Developmental Sciences

Our MA/MSc Developmental Sciences is designed to give you an understanding of the role of the child’s environment through the study of the impact of the family, communities and other social networks. You will explore the interaction of biology and social factors in the context of atypical developmental paths, such as those observed in dyslexia, autism and other developmental disorders.

The programme is designed for graduates from psychology and related disciplines who seek to deepen their understanding of cutting-edge contemporary research in developmental science, as well as established practitioners and policy-makers wishing to update their training. The MA allows you to reflect critically on existing knowledge and the MSc to carry out empirical research.

• The degree combines Birkbeck’s strengths in biological, social and applied developmental research methods to provide you with an integrated understanding of child development.
• You will have the opportunity to interact with world-class researchers in developmental science and attend research seminars organised by the Department and a number of other local research centres and institutes.
• Psychological Sciences at Birkbeck were ranked fifth in the UK in the most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF), and we achieved 100% for a research environment conducive to research of world-leading quality.
• Psychology at Birkbeck is ranked third best in London, ninth in the UK and 85th globally in the 2019 Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject.
• ESRC funding may be available in conjunction with PhD study.