Developmental Sciences (MA / MSc) - 2013/2014 entry
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Overview
This programme allows you to gain an understanding of the role of the child’s environment through the study of the impact of the family, communities and other social networks in the child’s environment. You will explore the interaction of biology and social factors in the context of atypical developmental paths, such as those observed in dyslexia, autism and other developmental disorders.
Both the MA and the MSc are designed for graduates from psychology and related disciplines who are seeking to deepen their understanding of cutting-edge contemporary research in development science, as well as established practitioners and policy-makers wishing to update their training. The MA focuses on enabling you to reflect critically on existing knowledge; the MSc focuses on enabling you to carry out empirical research at postgraduate level.
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Why study this course at Birkbeck?
- Explore child development from diverse theoretical and applied perspectives.
- Be introduced to the biology of development through the study of genetics and developmental cognitive neuroscience.
- Combines Birkbeck’s strengths in biological, social and applied developmental research methods to provide students with an integrated understanding of child development.
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Course structure
Core modules:
- Child Development in a Social Context
- Genetics of Development
- Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience
- Family Studies
- Qualitative Methods
- Advanced Quantitative Methods
- Generic Research Skills.
MA only:
- Critical Book Review
- 10,000-word MA Dissertation: critical reading or theoretical research based on existing literature and previously published data.
MSc only:
- Ethics Proposal
- 10,000-word MSc Dissertation: a piece of empirical research or advanced quantitative analyses under the supervision of experienced staff.
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Study resources
The Department of Psychological Sciences has an outstanding research tradition, having achieved a top five ranking at the last UK research assessment exercises, with an outstanding international reputation in all aspects of developmental studies. You will have the opportunity to interact with world-class researchers in developmental science, attend research seminars organised by the department and a number of other local research centres and institutes.
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Further study opportunities
If you are interested in further research, we offer a PhD/MPhil in Psychology.
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Careers information
Graduates go on to careers as research psychologists, health or social workers, or in education or policy development.
Find out more about careers in psychology.
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Apply now
- How to apply
Please complete a supplementary application form in addition to the online application. This must include a statement of your proposed research, focusing on the research expertise of at least one member of our academic staff, so that we can provide adequate supervision.
- Online application
You can apply online from the link below.
- How to apply