Psychology

Psychology with a specialism in child development sits at the intersection of psychological science and the study of how human beings grow, learn and change from infancy through to adolescence. Child development is one of the most empirically rich areas within psychology, drawing on cognitive, social, emotional and biological research to understand how children acquire language, develop reasoning, form attachments and navigate the social world. Understanding these processes is not only scientifically fascinating but also practically important for education, healthcare, parenting and policy.

At London South Bank University, this three-year full-time BPS-accredited programme also includes a year abroad, giving you an international perspective on your studies. The degree builds a strong foundation in the core areas of psychology across the first two years, following the standard BSc Psychology pathway, before the child development specialism takes deeper focus in the later stages. You will engage with the science of mental, emotional and psychological development, developing both rigorous theoretical understanding and the ability to apply research skills with sensitivity and care.

The BPS accreditation provides the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership, the standard professional threshold for those wishing to progress towards chartered status in psychology.

Graduates from psychology programmes with a child development specialism are well positioned for careers in children's services, education, early years settings, social work, health visiting, clinical psychology training and research. Many pursue postgraduate qualifications in educational psychology, clinical psychology, child psychotherapy or social work, building towards professional registration in one of the applied psychology professions. The research and analytical skills developed through a BPS-accredited degree are also valued in policy, communications and the wider health and social care sector.