University of Nottingham

What you'll study

The programme combines taught modules, practical training and an independent research project to give a broad and applied understanding of developmental disorders. Teaching covers theoretical models of typical and atypical development, assessment approaches, intervention science, and research methods appropriate for developmental populations.

• Theoretical perspectives on development – major frameworks for understanding cognitive, social and language development and their disruption in conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, ADHD and specific language impairment.
• Assessment and diagnostic practice – standardised assessment tools, observational methods, formulation and differential diagnosis, and ethical issues in assessment of children and families.
• Evidence-based interventions – parent-mediated approaches, behavioural and psycho-educational strategies, educational adaptations, and principles of intervention design and evaluation.
• Research methods and statistics – quantitative and qualitative approaches, longitudinal and developmental study design, measurement, and data analysis techniques commonly used in developmental research.
• Neurodevelopmental mechanisms – cognitive neuroscience perspectives, genetic and environmental influences on development, and neuroimaging or psychophysiological methods where available.
• Applied placement or practica – opportunities for supervised experience in schools, clinics or community settings to practise assessment and intervention skills (availability may vary).
• Dissertation – an extended empirical or systematic-review project supervised by academic staff, allowing students to specialise in an area such as assessment, intervention, or developmental mechanisms.

The programme is typically delivered through lectures, seminars, practical workshops, and supervised research. Assessment methods include essays, case reports, practical portfolios, presentations and the final dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good UK undergraduate degree (2:1 or above) or an international equivalent in psychology, education, neuroscience, speech and language therapy, or a related discipline. Applicants with a 2:2 may be considered if they have relevant professional experience with children or additional qualifications.

For applicants whose first degree is not in psychology, prior training or experience in developmental or educational settings is advantageous; some students without a psychology background are required to demonstrate grounding in psychological science or complete preparatory modules.

Where English is not the first language, applicants must meet the University's English language requirements. Certain applicants may also be asked to provide a personal statement, academic references and evidence of relevant experience.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of clinical, educational and research roles. Typical career paths include:

• Research assistant or coordinator roles in academic or clinical research projects focusing on child development and developmental disorders.
• Specialist support roles in schools, nurseries or local authority services working with children with additional needs.
• Clinical or therapeutic assistant posts in health services and third-sector organisations that support children and families.
• Progression to professional training routes such as doctoral clinical psychology, educational psychology or specialist post-graduate training in speech and language therapy (note: these professional routes usually require separate accredited qualifications and competitive selection).
• Policy, advocacy or commissioning roles within charities and organisations concerned with child development and disability.
• Further academic study such as a PhD in developmental psychology, neuroscience or education.

Why study at University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham offers a research-active environment with staff working across psychology, neuroscience, education and clinical disciplines, providing multidisciplinary supervision and teaching. Students benefit from links with local NHS trusts, schools and specialist services that support applied learning and placement opportunities.

Facilities relevant to the programme include experimental psychology laboratories and access to specialist training in assessment and intervention methods. The School provides structured research training and career development support, and the broader university offers dedicated student services, library resources and careers guidance to help graduates move into professional or research roles.