Keele University

What you'll study

This master's provides a blend of taught modules, practical training and an independent research dissertation. Core teaching covers developmental and clinical perspectives on child and adolescent mental health, evidence-based assessment and intervention approaches, and advanced quantitative and qualitative research methods.

• Developmental Psychopathology – theories and research on the emergence of emotional, behavioural and neurodevelopmental disorders across childhood and adolescence.
• Assessment and Formulation in Child Practice – standardised assessment tools, clinical formulation, risk assessment and case conceptualisation for use with children and families.
• Interventions for Children and Families – evidence-based psychological interventions (e.g. parent training, CBT adaptations for children, school-based approaches) and how to evaluate their effectiveness.
• Neurodevelopmental Conditions – identification, assessment and support strategies for autism spectrum conditions, ADHD and associated learning differences.
• Attachment, Parenting and Family Processes – the role of attachment and family systems in child development and therapeutic work with carers.
• Advanced Research Methods and Statistics – design, analysis and critical appraisal of child-focused research using both quantitative and qualitative approaches.
• Applied Practicum / Placement – supervised experience in a setting such as a school, community service or health clinic, applying assessment and intervention skills in real-world contexts.
• Dissertation – an independent research project on a topic in applied child psychology, supervised by academic staff and contributing to the evidence base in the field.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need a good undergraduate degree in psychology (or a related subject) with eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) of the British Psychological Society, or an equivalent academic qualification. Applicants without a psychology degree but with substantial relevant professional experience (for example in education, social care or youth work) may be considered and may be required to demonstrate evidence of research ability.

Other requirements include a personal statement outlining relevant experience and motivation, and academic references. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an accepted qualification. Applicants invited to interview may be asked about their experience working with children and families and their intended career pathway.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a range of roles in health, education, social care and third-sector services. Typical destinations include research assistant roles, practitioner posts in early intervention teams, behavioural support roles in schools, family support and youth work, and roles within charities and local authority services.

For those aiming to become chartered clinical or educational psychologists, the MSc provides a strong foundation but further professional doctorate-level training (such as a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology or a Doctorate in Educational Psychology) is required. The programme also supports progression to PhD study and careers in academic research, policy development and programme evaluation.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers a supportive, research-active environment with small-group teaching and close supervision for research projects. The university's School of Psychology brings together staff with active research interests in child and developmental psychology, providing opportunities to learn from ongoing studies and to contribute to translational research.

Keele has established links with local NHS services, schools and community organisations, which support placement opportunities and applied learning. Students benefit from campus facilities including dedicated psychology laboratories and observation suites, and from an emphasis on multidisciplinary perspectives that combines psychological science with health, education and social care practice.