/ Postgraduate Taught /

Psychology of Forensic and Criminal Behaviour

MSc

Start date:

September 2024

Duration:

1 year (full-time)
2 years (part-time)

Number of credits: 

180

On this exciting programme you will be introduced to forensic psychology and criminal behaviour, and gain a detailed understanding of the application of clinical skills, such as forensic psychological assessment, consultancy provision, practical interventions and evaluation in forensic settings.

Did you know?

You'll gain an in-depth understanding of psychological research and theory and their practical application in various settings within the legal and criminal justice system. 

Modules

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Skills

Scrutinise theoretical models of criminal behaviour on our MSc Psychology of Forensic and Criminal Behaviour.

You will: 

  • develop an understanding of why people offend
  • study the onset, development and maintenance of offending behaviours
  • consider the links between theoretical approaches and practical applications to forensic work.

You'll also learn about a range of therapeutic interventions while acknowledging the challenges that are inherent to working with a forensic population. 

At Roehampton you will:

  • learn about a range of therapeutic interventions while acknowledging the challenges that are inherent to working with a forensic population
  • explore the complex relationship between mental disorders and criminal behaviour
  • gain an understanding of the criminal justice system in England and Wales and its various agencies, including law enforcement, the courts, the penal system and crime prevention agencies.
  • discuss the role of psychology within the criminal justice system
  • be introduced to different aspects of investigative psychology, such as interviewing, eyewitness memory, jury decision-making and offender profiling.

Learning

Learn from the experts.

You’ll examine the latest research, study real-life case studies, learn to carry out assessment interviews and evaluate available evidence.

You’ll also develop transferrable professional skills including specialist report writing and communicating your findings and expertise to a wider audience. To further your professional development, you’ll learn about ethical considerations in research projects, data collection and data analysis.

Taught by leading experts in the field, you’ll be encouraged to critically evaluate research and apply your theoretical understandings to practical workshops, developing your assessment and consultancy skills.

You will also complete your own masters research project, using the knowledge and skills you’ve learned on the programme in your own small-scale research project.

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Career

On completion of the MSc Psychology of Forensic and Criminal Behaviour, graduates will be able to offer a broad range of knowledge and skills, which will support them to work across a number of sectors, including:    

  • Prison service 
  • Charities 
  • Psychological assessment developers 
  • Youth offending services and institutions 
  • Recruitment 
  • Ministry of Justice 
  • Home Office 
  • Police service 
  • Border Agency 
  • Security services/agencies 
  • Data collection and analysis in the Government or police research sector 
  • NHS 
  • Academia 
  • The Probation Service 
  • Rehabilitation units 
  • Secure Hospitals 
  • Victim Support 

Open days

Get a real taste of our campus, community and what it’s like to study at Roehampton

UK postgraduate students apply through our direct application system.

Course subject to curriculum review and validation.

Specific entry requirements

  • Applicants are required to hold a second class honours degree (or recognised equivalent qualification).
  • Applicants should have a degree in psychology, criminology or from a similar subject area.

September 2024 entry tuition fees

We offer a wide range of scholarships and bursaries. See our 2024 financial support pages for UK students.

We also provide other ways to support the cost of living, including free buses and on-campus car parking, hardship support and some of the most affordable student accommodation and catering in London. Find out more about how we can support you.

International postgraduate students apply through our direct application system.

Course subject to curriculum review and validation.

Specific entry requirements

  • Applicants are required to hold a second class honours degree (or recognised equivalent qualification).
  • Applicants should have a degree in psychology, criminology or from a similar subject area.

September 2024 entry tuition fees

We offer a wide range of scholarships and bursaries. See our 2024 financial support pages for international students.

We also provide other ways to support the cost of living, including free buses and on-campus car parking, hardship support and some of the most affordable student accommodation and catering in London. Find out more about how we can support you.

Need help or advice before applying?

Psychology

We advance knowledge in mental health and wellbeing and broaden our students’ opportunities towards successful careers, within an inclusive community that supports equity and fairness for all.

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