Program Presentation
The Master's Degree in Neuroeducation and Early Childhood Care is a multidisciplinary program with a professionalizing approach which main objective is providing students with a deep and applied understanding of the neurocognitive processes underlying children's learning and development.
This program provides the necessary tools to design and implement educational and early intervention strategies based on scientific evidence, with the objective of optimizing the integral development of children.
Through a critical and reflective approach, our program has the following purposes to prepare students to:
- Integrate up-to-date knowledge: To provide solid training in contemporary theories and innovative practices in neuroeducation and early care, facilitating a deep understanding of human development and its educational implications.
- Apply psychoeducational actions: To provide skills to identify and respond effectively to diverse educational needs, through evidence-based interventions adapted to specific contexts.
- Develop critical thinking and transfer skills: To foster the critical ability to evaluate educational contexts and situations, and to transfer academic knowledge to professional practice in an ethical and effective manner.
- Design educational materials and programs: To train students in the design and development of educational materials and intervention programs, in accordance with the accurate assessment of educational needs and objectives.
- Select appropriate intervention techniques: To train students in the selection and application of appropriate psychoeducational intervention techniques to achieve educational and personal development objectives.
- Promote prevention and intervention strategies: To organize preventive and intervention strategies that foster the integral development and optimal learning of all individuals in diverse educational environments.
- Intervene in an ethical and reflective manner: To train students to intervene effectively with diverse agents and in different educational contexts, while maintaining an ethical commitment and ongoing critical reflection, in accordance with current professional and regulatory standards.
Who is the programme for?
The Master's Degree in Neuroeducation and Early Childhood Care is aimed at professionals and graduates interested in understanding the neurocognitive processes that underpin child learning and development, and in applying this knowledge to educational practice and early intervention. Its multidisciplinary and evidence-based approach makes it a key program for those seeking to promote a more effective, inclusive form of education centered on human development.
- Professionals in the educational field
The program is ideal for early childhood and elementary school teachers, special education specialists, guidance counselors, and pedagogical technicians who wish to design educational strategies aligned with children's neurocognitive development, promoting meaningful learning and inclusive environments.
- Psychologists and psychopedagogues
It is aimed at professionals who work in assessment, intervention and support of child development, providing them with tools to identify educational needs, design evidence-based interventions, and collaborate effectively with families and schools.
- Child health professionals
The Master's Degree provides an interdisciplinary perspective for speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, pediatric physical therapists, speech therapists, and pediatric physicians, allowing them to integrate knowledge of neurodevelopment and educational strategies into their clinical and preventive work.
- Specialists in social and community intervention
It is also designed for social workers, social educators, and professionals involved in family support or child care programs who seek to strengthen their capacity for early detection, prevention, and intervention in vulnerable contexts
- Educational managers and program designers
The skills acquired are especially valuable for those who lead educational projects, coordinate teams, or participate in pedagogical innovation, curriculum design, and the development of educational materials aimed at integral development.
- Recent graduates in related fields
The program is an opportunity for graduates in education, psychology, pedagogy, health sciences, or social sciences who wish to specialize in a growing field with high professional demand.
Diploma
Successful completion of the Program will lead to the award of the degree of MASTER’S DEGREE IN NEUROEDUCATION AND EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE, issued by the University in which the student is enrolled.
Program Structure
The Master's Degree in Neuroeducation and Early Childhood Care consists of 90 credits distributed into six modules. The distribution of the modules is described in the following table:
| MODULE | CREDITS |
|---|---|
| 1st: Neuroscientific Fundamentals | 18 |
| 2nd: Neuroscience and Neurodidactics Applied to Education | 12 |
| 3rd: Neurodevelopmental Disorders | 30 |
| 4th: Therapeutic and Educational Interventions | 12 |
| 5th: Practicum | 8 |
| 6th: Final Project | 10 |
| TOTAL | 90 |
a. The equivalence in credits may vary according to the university that issues the degree. One (1) ECTS (European Credit Transfer System) credit is equivalent to 25 hours. If the student is enrolled in a university that does not belong to the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), the relation between credits - hours may vary.
Duration
The duration of the program varies between 12 and 24 months, depending on the student's dedication. During this period, the student must have successfully passed all the corresponding evaluations as well as the Final Project.
Objectives
Learning Objectives
- Train professionals to acquire a deep and applied understanding of the neurocognitive processes involved in children's learning and development, and to develop the necessary skills to assess, design, and implement, through an interdisciplinary approach, educational strategies and early interventions grounded on scientific evidence that support the cognitive, emotional and social development of children in inclusive educational and therapeutic settings.
