brain diseases, and to produce more effective treatments for major psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and depression, and neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, motor neurone disease and epilepsy. Improved treatment strategies for brain disorders relies entirely on increased understanding gained from research which integrates molecular, cellular and clinical aspects of disease. In this regard it is clear that interdisciplinary approaches are necessary to understand the complex processes which underlie brain function in health and disease. This interdisciplinary philosophy is adopted in the delivery of our M.Sc. programme in Neuroscience, which is underpinned by the diverse research expertise available within Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience (TCIN).

Course Content:

This one-year M.Sc. course aims to provide a multidisciplinary training in the neurosciences, in topics ranging from molecular to behavioural. The course is ideal for students wishing to extend their specialised knowledge, and for those wishing to convert from their original degree discipline. The programme will equip participants with the skills necessary to progress into a career in biomedical, pharmaceutical or neuropsychological research. Instruction for the course consists of approximately 200 contact hours over two academic Terms to include lectures, laboratory practical sessions, journal club workshops and student-based seminars. Modules are assessed by a mixture of in course assessment and written examinations.

Specialist modules covered include:

Form and Function of the Nervous System, Biochemical Basis of Neuropharmacology, Neuropharmacology, Drug Development, Advanced Neuroimmunology, Experimental Neuroscience, Scientific Literature Skills, Neural Engineering, Neuroimaging Technology, Current Topics in Neuroscience, Cellular Neuroscience, and Research Skills.

The third Term consists of a research project on novel aspects of Neuroscience. Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience is a dynamic research environment with research spanning molecular/cellular neuroscience to clinical/translational neuroscience. Projects across these research areas may be undertaken in consultation with an expert supervisor. For students interested in a project in cellular/molecular neuroscience a range of cellular techniques such as tissue culture, immunocytochemistry, western immunobloting and immunoprecipitation, confocal microscopy, Immunoassays, flow cytometry, Real-time PCR, and high performance liquid chromatography are available. In addition, some projects will involve assessing behavioural, electrophysiological and neurochemical endpoints using in vivo models of neurological and psychiatric disease. For those with an interest in experimentation on human subjects, projects will be offered utilizing techniques such as functional magnetic resonance imaging and neurocognitive testing. A selection of national and international projects is also available, which involve collaboration with other academic institutes and pharmaceutical companies, in Ireland, UK and across Europe.

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The MSc in Bioengineering provides education and training to the next generation of biomedical engineers. Bioengineering is defined as the application of the principles of engineering to advancements in healthcare and medicine. Some of the most exciting work in biomedical engineering today takes place at the intersection of disciplines where the biological, physical and digital worlds intersect and have an impact on the human condition.

Students of the MSc in Bioengineering in Trinity College Dublin take lectures from experts in a variety of biomedical engineering subjects and carry out research in world class, state of the art research laboratories and facilities.

Students of the MSc in Bioengineering have the opportunity to specialise in one of three key research themes - neural engineering, tissue engineering and medical device design.

The MSc in Bioengineering with specialisation in Neural Engineering aims to provide students with the education needed to undertake neural engineering in research and clinical environments. Students receive a focused education on the key subjects of neural engineering such as Neural Signal Analysis, Implantable Neural Systems and Neuroimaging Technologies. Neural engineering has generated considerable scientific and clinical opportunities, not only for the development of interfaces between the brain and computers but also for its mostly untapped potential to help understand neurological disorders such as Parkinson's Disease or psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia.

The MSc in Bioengineering with specialisation in Medical Device Design is designed to bring together clinicians, researchers and the medical device industry to produce new solutions for clinical needs. The field of medical device research is a fast moving area which can offer students a rewarding career in the global medical device market. Students will gain a specific education of the key topics in medical device design process and a knowledge of medical device regulation.

The MSc in Bioengineering with specialisation in Tissue Engineering provides students with an understanding of stem cells, animal/human cell culture processes, and strategies to regenerate or repair damaged tissues. This exiting multidisciplinary field of research holds significant potential in the treatment of many diseases and disorders.

