COURSE CURRICULUM

The first year of the Cognitive Development and Disorders MSc is structured to provide students with a comprehensive foundation in both theoretical knowledge and practical research skills. Compulsory modules cover a broad range of topics essential to understanding cognitive development and its disorders. Students engage with advanced research issues in psychology, exploring current debates and methodologies within the field. The MSc Research Project forms a central component, offering an opportunity to design and undertake an extended, independent research study under expert supervision, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical investigations. Modules in neuropsychology and neuroscience, as well as neurotypical and diverse development, provide a detailed understanding of typical and atypical cognitive development across the lifespan, including the impact of developmental disorders. Students study the psychology of ageing and dementia, gaining insight into cognitive changes in older populations and strategies for assessment and intervention. The curriculum also emphasizes rigorous research methods and evidence synthesis, with modules in advanced research methods and systematic review equipping students with skills in experimental design, data analysis, and critical evaluation of scientific literature. Overall, the first year integrates theoretical, practical, and research-oriented training, preparing students to conduct high-quality research and apply their knowledge to educational, clinical, and health-related contexts.