McMaster University - Faculty of Health Sciences

Child Life and Pediatric Psychosocial Care - Advanced Skills in Pediatric Psychosocial Care

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Program Information

School:McMaster University - Faculty of Health Sciences
Faculty:Faculty of Health Sciences
Degree:Master
Field of Study:Clinical Child Psychology
Description:The Master of Science in Child Life and Pediatric Psychosocial Care is the first program of its kind in Canada. It is a professional and practice-focused graduate degree. Students will learn about pediatric psychosocial assessment and interventions, critically examine ethical issues, and apply theoretical knowledge and patient and family-centred care principles to diverse pediatric clinical settings. Students will also understand the foundations of clinical research, engage in critical reflection, and incorporate the appraisal of evidence to improve reasoning and clinical decision-making skills.



This stream provides child life specialists or practicing health professionals with advanced practice skills in pediatric psychosocial care. This stream is offered as a full or part-time course-based Master's degree (no internships required). Students will be provided with opportunities to learn about pediatric psychosocial assessment and interventions, critically examine ethical issues, and apply theoretical knowledge and patient and family-centered care principles to diverse pediatric clinical settings. Students will also understand the foundations of clinical research, engage in critical reflection, and incorporate the appraisal of evidence to improve reasoning and clinical decision-making skills, and explore methods of implementation into practice.

URL:Child Life and Pediatric Psychosocial Care - Advanced Skills in Pediatric Psychosocial Care at McMaster University - Faculty of Health Sciences
Course Based:Yes
Cost per year:*
International: $30,990

Admission Requirements

Grade for Entrance Previous Year (%)*77
Prerequisites:*These courses are intended as guidelines. Speak to your guidance counsellor to see what courses are offered at your school.
    Applicants are required to have an Honours bachelor's degree or the international equivalent from an accredited university, with a B+ average (77-79%, equivalent to a McMaster 8.5 grade point average) in the final year of undergraduate study. Applicants must also have qualifications as a child life specialist, or healthcare professional.
    Test Scores:
    • Test of English as a Foreign Language (Internet Based) [min. 92] or International English Language Testing System (academic or immigration) [min. 7.5]
    Application Notes : Applicants whose native language is not English will be required to submit an official copy of their TOEFL score, or other evidence of competency in English is required. A minimum TOEFL (iBT) score of 92 overall with a minimum score of 22 for reading 24 for speaking, 24 for listening and 22 for writing. Students taking the IELTS are required to achieve a minimum score of 7.5 overall. Equivalent scores on other recognized tests may also be considered. Each of these scores are only valid for 2 years. Students who have completed an Academic ESL program through Canadian academic institutions may petition to have this considered in lieu of TOEFL. Applicants may be exempted from this requirement if they have completed a university degree at which English is the language of instruction.
    Additional Admission Requirements:
    • Letter(s) of Reference
    • Resume/Curriculum Vitae
    • Statement of Research Interests
    Applicants are required to submit a current resume/cv, two confidential academic reference forms from an instructor most familiar with their academic work, and a Personal Statement. Please visit the website for complete details.

    * The entrance grade may change from year to year. Please contact the school for further information.

    * We make every attempt to provide accurate information on prerequisites, programs, and tuition. However, this information is subject to change without notice and we highly recommend that you contact the school to confirm important information before applying.

    Modified on September 08, 2022