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About the course

This course blends theory and practice to help you develop the skills required for a career in molecular and cellular biology. Our teaching focuses on integrated mammalian biology and animal models of human disease, drawing on our pioneering biomedical research.

Where your masters can take you

Graduates with skills in stem cell and regenerative medicine are in demand. Your degree will prepare you for a career in research in academia or industry, or in a clinical-related field. Our graduates are working all over the world – from the UK to China, India and the USA – and over half go on to doctoral study.

Learn from the experts

The 2014 Research Excellence Framework (REF) rates us No 1 in the UK for research in this field. Our international reputation attracts highly motivated staff and students. Sheffield is a vibrant place to take a masters based on pioneering research.

Regular seminars from distinguished international experts help you to connect your studies to the latest developments. We’re also part of collaborative research groups for developmental biology, cell biology, physiology, pharmacology, neuroscience, models of human disease, stem cell science and regenerative medicine.

Our three research centres focus on translating laboratory research to the clinical environment: Bateson Centre, the Centre for Stem Cell Biology, and the Centre for Membrane Interactions and Dynamics.

Leaders in our field

We have a long track record of groundbreaking discoveries. These include breakthroughs in human stem cells for hearing repair, and the generation of animal models for Parkinson’s disease, schizophrenia, muscular dystrophies and their use for therapeutic studies.

Labs and equipment

We have purpose-built facilities for drosophila, zebrafish, chick and mouse genetics and for molecular physiology. Other facilities provide all the tools you’ll need to examine and analyse a range of cellular structures. We have an electron and a light microscopy centre, a PCR robotics facility, a flow cytometry unit and an RNAi screening facility.

Teaching and assessment

There are lectures, practical classes, tutorials and seminars. In small group teaching classes you’ll discuss, debate and present on scientific and ethical topics. Laboratory placements within the department provide you with one-to-one attention, training and support to do your individual research project. Assessment is by formal examinations, coursework assignments, debates, poster presentations and a dissertation.

Our teaching covers ethics, practical scientific skills and an overview of the current literature. You’ll also develop useful career skills such as presentation, communication and time management.

Core modules

Literature Review; Practical Research Project; Analysis of Current Science; Ethics and Public Understanding.

Examples of optional modules

Integrated Mammalian Biology; Practical Cell Biology; Practical Developmental Genetics; Cancer Biology; Modelling Human Diseases; Epithelia in Health and Disease.

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IN BRIEF:

• An opportunity to study new developments in CBT
• Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) has a crucial role to play in health and social care provision today
• Delivered by a highly qualified team of psychotherapy and counselling staff from a variety of professional backgrounds
• Part-time study option
• International students can apply

COURSE SUMMARY

You will gain an insight into how to use CBT creatively and collaboratively with clients and how to assess, formulate, provide interventions and evaluate your work with clients. This course focuses on interventions with clients who have anxiety and depression right through to people with addictions, personality disorder and schizophrenia as well as other complex needs. There are opportunities to study new developments in CBT, family interventions and how CBT is used with people who have physical health issues.

This course runs part-time for half a day per week over three years, or full-time for two half days per week.        

Depending on your level of experience and professional interests you can choose to study a variety of modules.     

TEACHING

Learning is delivered via blended learning methods including seminars and master classes, critical analysis of case studies, relevant literature and research and reflection on practical applications. Use of video/audio, role play and skills assessment are essential to this course in years one and two to ensure competency of the student in practising CBT. The use of Blackboard as a learning resource is also an important element in all of the modules on the course. It is anticipated that a generous part of this work will be focused on enhancing self-awareness and using CBT tools and techniques on the self using self-help texts and interactive activities. It is anticipated that if the students can use some CBT tools on themselves that this increases self-awareness of their own interpersonal issues and also assists in practicing methods on themselves prior to using these with clients.

Find out more about certain aspects of counselling with our short two minute psychotherapy lectures from Dr Mark Widdowson, lecturer in counselling and psychotherapy at the University of Salford.

Transactional Analysis

Life Script

Ego States

ASSESSMENT

• Tutor and peer practical in-class assessment
• Case studies
• Reflective assignments and portfolios of learning

EMPLOYABILITY

This Masters has been designed to meet the growing need for people to have the skill set to work with clients with complex needs or mild to moderate mental health issues.

