Developmental Science and Neurodiversity,MA

Birkbeck, University of London

United Kingdom, London

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408

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Home/United Kingdom/London /Birkbeck, University of London/Developmental Science and Neurodiversity,MA

Birkbeck, University of London

United Kingdom , London

Key Facts

Program Level

Master by Course Work

Study Type

Full Time

Delivery

On Campus

Campuses

Main Site

Program Language

English

Start & Deadlines

Next Intake DeadlinesSeptember-2026

Apply to this program

Go to the official application for the university

Duration 1 year(s)

Tuition Fee

GBP 22,230 / year

Next Intake September-2026

Developmental Science and Neurodiversity,MA

About

Course Overview

The MA/MSc Developmental Science and Neurodiversity offers you an exciting journey into understanding how humans grow and thrive. You will have the chance to explore the amazing ways that both our biology and the world around us shape who we become, and how this knowledge can be used to improve children’s lives. You will also dive into the diverse experiences of children, including those who think and learn differently, and uncover the latest discoveries that are changing the way we support all kinds of human development.

Why choose this course?

Whether you are passionate about unlocking the secrets of a child's mind or eager to make a real difference in the lives of neurodivergent individuals, this course offers you a vibrant and dynamic environment to fuel your curiosity and drive.
Our course modules cover everything you need to know about how humans develop, including genetics, neurodiversity and brain science.
The course is closely linked to Birkbeck’s Centre for Cognitive and Developmental Neuroscience (CBCD). This world-class research centre, with its Babylab and the first-ever ToddlerLab, offers you a welcoming and inspiring place to work on your dissertation.
This course is ideal if you are a graduate of psychology or a related discipline and are seeking to deepen your understanding of cutting-edge contemporary research, or if you are an established practitioner or policymaker wishing to update and expand your training and knowledge.

What you will learn

This Master’s course is about helping you think critically. You will learn from leading experts about how we think, how our brains work, neurodiversity, and research happening all over the world.

After completing the course, you could go on to a PhD, work in education, advance in a career supporting special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), or help shape policies and child development projects globally.

Depending on your interests or career aspirations, you can choose to gain either an MA or an MSc. For the MA you will undertake a dissertation that explores and critically evaluates existing research in developmental science and neurodiversity, allowing you to develop a deeper understanding of the field. To gain an MSc award, you will undertake a dissertation project in which you will get the chance to create, carry out and analyse your own unique research within the CBCD or our School of Psychological Sciences.

How you will learn

This MA/MSc Developmental Science and Neurodiversity is available to study full- or part-time, with classes held during the daytime and evening. You will learn through engaging lectures and interactive seminars led by researchers from all over the globe.

Discover the career opportunities available by taking Developmental Science and Neurodiversity (MA, MSc).

Requirements

Entry Requirements

A second-class honours degree (2:2) or above in psychology, cognitive science, education, behavioural sciences or relevant discipline.

Relevant professional experience of childhood and development may also be considered.

Applications are reviewed on their individual merits and your professional qualifications and/or relevant work experience will be taken into consideration positively. We actively support and encourage applications from mature learners.

On your application form, please list all your relevant qualifications and experience, including those you expect to achieve.

Apply now to secure your place. The earlier you apply, the sooner your application can be considered and you can enrol. You do not need to have completed your current qualification to start your application.

English Program Requirements

If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, the requirement for this course is the equivalent of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Test) score of 6.5, with not less than 6.0 in each of the sub-tests.

If you don't meet the minimum IELTS requirement, we offer pre-sessional English courses and foundation programmes to help you improve your English language skills and get your place at Birkbeck.

Visit the International section of our website to find out more about our English language entry requirements and relevant requirements by country.

Career

Graduates can pursue career paths in psychology, health or social work, education and policy development. Possible professions may include:

psychologist
counsellor
researcher
further education lecturer
working with neurodiverse populations.

Some of our graduates from this course have gone on to progress their studies further at PhD level. They have also found employment in:

primary and secondary schools
NHS
charities focused on improving child development.

We offer a comprehensive careers service - Careers and Enterprise - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education and future ambitions.