Find out more about studying MSc Child and Adolescent Mental Health at Leeds Beckett University? We've gathered all the key details, entry requirements, modules, fees, and more. Take the next step by booking an open day to explore it for yourself.
MSc - Master of Science
City Campus
Part Time
Sep 2027
2 Year
Unlock critical insights into child and adolescent mental health as you draw on research-driven perspectives to inform best practice. As part of this master’s course, you’ll: Develop a critical and in-depth understanding of mental health and its relationship to children, young people and families within a changing and fluid society Explore medical and psychological models of practice and look at child and adolescent mental health from the position of social intervention Learn to draw on key interventions such as social pedagogy, relationship-based practice, playwork and community work as methodologies Use the social model of mental health and children and family practice to contribute to and co-produce knowledge in a collaborative, practical and participatory learning environment Gain a deep understanding of, and ability to employ a range of social and therapeutic evidence-based practices for working with children and adolescents experiencing mental distress Critically assess and evaluate new and evolving models within child and adolescent mental health practice Develop your network Learn via lectures, seminars, and workshops that will develop your peer-learning networks. You’ll be taught by experienced mental health practitioners and academic staff who will share their professional experience to enhance your learning.
Gain an insight into the environment and framework surrounding mental health care provision for children and adolescents. You'll be introduced to models of practice, critical theory and social policy relating to child and adolescent mental health. Key areas of focus will include infant and child development, child safeguarding, and mental health promotion strategies. By the end of the module, you'll be prepared to critically reflect on the socio-political context of child and adolescent mental health practice.
Develop a critical awareness of neurodevelopmental disorders, focusing on their aetiology, prevalence and assessment within child and adolescent mental health services. This module will cover conditions such as ADHD, autism, sleep disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Fragile X and other genetic syndromes, as well as Tourette's and epilepsy. You'll explore the assessment, treatment and management of these key disorders within a community setting. Finally, you'll reflect on the implication these conditions present for a transition into adult life.
Gain a grounding in the theoretical, methodological and practical approaches to social research, enabling you to act as a social researcher and resolve practice-based problems. This module enables you to select, devise, analyse and synthesise research and evidence-based practice findings. You'll investigate sources and the nature of evidence, ethical considerations and research theories and approaches as you formulate a research proposal and working hypothesis. We'll consider things like design options, methodologies, project planning, fieldwork preparation, validity and reliability and data analysis. We'll also cover a range of research methodologies, linking these with problem appraisal and appropriate design choices.
Explore a range of communications skills, therapeutic approaches and models of intervention for working with children, young people and families. This module offers a critical insight into traditional clinical practices. We'll examine social and psychological interventions placing children, young people and families within a community-based psycho-social context. Upon completion, you'll be equipped with the skills to make informed choices and recommend appropriate therapeutic techniques.
Understand your place in the world as a practitioner. In this module, you'll study critical macro-theory relating to globalisation and its impact on child and adolescent mental health. We'll examine the global factors that shape our lived experiences, such as social dynamics, political situations, economic conditions and technological advancements. Ultimately, you'll gain a broad perspective on how these forces influence individuals and communities in their everyday lives.
Plan, carry out and report on an original, advanced and independent piece of research with guidance from a supervisor. During this process, you'll show initiative and responsibility as well as the capacity to reflect on evidence as you link your research theory to practice. This module aims to enhance your individual knowledge and skills appropriate to master's level study while encouraging personal and professional development.