Many of our students already have jobs, but inform us that this course enhances their level of employment, or offers a new career pathway. Examples of job titles in the NHS are CBT lead for mental health trust and cognitive behavioural psychotherapist/therapist.

LINKS WITH INDUSTRY

This course has been created after request from the North West Strategic Health Authority. Some students will be able to use the Service Level Agreement to fund these modules. Other students will self-fund or request funding from their employer.

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MSc Genes, Environment & Development in Psychology & Psychiatry provides interdisciplinary training in a range of behavioural genetics topics and research methods relevant to psychology and psychiatry. You will study three compulsory modules and undertake a research project that will cover the broad range of subject areas that are considered fundamental to an understanding of behavioural genetics.

Key benefits

- Offers specialised interdisciplinary graduate training in several subject areas and research methods.
- Taught by the MRC Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry (SGDP) Centre, a department recognised as a world-leader in the field of interdisciplinary studies in psychology, psychiatry and behaviour.
- Opportunity to attend the weekly SGDP Centre research seminars led by renowned researchers, such as Professor Francesca Happé, Professor Robert Plomin, Professor Terrie Moffitt and Professor Sir Michael Rutter.
- Extensive collaborations within King’s as well as with other universities.
- Students from diverse and rich backgrounds.
- Access to large sets of data for populations who have been studied and followed up over many years.
- Located in a beautiful modern building designed to foster interaction.
- Our state-of-the-art molecular genetics laboratory provides a complete suite of resources for research.

Visit the website: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught-courses/genes-environment-and-development-msc.aspx

Course detail

- Description -

Our interdisciplinary course covers the advances that have been made in behavioural genetics over recent years. It focuses on how genes and environments shape the development of normal and abnormal human behaviours, including cognitive ability, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorders (ASD), anxiety and depression and schizophrenia.

In addition to disorder characterisation and presentation of the genetic, social and other environmental risk factors, our programme also covers the molecular mechanisms and the specialised analysis methods relevant to interdisciplinary research in this field. By focusing on current research in this area, our programme will enhance your understanding of research methods and enable you to critically appraise the relevant scientific literature.

Our course also aims to provide a thorough grounding in a range of research methods and their application and to develop skills of critical evaluation, problem solving and intellectual rigour in order to carry out independent research. You will develop an awareness of the practical and ethical issues related to conducting, writing up and disseminating research and develop transferable skills and knowledge needed for a career in academic research.

- Course purpose -
We seek to increase your knowledge and understanding of behavioural genetics and social development, especially if you wish to convert from your original degree discipline and to equip you to apply it in your future career choice, either in further postgraduate education (e.g. PhD) or employment related to the subject.

Many recent advances in behavioural genetics have been made with growing evidence for the role of genes in shaping our behaviour. The purpose of our programme is to focus on how genes and environments influence the development of human behaviours, providing interdisciplinary training to students from a range of scientific backgrounds.

- Course format and assessment -

Mixture of essays, oral presentation, wet and dry lab assessments, research project, workshops, and poster presentation.

A full list of required and optional modules can be downloaded from our website: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught-courses/genes-environment-and-development-msc.aspx

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme are expected to go on to further full-time study in an academic research environment or in a taught clinical programme, gain employment in an academic, clinical or pharmaceutical organisation. Some students may enter scientific publishing.

How to apply: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/taught-courses.aspx

About Postgraduate Study at King’s College London:

To study for a postgraduate degree at King’s College London is to study at the city’s most central university and at one of the top 20 universities worldwide (2015/16 QS World Rankings). Graduates will benefit from close connections with the UK’s professional, political, legal, commercial, scientific and cultural life, while the excellent reputation of our MA and MRes programmes ensures our postgraduate alumni are highly sought after by some of the world’s most prestigious employers. We provide graduates with skills that are highly valued in business, government, academia and the professions.

