Psychodynamics of Human Development (MSc / Postgraduate Diploma) - 2013/2014 entry

This programme, established in 1996, provides an understanding of human development through the theoretical and clinical issues raised by infant observation, work study seminars and through psychoanalytic and Jungian analytic theories. This includes recent research in child development and contemporary issues in psychodynamic or Jungian analytic theory. For the MSc, you will also be taught research methods and will complete an empirical or theoretical dissertation.

This course is designed to provide:

• professional and personal development for those working in settings such as community care, counselling, social services, primary care, mental health and education
• a foundation, including accredited infant observation, for those considering psychotherapy training
• fulfilment of the entry requirements for a Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy Doctorate.

For more information, read our 2012–2013 programme handbooks from Year 1 and Year 2.

• A valuable opportunity to combine the knowledge of practising clinicians from a leading psychotherapy training institution with the research expertise of an internationally recognised university department.
• Infant observation component provides experiential learning that can be accredited for psychotherapy training.
• Choose between psychoanalytic and Jungian analytic approaches.

The MSc Psychodynamics of Human Development is taught jointly by Birkbeck and the British Association of Psychotherapists (BAP).

BAP was founded in 1951 and is one of the longest established and largest independent providers of Jungian analytic and psychoanalytic psychotherapy for adults and children in the UK. It promotes the knowledge and application of psychotherapy and the training and competence of psychotherapists.

• Psychoanalytic or Jungian analytic theory of the nature and development of mental life and key concepts used in clinical work
• infant and child development through observation and weekly discussion seminars
• the application of psychoanalytic or Jungian analytic theory to the work setting
• research methodology and critical analysis.

Students have access to library facilities at Birkbeck, Senate House and the BAP. All postgraduates at Birkbeck benefit from a wide range of advantages related to the central location of the College, its varied and rich postgraduate life, the diversity of overlapping Master’s programmes and Birkbeck academic institutes which provide regular talks and seminars which students can attend.

If you are interested in further research, we offer a DPsychotherapy in Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy.

Graduates can apply for training in child and adolescent psychotherapy, or in adult psychoanalytic or Jungian analytic psychotherapy. 

Learning objectives

On successful completion of this course, you should be able to:

• demonstrate a critical understanding of a range epistemological issues and display a range of related skills
• identify relevant and practicable research projects and appropriate methodologies in the field of psychoanalytic or Jungian analytic studies, infant observation and child development and lifespan studies
• demonstrate a systematic understanding of psychoanalytic theory or Jungian analytic theory and its application
• demonstrate enhanced awareness and understanding of human development and interaction
• develop and pursue a programme of research and communicate the findings in written form
• demonstrate increased understanding of clients' communication and of the therapeutic process
• critically evaluate the impact of different organisational structures and other work settings on the therapeutic dynamic.

Important note: please indicate whether you are applying for the psychoanalytic or Jungian analytic stream on your application form.

• Applications are accepted throughout the year, but early application is encouraged (before April to start in October).