Developmental Sciences
MA
Birkbeck, University of London

Key Course Facts
Course Description
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 course 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 focuses on enabling you to reflect critically on existing knowledge, and the MSc focuses on carrying out empirical research at postgraduate level.
Highlights
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The degree combines Birkbeck’s strengths in biological, social and applied developmental research methods to provide you with an integrated understanding of child development.
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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.
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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.
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ESRC funding may be available in conjunction with PhD study.
Entry Requirements / Admissions
Requirements for international students / English requirements
IELTS academic test score (similar tests may be accepted as well)
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- 6.5
- Mphil / PhD
Get advice on which foundation courses are best for you to still study Brain and Cognitive Development, MA, if you do not meet the minimum requirements in terms of UCAS score, A levels, or English language 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.
Costs
Tuition Fees Developmental Sciences MA
England UK | £5370 | year 1 |
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Northern Ireland | £5370 | year 1 |
Scotland | £5370 | year 1 |
Wales | £5370 | year 1 |
International | £8745 | year 1 |
Additional fee information
Average student cost of living in London
Rent | £518 |
Water, gas electricity, internet (at home) | £50 |
Supermarket shopping | £81 |
Clothing | £35 |
Eating out | £33 |
Alcohol | £27 |
Takeaways / food deliveries | £30 |
Going out / entertainment (excl.alcohol, food) | £24 |
Holidays and weekend trips | £78 |
Transport within city | £17 |
Self-care / sports | £20 |
Stationary / books | £13 |
Mobile phone / internet | £13 |
Cable TV / streaming | £7 |
Insurance | £51 |
Other | £95 |
Average student cost of living | £1092 |
London costs approx 34% more than average, mainly due to rent being 67% higher than average of other cities. For students staying in student halls, costs of water, gas, electricity, wifi are generally included in the rental. Students in smaller cities where accommodation is in walking/biking distance transport costs tend to be significantly smaller.
University Rankings
Positions of Birkbeck, University of London in top UK and global rankings.
See all 15 university rankings of Birkbeck, University of London
About Birkbeck, University of London
Birkbeck, University of London (BBK) was established in 1823, and takes a different stance towards admissions than many other universities. Applicants are encouraged by BKK to apply even if they don’t possess the traditional qualifications normally required, as applications here are also considered based on an assessment of your knowledge on the subject, and any work experience you might have. Being located in the very centre of London, students will have all the advantages of the city’s public transport connections, as well as the chance to live in such a diverse and vibrant city with all that it offers.
Student composition of Birkbeck, University of London
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Students by level of study Academic year 2020/21 - Full-time equivalent student enrollments published by Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) on 10 February 2022
- undergraduates:
- 5360
- postgraduates:
- 3160
- Total:
- 8520
List of 573 Bachelor and Master Courses from Birkbeck, University of London - Course Catalogue
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