Scholarships & Funding:

All current PGT offer-holders and new PGT applicants are welcome to apply for the scholarships. For more information and to learn how to apply visit: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/ioppn/study/prospective-students/Masters-Scholarships.aspx

Free language tuition with the Modern Language Centre:

If you are studying for any postgraduate taught degree at King’s you can take a module from a choice of over 25 languages without any additional cost. Visit: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/mlc

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Our unique MSc Early Intervention in Psychosis develops your academic and clinical skills in the identification and treatment of psychosis. Early intervention is an evidence-based, holistic and person-centered approach that is highly effective in promoting long-term recovery and is now an integral part of healthcare provision in the UK and worldwide. The programme combines teaching from experienced clinical academics, who have carried out pioneering work in this area, with a clinical placement in the National Health Service. It is ideal for psychology graduates and mental health professionals wishing to develop their academic and clinical skills and improve their career prospects. You will acquire expertise and experience relevant and applicable to all areas of mental health.

Key benefits

• The only MSc in Early Intervention in Psychosis worldwide.
• Integrated approach including biological, psychological and social perspectives.
• You will acquire expertise and experience applicable to all areas of mental health.
• Taught by clinicians and academics who have carried out pioneering work in this area.
• Opportunity to develop your own research ideas or join existing research projects.
• Individually tailored clinical placement in a world-class early intervention service within the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust.
•You will receive training and support with you career planning and progression.

Visit the website: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught-courses/early-intervention-in-psychosis-msc.aspx

Course detail

Description -

People who experience a psychotic illness, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and psychotic depression, can and do recover. However, long-term recovery is dependent on the timely delivery of effective treatment. The MSc Early Intervention in Psychosis develops your academic and clinical skills in the identification and treatment of psychosis. Early intervention is an evidence-based, holistic and person-centered approach that is highly effective in reducing the long-term impact of psychotic illness on the individual and their families. It has now become an integral part of mental health services in the UK and worldwide. The course combines biological, psychological and social perspectives, reflecting the multi-faceted nature of the illness. You will learn through classroom teaching and a clinical placement in an early intervention service within the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust. The knowledge and experience acquired on this course are relevant and applicable to all areas of mental health.

Our course is designed for students who want to develop their academic and clinical expertise and experience before applying for clinical psychology training. It is also ideal for mental health professionals (e.g. doctors, clinical psychologists, nurses) aiming to enhance their career prospects. Furthermore, it provides a robust foundation for students who aim to conduct further research at PhD level in the future.

You will be taught by mental health professionals with extensive experience in delivering early intervention in psychosis and academics who have carried out pioneering research in this area (e.g. Prof. Robin Murray, Prof. Philip McGuire, Prof. Paola Dazzan, Prof. Oliver Howes, Dr. Paolo Fusar-Poli, Dr. Andrea Mechelli).

As part of the course you will also receive training and support with your career planning and progression.

- Course format and assessment -

Format: classroom teaching; lab-based research project; clinical placement.
In order to facilitate part-time study, each classroom-taught module is run entirely on Mondays and Tuesdays and is concentrated within a four-week period.

Assessment: coursework; written examination; research dissertation

A full list of required and optional modules can be found on our website: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught-courses/early-intervention-in-psychosis-msc.aspx

Career prospects

The expertise and experience acquired on this MSc are relevant and applicable to all areas of mental health. Therefore, after completing this programme, you will be in a strong position to pursue a career in mental health. Most of our students go on to clinical psychology training (e.g. DClinPsy), other clinical training (e.g. IAPT) or a research position (e.g. PhD). Clinicians completing this programme have enhanced their career and/or obtained clinical research positions.

How to apply: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/taught-courses.aspx

About Postgraduate Study at King’s College London:

To study for a postgraduate degree at King’s College London is to study at the city’s most central university and at one of the top 20 universities worldwide (2015/16 QS World Rankings). Graduates will benefit from close connections with the UK’s professional, political, legal, commercial, scientific and cultural life, while the excellent reputation of our MA and MRes programmes ensures our postgraduate alumni are highly sought after by some of the world’s most prestigious employers. We provide graduates with skills that are highly valued in business, government, academia and the professions.

