Introduction

Concerned with the study of how humans change over time, our Developmental Psychology Master's programme provides you with a rigorous and detailed understanding of the discipline. The expertise gained from this course will give you an advantage in any career.

Through this programme, you will develop advanced insight into psychology while gaining further hands-on experience that will hugely benefit any career. Home to one of the world's largest centres for developmental psychology research, Lancaster specialises in infancy and childhood development and our department is one of the UK’s leading research groups in the discipline. In this setting, you will benefit from the world-leading research conducted by our staff.

Throughout the course, you will study five taught modules and one substantial research project. This will ensure you receive the breadth of skills and depth of knowledge to engage with a wide range of careers or to progress into further research and study. Three of the modules are compulsory in order to develop your fundamental skills and expertise in the discipline, ensuring you graduate with a state-of-the-art understanding of developmental psychology. In addition, you will extend and enhance your ability to analyse and interpret psychology data and gain a high level of advanced psychological research skills. A solid foundation in these skills will be invaluable as you progress into specialist psychology roles, such as clinical or forensic psychology or research.

All classes are taken alongside full-time students, but part-time students have some flexibility in deciding which taught modules to take in their first and second years. However, you will normally take three taught modules in your first year, and two taught modules, plus the dissertation, in your second year.

Assessment

Alongside your study, you will undertake an independent research project, supervised by a member of our research-active staff. This dissertation will allow you to apply all that you have learnt to a dissertation topic of your choice. As well as developing your conceptual understanding, research design, data analysis, and communication skills, this project will be an exciting learning experience that will give you the opportunity to prove your skills, interests, and enthusiasm. What you achieve in your project will be important evidence of your skills and knowledge for current or prospective employers to progress your career.

We teach using a mix of lectures, seminars and practical lab sessions, encouraging increasingly independent study as your degree progresses. You will carry out regular web assessments to make sure your learning is on track, as well as practical work, essays, written examinations, practical lab reports, and presentations.

Community

Our students are key members of a thriving academic community. We offer an excellent staff-to-student ratio and an open door policy to enable you to get to know your lecturers. We believe this fosters a productive learning environment, helping you to achieve your potential.

During your time at Lancaster, your programme director will serve as your academic tutor. They will be here to make sure that you reach your personal goals. You will also be able to call on help from the Director of Studies, teaching coordinators, and student learning advisors with any aspect of your studies. We strive to inspire and encourage our future psychologists.