Nottingham Trent University

What you'll study

The programme combines theoretical and applied modules that cover typical and atypical development across childhood and adolescence, methods of assessment, and the planning and evaluation of interventions. Core themes include developmental psychopathology, neurodevelopmental differences, attachment and family systems, and the social and school contexts that shape child outcomes.

• Research methods and statistics – advanced quantitative and qualitative skills tailored to child‑centred research, data analysis and critical appraisal of evidence.
• Assessment and formulation – approaches to assessing cognitive, emotional and behavioural needs in children; psychometric considerations and observational methods.
• Intervention and therapeutic approaches – evidence‑based interventions delivered in clinical, community and educational settings (for example behavioural, CBT‑informed and family‑centred approaches).
• Neurodevelopment and special educational needs – understanding autism spectrum conditions, ADHD, learning differences and associated support strategies.
• Safeguarding, ethics and professional practice – legal, ethical and safeguarding responsibilities when working with children and families.
• Applied placement/practicum – an embedded placement or applied project with local services, schools or charities to develop practical experience of assessment and intervention.
• Dissertation/major research project – an independent empirical project supervised by academic staff, typically focused on applied child psychology topics and suitable for those considering doctoral study.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have an honours degree in Psychology or a closely related discipline. A good UK second‑class honours degree (2:1) is typically required; applicants with a 2:2 may be considered if they can demonstrate relevant professional experience or research potential. Some prior grounding in psychological research methods is expected.

Applicants without a psychology degree may be considered if they can show substantial relevant experience working with children and families and evidence of quantitative/research competence. Successful applicants will usually need to provide academic references and a personal statement outlining their experience and career aims. Where placements are part of the programme, students must be able to meet professional requirements such as an enhanced DBS check and any occupational health clearances. International applicants must meet the university's English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of roles in statutory, voluntary and private sectors that support children, young people and families. Typical destinations include:

• Research assistant roles in university departments or child‑focused research centres.
• Support and specialist practitioner roles in the NHS, local authority children’s services, CAMHS or community mental health teams.
• Educational support roles such as learning support coordinators, behaviour specialists or practitioners within schools and early years settings.
• Roles in charities and third‑sector organisations delivering family and child welfare interventions.
• Further professional training: the MSc provides research experience and subject knowledge that can strengthen applications for doctoral professional programmes (for example Doctorate in Clinical Psychology or Educational Psychology), though entry to those routes typically also requires additional supervised experience and a recognised undergraduate accreditation where required.

Why study at Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent University offers applied psychological training with strong links to local health, education and voluntary services, providing opportunities for placements and collaborative projects. The university houses research groups focused on child, family and community wellbeing, allowing students to draw on staff expertise in developmental psychopathology, family interventions and applied research methods.

Teaching blends lectures, small‑group seminars, practical skills sessions and supervised research, supported by modern campus facilities and specialist resources. Students benefit from employability support, a network of regional partner organisations for applied experience, and academic supervisors who are active researchers in child‑centred topics.