Scholarships & Funding:

The Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN) is offering a number of bursaries and scholarships to support students with the financial commitments of postgraduate study.

Find out more and apply http://www.kcl.ac.uk/ioppn/study/prospective-students/Masters-Scholarships.aspx

Visit the fees and funding webpages to find out more about bursaries, scholarships, grants, tuition fees, living expenses, student loans and other financial help available at King's. http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/fees-and-funding/index.aspx

Free language tuition with the Modern Language Centre:

If you are studying for any postgraduate taught degree at King’s you can take a module from a choice of over 25 languages without any additional cost. Visit: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/mlc

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Overview

The MSc Mental Health Research is suitable for graduates, trainees and professionals looking to acquire specialist knowledge in mental health and develop research skills, with a view to enhancing career progression.

On our MSc Mental Health Research you will:

- Develop knowledge and understanding of all the main areas of mental health
- Learn how to design, conduct and write up a research project for publication in a peer-reviewed journal
- Be taught by international experts from across all the main disciplines of mental health
- Learn to critically appraise current research in the field of mental health
- Learn how to work with others from different disciplines, including science, healthcare and education

Course details

This is the first MSc Mental Health Research in the UK to cover a broad range of topics within the mental health field combined with a focus on developing research skills in this field.

The course can be completed on a full-time basis over one year or a part-time basis over two years.

The course consists of 120 credits of taught modules and a further 60 credits are devoted to a research project.

Students can opt to complete the diploma (120 credits of taught modules) or certificate (60 credits of taught modules) instead of the MSc.

Modules

Modules consist of a mix of taught sessions, practical workshops and seminars. Modules include:

- Models and Approaches in Mental Health
- Introduction to Research Methods
- Topics in Child and Adolescent Mental Health
- Systematic Review of Treatment Effects in Schizophrenia
- Quantitative Research Methods
- Qualitative Research Methods
- Topics in Cognitive Neuropsychiatry
- Ageing and Dementia
- Forensic Mental Health
- Research Project

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Learn how different brain functions contribute to cognition, mediate social interaction, and determine mental health, well-being and psychiatric illness.

Who is it for?

This Masters is ideal for those who have an undergraduate degree in Psychology or a related discipline and would like to build more knowledge and skills highly valued both in academic research and the clinical professions. The MSc is an ideal platform from which to progress to PhD studies, particularly in Cognitive or Social Neuroscience. Students will also be well-equipped should they wish to undertake further professional training in Clinical Psychology, or a related discipline.

Objectives

This Masters degree bridges three research and clinical disciplines:
-Cognitive neuroscience (the study of human brain functions such as memory, perception and language).
-Clinical neuroscience (the understanding of neurological, psychological or psychiatric illness via their neural and cognitive antecedents).
-Social neuroscience (the investigation of brain processes that help us communicate, feel, learn and interact with others).

The major aim of this programme is to provide you with a thorough grounding in the neuroscience that underpins human cognitive brain function, clinical, social and affective interaction, and neuropathology.

Teaching will comprise of seminars, lectures, computing and statistics classes, and supervision of an individual research project. Your learning experience during the programme will be enhanced by an invited speaker’s programme of external experts who work in clinical, social or cognitive neuroscience.

Academic facilities

You will have access to all the facilities and laboratories in the Psychology Department. Our members have experience with a wide range of neuroscientific techniques, including neuropsychological testing, psychophysics and functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI).

We have particular strengths in the use of Electroencephalography (EEG), Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and Transcranial Electric Stimulation (a weak current applied to the scalp), in addition to measures of human behaviour (e.g. response times, response errors, and eye movements) and physiological measures (e.g. galvanic skin response and heart rate).

We test neurologically normal individuals, special populations (e.g. people with synesthesia) and people with expertise or acquired skills (e.g. dancers, musicians, athletes), as well as people with brain damage (e.g. neglect or split-brain patients), psychiatric diagnoses (e.g. schizophrenia), sensory deficits (e.g. visual and hearing impairments) and developmental disorders (e.g. dyslexia or autism).

Placements

We help facilitate Clinical placements and are able and offer Research placements within our department.

