Child and Adolescent Mental Health

The MSc in Child and Adolescent Mental Health at University College London (UCL) is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to equip students with a deep understanding of the psychological, developmental, and clinical aspects of mental health issues affecting children and young people. This multidisciplinary course combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing graduates to work effectively in clinical, research, or policy settings related to child and adolescent mental health. Throughout the program, students explore a broad range of topics including developmental psychopathology, assessment and intervention techniques, the impact of familial and social factors, as well as the latest advances in research on mental health disorders among young populations. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, encouraging students to develop critical thinking and analytical skills necessary for research and clinical practice. Students also benefit from UCL’s strong links with leading healthcare institutions and research centers, providing opportunities for placements, workshops, and collaborations that enhance experiential learning. The program is suitable for professionals from diverse backgrounds such as psychology, social work, medicine, education, and nursing, who are committed to improving mental health outcomes in children and adolescents. Graduates of this MSc are well-equipped to pursue careers in clinical practice, academic research, policy development, or further postgraduate study such as a PhD. The program is delivered through a combination of taught modules, seminars, practical sessions, and independent research, culminating in a dissertation that allows students to explore a specific interest in child and adolescent mental health in depth. Overall, the MSc in Child and Adolescent Mental Health at UCL offers an rigorous and enriching learning experience designed to foster innovation, expertise, and leadership in addressing the complex mental health needs of young populations.

The programme will develop your ability to identify and analyse principles of policy, planning and management in child and adolescent mental health. You will gain professional, academic and research skills and understand how their application can improve clinical practice. You will increase your understanding of the impact of culture and diversity upon clinical theory and practice, and experience enhanced personal and professional development.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of five core modules (75 credits), three optional modules (45 credits) and a research dissertation (60 credits).

A Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits, one year part-time, flexible two to five years) is offered. The programme consists of five core modules (75 credits), and three optional modules (45 credits).

A Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits, one year part-time, two years flexible) is offered. Three core modules (45 credits) and a choice of one of the two remaining core modules (15 credits).

Core modules

• Introduction to Child and Adolescent Mental Health
• Neurodevelopmental Disorders in Child Mental Health
• Basic Research Methods in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
• Treatment in Child and Adolescent Mental Health – Pharmacological
• Interventions in Child and Adolescent Mental Health – Psychological

Optional modules

• International Child Mental Health
• Adolescent Mental Health and Transition to Adult Services
• Professionalism and Ethics in Child Mental Health
• Investigating Research
• Research Methods and Statistics

Dissertation/report

All MSc students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 10,000 to 12,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is taught through a combination of lectures, workshops, discussion, project work and independent and group study. Assessment includes written assignments, unseen written examinations, projects, oral presentations, group work, and the written dissertation.

Placement

We are able to offer a limited number of clinical placements in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services in various NHS Trusts. Places are not guaranteed and are based on availability.

The placements are a minimum of one day a week for a period of 8 weeks and will be supervised by medical and non-medical consultants within the service.

Placements are observational only and will not be formally assessed but may offer opportunities to participate in research studies and other academic and teaching activities in the host Trust.

The cost of the placement is in the range of £75 to £200.

Normally medical registration or an upper second-class UK Bachelor's degree in psychology, social work or nursing, or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. Applicants should preferably have clinical experience in a mental health, paediatric or educational setting.

The Child and Adolescent Mental Health program at University College London offers various financing options for prospective students. Tuition fees for UK students are structured annually and are subject to change each academic year, typically aligned with inflation and university fee policies. For international students, fees tend to be higher and are also reviewed annually, reflecting the comprehensive nature of the program and the advanced research facilities available at UCL.

Students are encouraged to explore a range of funding sources, including government-funded financial aid, scholarships, and sponsorship opportunities. UCL provides several scholarships and bursaries specifically aimed at supporting students pursuing degrees in mental health and related disciplines. These scholarships are often merit-based, considering academic achievement, research potential, and financial need. Candidates are advised to check eligibility criteria carefully and to submit applications well in advance of the deadlines.

Additionally, students may consider applying for research council funding if undertaking this program as part of a research degree or if they wish to integrate research projects into their studies. Such funding is highly competitive and typically requires a strong academic record, a research proposal, and sometimes industry or clinical sponsorship.

For students from the UK, student loans offered through the Student Loans Company are available to cover tuition fees and living costs, with repayment terms based on income post-graduation. International students might explore external funding sources from their home countries, including government scholarships, educational grants, or private foundations supporting international students studying in the UK.

UCL also provides guidance and support for students seeking part-time employment opportunities during their studies, which can contribute to their overall financial stability. The university's careers service offers advice on internships, work placements, and possible employment within the university.

In conclusion, financing the Child and Adolescent Mental Health program involves a combination of tuition fees, scholarships, government financial aid, research grants, and potential part-time work. Prospective students are encouraged to check the official university website and contact the admissions office for detailed, up-to-date information on available funding options, application procedures, and deadlines. Planning ahead and exploring multiple funding sources can significantly ease the financial burden and allow students to focus fully on their educational and research pursuits at UCL.

The MSc Child and Adolescent Mental Health at University College London is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to equip students with in-depth knowledge and practical skills to understand, assess, and treat mental health issues in children and adolescents. This program offers a multidisciplinary approach, integrating psychological, social, biological, and clinical perspectives to foster a holistic understanding of young people's mental health concerns. Students enrolled in the course benefit from extensive lectures, seminars, and case-based learning, which are led by leading experts in child and adolescent psychiatry, clinical psychology, social work, and related fields. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics including developmental psychopathology, psychiatric disorders in childhood and adolescence, trauma and resilience, assessment techniques, intervention strategies, and service delivery models. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based practices and the importance of ethical considerations when working with young populations. The program combines theoretical learning with practical experiences, often including placements or supervised clinical projects that enable students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. It is ideal for healthcare professionals, social workers, psychologists, educators, and other individuals aspiring to enhance their expertise in child and adolescent mental health. The course also promotes critical thinking and research skills, preparing students for future careers in clinical practice, academia, policy development, or leadership roles within mental health services. University College London’s strong links with NHS trusts and mental health organizations provide students with valuable networking opportunities and exposure to current clinical practices. Graduates of this program are well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to improving mental health outcomes for children and adolescents through innovative approaches and dedicated service delivery.