Learning Outcomes
- Integrate updated knowledge: Provide solid training in contemporary theories and innovative practices in neuroeducation and early care, facilitating a deep understanding of human development and its educational implications
- Apply psychoeducational actions: Provide skills to identify and respond effectively to diverse educational needs, through evidence-based interventions adapted to specific contexts
- Develop critical and transfer capacity: Foster the critical ability to evaluate educational contexts and situations, and to transfer academic knowledge to professional practice in an ethical and effective manner.
- Design educational materials and programs: Train students in the design and development of educational materials and intervention programs, in accordance with the accurate assessment of educational needs and objectives.
- Select appropriate intervention techniques: Train students in the selection and application of appropriate psychoeducational intervention techniques to achieve educational and personal development objectives.
- Promote prevention and intervention strategies: Organize preventive and intervention strategies that foster holistic development and optimal learning for all individuals in diverse educational settings.
- To intervene in an ethical and reflective manner: Prepare students to intervene effectively with diverse agents and in different educational contexts, while maintaining an ethical commitment and constant critical reflection, in accordance with current professional and regulatory standards.
Career Opportunities
Professionals who successfully complete the program will be able to exericse their profession as:
- Neuroeducators/a
- Orientador/a o asesor/a psicopedagógico/a
- Specialists in child neuropsychological assessment and intervention
- TND Intervention Designers
- Specialists in educational innovation
- Teacher trainer in neuroscience and education
- Researchers in neuroscience, education or child development
- Consultants for international organizations
Study Plan
The curriculum of the Master's program in Neuroeducation and Early Childhood Care is structured into six blocks or modules comprising 14 subjects:
- MODULE 1: NEUROSCIENTIFIC FUNDAMENTALS
The Neuroscientific Fundamentals module provides a comprehensive overview of the anatomical and functional organization of the brain. It delves into brain plasticity and the interaction between genetics, epigenetics, and environment as the foundations of human development. The module addresses the principles of neural communication and the processes that regulate emotional responses and maturation. It also introduces the neurobiological foundations of behavior and its relation to learning and skill acquisition.
| MODULE 1: NEUROSCIENTIFIC FUNDAMENTALS | ||
|---|---|---|
| # | SUBJECTS | |
| 1 | Biological and Functional Foundations of the Brain (CNS) | |
| 2 | Basic Neuropsychology | |
- MODULE 2: NEUROSCIENCE AND NEURODIDACTICS APPLIED TO EDUCATION
The Neuroscience and Neurodidactics Applied to Education module integrates an evidence-based approach to understanding how the brain learns in the classroom, connecting memory, attention, emotion, and motivation to student performance and engagement. It incorporates variables such as stress, sleep, nutrition, and environment as guides in the creation of healthier and more effective learning environments, and draws on principles such as neuroplasticity and multisensory learning to design inclusive and meaningful experiences. Furthermore, it articulates these fundamentals with active methodologies and with formative assessment, self-assessment and feedback, promoting an ethical and inclusive educational practice.
| MODULE 2: NEUROSCIENCE AND NEURODIDACTICS APPLIED TO EDUCATION | ||
|---|---|---|
| # | SUBJECTS | |
| 1 | Neuroscience in the Educational Context | |
| 2 | Active Methodologies and Neuroeducation | |
- MODULE 3: NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS
The Neurodevelopmental Disorders module synthesizes the main conditions that impact learning and school adjustment, connecting their neurobiological foundations with specific educational needs. The module integrates the approach to ASD, ADHD, intellectual disability and communication disorders, emphasizing the detection of signs, the understanding of profiles and the design of inclusive supports and interventions. In addition, it incorporates the use of neuropsychological assessment tools to guide educational decision-making, prepare reports, and propose appropriate recommendations, from an ethical and person-centered approach.
| MODULE 3: NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS/th> | ||
|---|---|---|
| # | SUBJECTS | |
| 1 | Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) | |
| 2 | Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD) | |
| 3 | Intellectual Disability | |
| 4 | Communication Disorders | |
| 5 | Neuropsychological Assessment Instruments in Neurodevelopmental Disorders | |
- MODULE 4: INTERVENTIONS IN THERAPEUTIC AND EDUCATIONAL SETTINGS
The module Interventions in Therapeutic and Educational Settings focuses on transferring assessment into the design of intervention plans tailored to child and adolescent development, integrating neuropsychological assessment and rehabilitation as a foundation for identifying needs, guiding objectives, and monitoring progress. It also incorporates psychomotor skills as a key component to understand how motor development impacts attention, learning, and emotional regulation, and to plan programs that use movement, play, and sensory stimulation as educational support tools. Taken together, the module integrates assessment procedures and intervention proposals applicable to both the classroom and therapeutic setting, with a practical, individualized approach focused on student well-being and participation.
