Developmental Psychopathology MSc

Durham University

The course is delivered predominantly through a mixture of lectures, seminars and workshop classes. Lectures provide key information on particular topics in the area of typical and atypical development. Seminars are held in order for smaller group teaching to take place, with focused discussion on specific topics. Finally, practical and workshop classes allow students to gain direct experience, particularly in how to use statistical tools. The balance of this type of activity varies as a function of the module. This is a one year course, with students having a summer term to work on their dissertation- related activities. Students typically attend approximately 12 hours a week comprising lectures, tutorials and seminars. Outside timetabled contact hours, students are also expected to undertake their own independent study to prepare for their classes and broaden their subject knowledge, as well as completing their dissertation. Independent study is a key element to the course, with complex factors raised in lectures that do assume some prior knowledge of the topic area. The course is divided into three parts. One third, comprising three modules, is of subject specific topics related to developmental psychology and developmental psychopathology (with a focus on neurodevelopmental diversity). A further three modules focus on research skills, such as critical thinking abilities and statistical knowledge, that are necessary to understand developmental psychology and developmental psychopathology. The final third of the programme is the dissertation, which reflects on the culmination of learning and practical endeavours from throughout the course via the production of an independent and original body of research material. This is performed under supervision with a member of staff, with meetings varying in duration and frequency throughout the year as a function of the needs of the research project and the student. Assessment includes examinations, written assignments, and the completion of your dissertation.