Prepare for your career in Forensic Psychology and learn the theory and critical skills needed to investigate the causes and the consequences of crime. This is an exciting opportunity to study forensic psychology within a School with an established expertise in therapeutic skills and therapies.

Duration
1 year (full-time)
2 years (part-time)
Number of Credits
180 credits
Start date
September 2024
Degree Type
MSc
Modules
Why this course
This programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society.
Prepare for your career in Forensic Psychology and benefit from our network of connections with a variety of organisations within the forensic psychology field.
Delivered by Chartered Psychologists and Health Care and Professions Council (HCPC) registered Forensic Psychologists who are experienced practitioners and experts in the field.
Gain an in-depth understanding of risk, psychological theory and practical issues to investigate the causes and the consequences of crime.
Your curriculum

Our MSc Forensic Psychology degree will introduce you to the key theoretical concepts and practical approaches relevant to the legal and criminal justice system. The core philosophy of the course is to promote an understanding of the role of forensic psychologists in various forensic settings, whilst preparing you for a rewarding career or doctoral study in the field of forensic psychology.
An advanced understanding of Forensic Psychology
During this one year course, you will:
- Gain a strong foundation in understanding the field of forensic psychology.
- Study real-life case studies and apply theory to practical work with an emphasis on career preparation
- Develop the necessary clinical and practical skills to carry out assessments for treatment of criminal behaviour.
- Be introduced to the ethical principles and the codes of conduct in forensic psychology and the concept of evidence-based practice.
How you'll learn
You will be taught by leading experts in the field who are chartered psychologists and HCPC registered Forensic Psychologists to learn about the latest developments in the field of Forensic Psychology. You will develop knowledge of contemporary psychological theories of understanding crime. You will be encouraged to develop the ability to critically evaluate research, start thinking reflectively and communicate the knowledge you acquired to a wider, multidisciplinary, audience.
From an investigative standpoint, you will develop a strong scientific understanding of the current theories of aetiology of criminal behaviour and the assessment of risk. You will gain an understanding of evidence for legal aspects in consideration for court cases, and sentencing and parole boards. You will be encouraged to think critically about methodological challenges and limitations arising from these topics. You will also learn how to appropriately conduct and disseminate your own research in preparation for the doctoral level, if you decide to pursue your studies further.

Upcoming Events:
Career options
Once you’ve successfully graduated from the programme, you can continue your training to becoming a Chartered Forensic Psychologist. You could then go onto work in prison and probation services, rehabilitation units, secure hospitals, and social services.
The skills and knowledge you develop can also lead you to a successful career in:
- The NHS or private sector healthcare
- Civil Service, including the Home Office, Ministry of Justice, the police or the courts and justice system
- Education and research within universities.

How our careers service supports you
Our careers team is available to support you from the start of your studies until after you graduate. We will help you build your CV, prepare for interviews, and meet and learn from successful graduates working at the top of their careers.
Application Info
How to apply
Postgraduate programmes
- September 2024 entry: apply using our direct application form.
- Check our application deadlines
- View our entry requirements for postgraduate programmes
- View our general entry criteria and application FAQs below
If you need any help or advice with your application, or just want to ask us a question before you apply, please do not hesitate to contact us.
International students
Please note that most international applicants have to pay a deposit before securing their place.
- See our Finance pages for more details
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.
Specific Entry Requirements
- Applicants are required to hold a second class honours degree (or recognised equivalent qualification).
- Applicants should have a degree in psychology or from a similar subject area (e.g. Criminology).
- Applicants need to hold Graduate Basis for Chartership by the BPS
- Applicants whose degree is not accredited by the British Psychological Society (some psychology degrees and degrees from other disciplines) will be required to complete an MSc Psychology (Conversion) programme first, before applying for this programme. If you do not hold Graduate Basis for Chartership by the BPS, you are welcome to apply to the MSc Psychology of Forensic & Criminal Behaviour
Course Facilities
Our Research
For an overview of the research carried out by psychology academics within the School of Psychology, please visit the departmental research pages.
