Psychology - Applied Developmental Psychology

Overview

Applied developmental psychology is the application of basic developmental science in applied contexts. The School of Psychology has expertise in development in adverse contexts and atypical development in an educational context and the teaching on the course, as well as the topics offered for dissertations, will reflect this expertise. The school also has expertise in basic developmental science which will be an important element of the course. The topics covered in the MSc include: quantitative and qualitative research methods, atypical development in the classroom, childhood adversity: from basic science to improving outcomes, and theoretical perspectives on child and adolescent development.



This MSc aims to provide graduate students with an opportunity for advanced study in specialist topics in the field of applied developmental psychology and to prepare graduate students for more advanced research in applied developmental psychology, professional training in psychology or other discipline-related professional training.



It also aims to provide graduate students with an opportunity for advanced study in specialist topics in the field of applied developmental psychology.



Course Structure

This MSc is one-third research methods and analysis, one-third applied developmental psychology content and one-third dissertation.

Year 1

Core Modules

Theoretical Perspectives on Child and Adolescent Development (20 credits)

Atypical Development In An Educational Context (20 credits)

Applied Research Methods (20 credits)

Dissertation Applied Developmental Psychology (60 credits)

Childhood Adversity: From Basic Science To Improving Outcomes (20 credits)

Data Analysis (20 credits)



Optional Modules

Introduction to Therapeutic Skills (20 credits)

Placement Applied Developmental Psychology (20 credits)

Graduate

Normally a 2.1 Honours degree or above in Psychology or an acceptable related discipline, or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University.



Applicants with work experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis. The University's Recognition of Prior Learning Policy provides guidance on the assessment of experiential learning (RPEL).



External:

An external medical or dental student wishing to intercalate must have successfully completed all assessments at first attempt for the year in which they are applying. External intercalating applicants should also ensure they have the permission of the Head of Undergraduate Medical/Dental Education or equivalent from their home University.

Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible and ideally no later than 30th June 2025 for courses which commence in late September. In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal prior to the deadline stated on course finder. Notifications to this effect will appear on the application portal against the programme application page.



Applications for this course received after 30th June 2025 may not be accepted. In addition, a deposit will be required to secure a place.

Assessment

We will assess your performance in a variety of different ways


Coursework essays

Literature reviews

Posters

Proposals

Portfolios

Presentations

Dissertation

Policy briefings

1 year (Full Time), 2 years (Part Time)

Entry Year: 2025/26

Career Prospects

Professional Opportunities

The programme is designed to prepare graduate students for more advanced research in developmental psychology, for professional training in psychology or related disciplines, and/or for employment in children's voluntary or statutory services. It will also provide graduates with the research skills and knowledge to carry out a PhD in developmental psychology and/or in childhood studies, and to pursue an academic career.



Queen's postgraduates reap exceptional benefits. Unique initiatives, such as Degree Plus and Researcher Plus bolster our commitment to employability, while innovative leadership and executive programmes alongside sterling integration with business experts helps our students gain key leadership positions both nationally and internationally. http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/careers/