ucl phd in psychology

Developmental Neuroscience and Mental Health, MPhil/PhD

This four-year international PhD programme is a unique graduate programme for exceptional students in the field of developmental psychology, neuroscience and mental health.

We are now taking applications for the 2025/26 intake starting in September 2025.

About this programme

The UCL–Yale Doctoral Training Programme in Developmental Neuroscience and Mental Health is a unique graduate program for exceptional students in the field of developmental psychology, neuroscience, and mental health. It brings together two of the world’s leading research universities, with an outstanding track record of research across these domains (both UCL and Yale are consistently ranked in the top 10 universities world-wide in psychology) in partnership with Anna Freud and the Child Study Centre at Yale.

The focus of this four-year international PhD programme on developmental psychopathology drawing on multidisciplinary perspectives, with a specific emphasis on neuroscience. Students spend their first two years in London, based at Anna Freud and UCL and years 3 and 4 at Yale University in New Haven, USA.

Who can apply?

We would like to invite applications from Home and Overseas candidates with:

An upper second class honours degree of a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard obtained after a programme of study extending over not less than three years in a university (or educational institution of university rank), in a subject appropriate to that of the programme to be followed; or

A registerable qualification appropriate to the programme to be followed awarded by a UK university; or a qualification of an equivalent standard appropriate to the programme to be followed awarded by a university (or educational institution of university rank) outside the UK; or

A Masters degree from a UK University in a subject appropriate to the programme to be followed; or iv) A professional or other qualification obtained by written examinations and approved by UCL as an appropriate entrance qualification for the MPhil or PhD degree in question.

Applicants should also consult the relevant departmental/divisional admission requirements. In addition to meeting the above criteria, candidates with a strong academic background in psychology, neuroscience, medicine or related disciplines are encouraged to apply and your application would be welcomed.

Applicants are required to briefly outline a research proposal for their PhD. The proposal should include sections on theoretical background as well as a proposed methods. Applicant should consider the fit with the broader remit of the programme but without a specific supervisor in mind and should not get in touch with possible supervisors in advance. The proposal should be no longer than 750 words.

Career prospects

Many students who complete a PhD in the division stay in academia, either going on to become postdoctoral researchers or research assistants, and ultimately lecturers. Some go on to further training in fields such as clinical psychology, educational psychology, consultancy or applied research. A PhD degree taken here is recognised both nationally and internationally as a qualification of the highest status.

There is one fully funded PhD studentship available for September 2025 entry for home students. The studentship offers full home (UK) fees as well as funding for research costs, training and travel. A demonstratorship will also be offered in return for teaching/demonstrating undertaken at Anna Freud.

Further information

For more information about the programme, including content, structure or to make an application, please visit the UCL website.

For all enquiries related to this programme, please contact the Programme Officer.

Programme guide

Find out more about the Developmental Neuroscience and Mental Health, MPhil/PhD programme.

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Course type

Qualification, university name, phd degree psychology courses at university college london.

7 courses available

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About Postgraduate Psychology

Psychology is the study of the human mind, and the types of behaviours shown by individuals and groups of people. It encompasses many factors, including biological influences, social pressures, and environmental factors, and considers both the conscious and unconscious mind. A PhD program in psychology is among the highest formal qualifications which you can study, and involves intensive and extended research projects, designed for individuals who aspire to become leading authorities in the field of human behaviour and cognition.

To qualify for admission to one of the 27 psychology PhD programmes in London, applicants need a strong academic background, including a bachelor's and master's degree in psychology or a closely related field. There are 14 universities which offer PhD courses, and you’ll need to demonstrate prior research experience and a clear project proposal as part of the application process. London is a great place to study a PhD offering students access to top facilities, a large scientific community, and diverse research opportunities.

What to expect

Psychology PhD programmes in London generally range from three to six years in duration, depending on whether you study on a full-time or part-time basis. The course requires long periods of self-driven study, dedication and intellectual rigour. You’ll engage in advanced coursework and statistical analysis, working closely with faculty mentors to develop a specialism in an area of psychology such as specialisation in areas such as clinical psychology, cognitive psychology or social psychology.

Upon completion, you’ll be well placed for careers in academia, research, clinical practice or business organisations, where expertise in human behaviour is vital. PhD programmes meet the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) education and training standards and carry full accreditation from the British Psychological Society (BPS).

Related subjects:

• PhD Psychology
• PhD Behavioural Psychology
• PhD Clinical Psychology
• PhD Cognitive Psychology
• PhD General Psychology
• PhD Human Sexuality
• PhD Psychology Specialisations

• Course title (A-Z)
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• Price: high - low
• Price: low - high

Psychology and Human Development MPhil/PhD

University college london.

Our profile as a department focuses principally on psychology (particularly in relation to education) and special educational needs (SEN). Read more...

• 5 years Part time degree: £3,790 per year (UK)
• 3 years Full time degree: £7,580 per year (UK)
• 3 years Full time degree

Gender and Sexuality Studies MPhil/PhD

Gender and Sexuality Studies is an inter-faculty programme drawing on the unique breadth of disciplines for which UCL is renowned. The Read more...

• 5 years Part time degree: £3,015 per year (UK)
• 3 years Full time degree: £6,035 per year (UK)

Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology MPhil/PhD

We are the world's leading integrated department of applied psychology, focusing on the implementation of groundbreaking research to Read more...

Behavioural Science and Health MPhil/PhD

UCL's Research Department of Behavioural Science and Health carry out cutting-edge research and provide high quality teaching into the Read more...

Language and Cognition MPhil/PhD

We are at the forefront of research in human speech, language and communication investigating core issues in the development of spoken Read more...

Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience MPhil/PhD

The Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience (ICN) PhD students are based in a truly interdisciplinary institute. The ICN is situated within Read more...

Experimental Psychology MPhil/PhD

We offer an outstanding research and teaching environment providing opportunities for graduate students to work with world-renowned Read more...

Course type:

• Full time PhD
• Part time PhD

Qualification:

Related subjects:.

Universities

University College London

PhD in Psychology and Human Development

University College London, London

Faculty of Education and Society

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About Course

Program Duration

Degree Type

PhD in Psychology and Human Development at the prestigious University College London is a prestigious degree that offers in-depth learning in Psychology. Being a renowned university, University College London receives enough funds to ensure the best education facilities for its students across all programs. This doctorate program offered full-time primarily focuses on the practical implementation of fresh ideas through rigorous study and research. The students are encouraged to add new aspects and findings to the existing area of knowledge. PhD in Psychology and Human Development at UCL is ranked globally by estimated organisations. Such recognition speaks volumes about the course’s importance and effectiveness in the present scenario. The top-notch faculty, modern facilities, and the aura of creativity and innovation in the UCL campus is a life-changing experience for the students looking forward to kickstarting or upgrading their careers. Overall, a PhD in Psychology and Human Development at University College London is an excellent opportunity to grow into a learned professional and bring new developments in the world.

Official fee page

£24,100 / year

£72,300 / 36 months

5000+ Students

Availed education loan

Loan amount sanctioned

Assistance for loan process

Minimum english score required

• Online Application
• Official Transcripts
• Research Proposal
• Two Reference
• Copy of Passport
• English Language Proficiency

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