| MODULE 4: INTERVENTIONS IN THERAPEUTIC AND EDUCATIONAL SETTINGS | ||
|---|---|---|
| # | SUBJECTS | |
| 1 | Neuropsychological Evaluation and Rehabilitation of Child and Adolescent Development | |
| 2 | Psychomotor Skills and Learning: Assessment and Intervention | |
- MODULE 5: PRACTICUM
The Practicum module integrates the learning acquired throughout the program and applies it to solve professional problems in a simulated work environment, transferring neuroeducational principles to educational or therapeutic settings, and designing personalized interventions with an inclusive approach and ethical commitment. In addition, it organizes the work in deliverables that demonstrate professional competence: solution to a critical situation (E1), case study (E2), information resource with applied questions (E3) and reflective report (E4), strengthening resource search skills, decision-making and reflection on practice.
| MODULE 5: PRACTICUM | ||
|---|---|---|
| # | SUBJECTS | |
| 1 | Extracurricular Work Placement | |
- MODULE 6: MASTER'S FINAL PROJECT
The Master's Final Project module culminates the program through the independent completion of a project that integrates the knowledge and skills acquired in the master's degree and applies them to a relevant topic in the field, with clear objectives and an appropriate research methodology in neuroeducation. The project is presented in a written report of primarily applied and practical orientation, also incorporating a review of the state of the field and theoretical foundations, and it is developed under the guidance of a director, with tutorials supported by virtual campus resources. The assessment is composed of the MFP Report (80%) and Oral Defense (20%), reinforcing the ability to argue and defend the work completed.
| MODULE 6: MASTER’S FINAL PROJECT | ||
|---|---|---|
| # | SUBJECTS | |
| 1 | Master’s Final Project | |
Description of the Subjects
BIOLOGICAL AND FUNCTIONAL FOUNDATIONS OF THE BRAIN (SNC)
The Evolutionary Origin of the Brain. The Brain as Part of the Nervous System. Neurons, Neurotransmitters, and Neural Networks. Genes and Learning. Plasticity and Epigenetics. Anatomy and Functional Morphology of the Brain. The Formation of the Brain: from Conception to Adulthood.
BASIC NEUROPSYCHOLOGY
Historical Approach to Current Neuropsychology. Neuropsychology of Attention. Neuropsychology of Memory. Neuropsychology of Language. Executive Functions. Apraxias. Agnosias.
EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT: FROM 0 TO 6 YEARS OLD
Neuropsychological Foundations of Child Development. Basic Theoretical Models of Developmental Psychology. Sensory and Motorskill Development in Early Childhood. Cognitive and Language Development. Socioemotional Development and Affective Regulation. Risk Factors and Warning Signs in Child Development. Evaluation of Child Development. Neuroeducational Interventions and Strategies in Early Childhood. Role of the Family and the Environment in Child Development.
NEUROSCIENCE IN THE EDUCATIONAL CONTEXT
Fundamentals of Neuroscience Applied to Education. Key Cognitive Processes in Learning. Brain Development and its Educational Implications. External Factors Affecting Learning. Application of Neuroscience-Based Strategies in the Classroom. Assessment of Learning from a Neuroscientific Perspective. Socioemotional Skills and the Brain. Neuroeducation and Diversity in the Classroom. Integration of Neuroscience in Active Methodologies. Ethics and Neuroscience in Education.
ACTIVE METHODOLOGIES AND NEUROEDUCATION
Introduction to Active Methodologies in Education. Neuroscientific Foundations of Learning and Neuroeducation. Design and Implementation of Neuroeducational Strategies in Active Methodologies. Adaptation of Active Methodologies for Inclusion and Diversity. Evaluation in Active Methodologies. Integration of Socioemotional Learning in Active Methodologies. Use of Technologies in the Framework of Active Methodologies.
AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER (ASD)
Neurobiological and Etiological Foundations of ASD. Cognitive and Behavioral Characteristics in ASD. Neuropsychological Assessment in ASD for the Educational Setting. Current Conceptualization of Autism Spectrum Disorders. From DSM-IV-TR to DSM 5 and ICD-11. Theoretical Explanatory Models of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Diagnosis and Assessment of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Evidence-Based Educational Interventions for Students with ASD. Development and Evaluation and Monitoring of Interventions for Students with ASD. Scientific Advances and New Perspectives in the Study of ASD.
ATTENTION DEFICIT AND HYPERACTIVITY DISORDERS (ADHD)
Introduction to ADHD and Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Neurobiological Basis and Etiology of ADHD. Symptomatology and Diagnosis of ADHD. Cognitive and Behavioral Characteristics in ADHD. Neuropsychological and Educational Evaluation of ADHD. Neuroeducational Strategies for ADHD Care in the Classroom. Behavior Modification Techniques and Socioemotional Skills Development. Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Counseling for Families and Teachers. Case Studies and Best Practices in ADHD Intervention.
INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY
Introduction to Intellectual Disability. Neurobiological Foundations and Etiological Factors. Cognitive and Emotional Development in Persons with Intellectual Disabilities. Neuropsychological and Educational Evaluation. Neuroeducational Interventions in Intellectual Disability. Assistive Technology and Adaptive Resources. Ethical and Inclusive Perspective on Intellectual Disability. Current Models and Good Practices in Inclusive Education.
COMMUNICATION DISORDERS
Neurobiological and Cognitive Foundations of Communication. Introduction to the Neuropsychology of Language. Language Development and Acquisition. Classification and Typology of Language Disorders. Etiology and Risk Factors of Language Disorders. Neuropsychological Evaluation of Language Disorders. Evidence-Based Interventions in Language Disorders. Ethical and Inclusionary Aspects of Language Impairment Care.
NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT INSTRUMENTS IN NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS
Introduction to Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Diagnosis of Neurodevelopmental Disorders According to DSM-5 and ICD-11. Fundamentals of Neuropsychological Assessment in Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Neuropsychological Evaluation Instruments. Evaluation Protocols and Application of Instruments. Interpretation of Neuropsychological Results. Neuropsychological Report Writing. Intervention Planning Based on Neuropsychological Assessment.
NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT AND REHABILITATION OF CHILD AND ADOLESCENT DEVELOPMENT
Introduction to Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Diagnosis of Neurodevelopmental Disorders according to DSM-5 and ICD-11. Fundamentals of Neuropsychological Assessment in Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Neuropsychological Evaluation Instruments. Evaluation Protocols and Application of Instruments. Interpretation of Neuropsychological Results. Neuropsychological Report Writing. Intervention Planning Based on Neuropsychological Assessment.
PSYCHOMOTOR SKILLS AND LEARNING: ASSESSMENT AND INTERVENTION
Introduction to Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Diagnosis of Neurodevelopmental Disorders according to DSM-5 and ICD-11. Fundamentals of Neuropsychological Assessment in Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Neuropsychological Evaluation Instruments. Evaluation Protocols and Application of Instruments. Interpretation of Neuropsychological Results. Neuropsychological Report Writing. Intervention Planning Based on Neuropsychological Assessment.
Management
Faculty Leadership
- Dr. Ángel Olider Rojas Vistorte. Clinical psychologist and university professor with a solid background in teaching, research, and academic coordination. Doctor in Psychiatry and Medical Psychology from the Universidad Federal de São Paulo. Has worked in Cuba, Brazil, and Spain in undergraduate, masters, and doctoral programs in clinical psychology, neuropsychology, and health psychology. Coordinates the Master's Degree in Neuropsychology and leads research projects on mental health stigma, predictors of psychotic disorders, and validation of psychometric scales. Has been a researcher at the Brazilian Institute of Pharmacological Practice (BIPP) and a collaborator at the WHO for the development of the ICD-11 in mental health. Lines of work include neuroscience, psychopharmacology, social and legal psychology, history of psychology, and basic processes. Has numerous publications in indexed journals, book chapters, and international papers.
FUNIBER Training Scholarships
The Iberoamerican University Foundation (FUNIBER) allocates periodically an extraordinary economic item for FUNIBER Training Scholarships.
To apply, please fill out the information request form that appears in the web of FUNIBER or contact directly the Foundation’s headquarters in your country that will inform you if you need to provide some additional information.
Once the documentation is received, the Evaluation Committee will determine your application's eligibility for the FUNIBER Training Scholarship.