Clinical placements: Center for Psychological Wellbeing and Neuroscience (CPWN) in collaboration with City and Hackney Mind (CHM).

Teaching and learning

Teaching will be comprised of lectures, seminars, group work and discussions, workshops and tutorials, reports, computing and statistics classes and the individual research dissertation.

You will undertake independent study, supported by the teaching and learning team, and will receive detailed feedback on your coursework. You will be provided with assessment and grade-related criteria which will outline your intended learning outcomes, along with the skills, knowledge and attitudes you are expected to demonstrate in order for you to complete an assessment successfully. You will also be assigned a personal tutor as your primary contact, who will advise you on academic matters and monitor your progress through the programme.

You will find a supportive vibrant research environment in the Department. The course is taught by academics, who are internationally recognised experts in their field with different backgrounds in clinical, social and cognitive neuroscience.

Assessment

Your learning will be assessed through essays, examinations, oral presentations, research methods projects and interpretation of statistical analyses, formal research proposals and a dissertation.

Modules

The programme consists of eight taught modules worth 15 credits each with around 30-34 hours of face-to-face contact, supported by online resources and an empirical research project (worth 60 credits).

You will learn about the latest advances in clinical, social and cognitive neuroscience and develop an appreciation of the reciprocal nature of research and practice in these domains. For example how insights from functional neuroimaging inform our understanding of neurological disorders and how clinical observations inform neurocognitive modelling.

Course structure
-Principles of Neuroscience: Brain anatomy, techniques and paradigms
-Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience
-Mental Health, Well-being and Neuroscience
-Fundamental Processes in Cognitive Neuroscience & Neuropsychology I
-Fundamental Processes in Cognitive Neuroscience & Neuropsychology II
-Social Cognition and the Social Brain
-Statistical models and Research Methods and Programming
-Research Dissertation
-Invited speakers programme

Career prospects

This course will provide you with knowledge and skills highly valued both in academic research and the clinical professions. The MSc is an ideal platform from which to progress to PhD studies, particularly in Cognitive or Social Neuroscience. You will also be well-equipped should you wish to undertake further professional training in Clinical Psychology, or a related discipline.

The knowledge and skills you will acquire in this programme are highly valuable, whether you choose to pursue further research or an applied occupation. They will enhance your employability prospects in a wide range of sectors including the pharmaceutical industry, neuromarketing, the computing industry, science and the media, science and the arts, business or education.

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Master's specialisation in Medical Epigenomics

The only Master’s specialisation in the Netherlands covering the function of our epigenome, a key factor in regulating gene expression and in a wide range of diseases.
Our skin cells, liver cells and blood cells all contain the same genetic information. Yet these are different types of cells, each performing their own specific tasks. How is this possible? The explanation lies in the epigenome: a heritable, cell-type specific set of chromosomal modifications, which regulates gene expression. Radboud University is specialised in studying the epigenome and is the only university in the Netherlands to offer a Master’s programme in this field of research.

Health and disease

The epigenome consists of small and reversible chemical modifications of the DNA or histone proteins, such as methylation, acetylation and phosphorylation. It changes the spatial structure of DNA, resulting in gene activation or repression. These processes are crucial for our health and also play a role in many diseases, like autoimmune diseases, cancer and neurological disorders. As opposed to modifications of the genome sequence itself, epigenetic modifications are reversible. You can therefore imagine the great potential of drugs that target epigenetic enzymes, so-called epi-drugs.

Big data

In this specialisation, you’ll look at a cell as one big and complex system. You’ll study epigenetic mechanisms during development and disease from different angles. This includes studying DNA and RNA by next-generation sequencing (epigenomics) and analysing proteins by mass spectrometry (proteomics). In addition, you‘ll be trained to design computational strategies that allow the integration of these multifaceted, high-throughput data sets into one system.

Why study Medical Epigenomics at Radboud University?

