Child Psychology

If you are interested in pursuing a research career in child or developmental psychology, or if you are a childcare professional wishing to enhance your knowledge, this course is ideal.

What will you study?

You will be introduced to the theories of child psychology and encouraged to consider them in relation to the ‘real world'. You will also cover the empirical research and theories of development psychology, with a focus on the implications for policy and practice.

In addition you will have the opportunity to study topics such as the application of developmental psychology to social policy, such as children within the legal system, social issues, education and school issues, and health; and the issues and factors influencing the development of children's relationships. You will also complete a dissertation on a topic of your choice.

Assessment

Essays, in-class tests, presentations, unseen examinations, laboratory reports and dissertation.

Core modules

• Applied Cognitive Development
• Applied Social Development
• Methods and Statistics for MSc Psychology
• Practical Research Skills in Psychology
• Psychology Dissertation
• Social Cognition: Understanding Others
• Theories of Developmental Psychology

Optional modules

• Atypical Development
• Children's Relationships
• Guided Research Activity A
• Volunteering with Children

What you need to apply for this courseA 2:1 honours degree or above in psychology or a closely related discipline.Students must also be able to demonstrate mathematical competency equivalent to grade C or above at GCSE level.Disclosure and Barring Service checkYou must obtain a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check once enrolled. Without this, you are not allowed to interview protected populations. However, it does not automatically enable you to work with children or other protected populations.InterviewsWe normally invite all applicants who fulfil, or are likely to fulfil, the admissions requirements for an interview with the course director or another senior member of the teaching team. International students based overseas can arrange for an interview by email or telephone.Prior learning - AP(E)LApplicants with prior qualifications and learning may be exempt from appropriate parts of a course in accordance with the University's policy for the assessment of prior learning and prior experiential learning. Contact the faculty office for further information. English Language Requirements IELTS band: 6.5 CAE score: (read more) Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) is part of the Cambridge English suite and is targeted at a high level (IETLS 6.5-8.0). It is an international English language exam set at the right level for academic and professional success. Developed by Cambridge English Language Assessment - part of the University of Cambridge - it helps you stand out from the crowd as a high achiever. 75 (Grade B) IMPORTANT NOTE: Since April 2014 the ETS tests (including TOEFL and TOEIC) are no longer accepted for Tier 4 visa applications to the United Kingdom. The university might still accept these tests to admit you to the university, but if you require a Tier 4 visa to enter the UK and begin your degree programme, these tests will not be sufficient to obtain your Visa. The IELTS test is most widely accepted by universities and is also accepted for Tier 4 visas to the UK- learn more.

Kingston University bursaries

Bursaries of up to £500 for Kingston University alumni (Home/EU only).

Annual Fund postgraduate scholarships

The Development Office offers a number of postgraduate scholarships for UK and EU students.

They are available for all courses (except teacher training/PGCE courses) and will pay 50% of the fees (up to £3,000 for the 2012/13 academic year) for a one-year, full-time or two-years, part-time masters programme.

International scholarships

The International Office is offers awards totalling £250,000 every year, with each scholarship worth £3,300. These are open to prospective full-time postgraduates in any subject area on a one-year taught masters degree.

You can apply for an international scholarship if you:

• are an international student (classified as 'overseas' for fee purposes);
• have an offer of a place on a course at Kingston for 2012/13 entry; and
• are not currently registered on a postgraduate course at Kingston University.

You might also be eligible for an international loyalty bursary if you are an overseas Kingston University alumnus or have a family connection with the University.