Developmental Psychology and Psychopathology

The master’s degree in Developmental Psychology and Psychopathology provides solid, evidence-based knowledge for understanding and critically reflecting on adaptive and maladaptive developmental trajectories. By considering the relationship between patterns of psychological functioning at each stage of development, neuropsychological foundations, and relational aspects, this knowledge underpins practices of assessment, prevention, and intervention in both normative and at-risk developmental contexts.

The teaching methodologies combine theoretical training with case studies and supervised practice, including observation activities and a curricular placement in a real-world setting. The master’s degree also aims to promote research skills in Developmental Psychology and Psychopathology through the development and implementation of an original dissertation project.

The study plan has a duration of 2 academic years (4 semesters), totalling 120 ECTS credits.

• To train Psychologists specialised in Developmental Psychology and Psychopathology, with solid knowledge of theoretical models and relevant empirical data to support practices of assessment, prevention, and intervention across different developmental contexts;
• To deepen knowledge of the main models for understanding typical and atypical developmental processes;
• To promote competences that enable the critical understanding and analysis of research data framed by theoretical models;
• To foster the ability to apply scientific knowledge and analytical competences to practice, both in prevention and intervention actions;
• To develop competences that enable the design, conduct and evaluation of applied and fundamental scientific research, as well as the development of prevention and intervention projects in different development contexts.

Intervening to promote psychological well-being, prevent the occurrence of mental health problems, and/or (re)direct children and adolescents in situations of risk towards more adaptive developmental trajectories, in contexts such as:

• Hospitals (public or private), health centres, maternity wards
• Child and Youth Protection Commissions (CPCJ)
• Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)
• Private Social Solidarity Institutions (IPSS)
• Private practice
• Research

Graduates in Psychological Sciences or Psychology* and related areas

* Completion of this master’s degree grants access to registration with the Portuguese Psychologists’ Association exclusively for holders of a bachelor’s degree in psychology or Psychological Sciences (in accordance with the Association’s registration regulations)

** Admission of candidates from related areas is subject to a curricular review (validated by the Scientific Council) demonstrating solid academic, scientific, or professional preparation attesting to the candidate’s ability to successfully complete this study cycle.

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Fees and tuition
Charges and documents
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Ispa has placement agreements with hundreds of relevant public and private institutions, providing opportunities for its students to undertake curricular placements.

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Ispa rewards students who demonstrate outstanding academic merit by awarding scholarships, granted on the basis of admission grades or performance within their programme of study.

In addition to recognising merit, Ispa is also committed to promoting fairness and social responsibility. For this reason, students facing economic hardship may apply for a variety of scholarships that serve as a financial and social support.

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International cooperation has always been a defining feature of Ispa, which for over 30 years has offered its students the opportunity to gain experience abroad. Whether through the Erasmus+ programme (within Europe) or through non-EU agreements (such as with Brazil), students may choose from more than 40 partner universities.

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• Registration as a Junior Psychologist with the Portuguese Psychologists’ Association (OPP), as a step towards obtaining the professional title of Psychologist.
• The practice of Clinical Psychology in public or private settings after obtaining the professional title of Psychologist, awarded by the OPP.
• Access to 3rd cycle graduate training (Doctoral Degree / PhD).

Please refer to the academic calendar