- Radboud University combines various state-of-the-art technologies – such as quantitative mass spectrometry and next-generation DNA sequencing – with downstream bioinformatics analyses in one department. This is unique in Europe.
- This programme allows you to work with researchers from the Radboud Institute for Molecular Life sciences (RIMLS), one of the leading multidisciplinary research institutes within this field of study worldwide.
- We have close contacts with high-profile medically oriented groups on the Radboud campus and with international institutes (EMBL, Max-Planck, Marie Curie, Cambridge, US-based labs, etc). As a Master’s student, you can choose to perform an internship in one of these related departments.
- Radboud University coordinates BLUEPRINT, a 30 million Euro European project focusing on the epigenomics of leukaemia. Master’s students have the opportunity to participate in this project.

Career prospects

As a Master’s student of Medical Epigenomics you’re trained in using state-of-the art technology in combination with biological software tools to study complete networks in cells in an unbiased manner. For example, you’ll know how to study the effects of drugs in the human body.
When you enter the job market, you’ll have:
- A thorough background of epigenetic mechanisms in health and disease, which is highly relevant in strongly rising field of epi-drug development
- Extensive and partly hands-on experience in state-of-the-art ‘omics’ technologies: next-generation sequencing, quantitative mass spectrometry and single cell technologies;
- Extensive expertise in designing, executing and interpreting scientific experiments in data-driven research;
- The computational skills needed to analyse large ‘omics’ datasets.

With this background, you can become a researcher at a:
- University or research institute;
- Pharmaceutical company, such as Synthon or Johnson & Johnson;
- Food company, like Danone or Unilever;
- Start-up company making use of -omics technology.

Apart from research into genomics and epigenomics, you could also work on topics such as miniaturising workflows, improving experimental devices, the interface between biology and informatics, medicine from a systems approach.

Or you can become a:
- Biological or medical consultant;
- Biology teacher;
- Policy coordinator, regarding genetic or medical issues;
- Patent attorney;
- Clinical research associate;

PhD positions at Radboud University

Each year, the Molecular Biology department (Prof. Henk Stunnenberg, Prof. Michiel Vermeulen) and the Molecular Developmental Biology department (Prof. Gert-Jan Veenstra) at the RIMLS offer between five and ten PhD positions. Of course, many graduates also apply for a PhD position at related departments in the Netherlands, or abroad.

Our approach to this field

- Systems biology
In the Medical Epigenomics specialisation you won’t zoom in on only one particular gene, protein or signalling pathway. Instead, you’ll regard the cell as one complete system. This comprehensive view allows you to, for example, model the impact of one particular epigenetic mutation on various parts and functions of the cell, or study the effects of a drug in an unbiased manner. One of the challenges of this systems biology approach is the processing and integration of large amounts of data. That’s why you’ll also be trained in computational biology. Once graduated, this will be a great advantage: you’ll be able to bridge the gap between biology, technology and informatics , and thus have a profile that is desperately needed in modern, data-driven biology.

- Multiple OMICS approaches
Studying cells in a systems biology approach means connecting processes at the level of the genome (genomics), epigenome (epigenomics), transcriptome (transcriptomics), proteome (proteomics), etc. In the Medical Epigenomics specialisation, you’ll get acquainted with all these different fields of study.

- Patient and animal samples
Numerous genetic diseases are not caused by genetic mutations, but by epigenetic mutations that influence the structure and function of chromatin. Think of:
- Autoimmune diseases, like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus
- Cancer, in the forms of leukaemia, colon cancer, prostate cancer and cervical cancer
- Neurological disorders, like Rett Syndrome, Alzheimer, Parkinson, Multiple Sclerosis, schizophrenia and autism

We investigate these diseases on a cellular level, focusing on the epigenetic mutations and the impact on various pathways in the cell. You’ll get the chance to participate in that research, and work with embryonic stem cell, patient, Xenopus or zebra fish samples.

See the website http://www.ru.nl/masters/medicalbiology/epigenomics

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Neuropharmacology is the study of the effect of drugs on the brain. Research into diseases of the brain (e.g. schizophrenia, depression, Alzheimer’s Disease) and their treatment continues at an unprecedented rate. The purpose of this course is to provide students with an opportunity to acquire the theoretical and applied knowledge of neuropharmacology that will enable them to proceed into developing a career in neuropharmacological research.

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