MSc Forensic Psychology

This MSc focuses on case formulation and the applied aspects of forensic psychology. There is an emphasis on working with different groups, including childrenadolescents, violent or sexual offenders, and those with forensic mental health concerns. The programme has a clear focus on practice-based topics in forensic psychology. Students are able to conduct a research project alongside academics who are active researchers in their fields. Areas of expertise amongst staff include understanding deception and interviewing skills; investigative and courtroom processes; sexual fantasy and sexual offending; and online sexual exploitation material. The School’s forensic psychology team draws on the expertise of a range of practitioners working in applied forensic psychology settings to provide specialist input into the programme.

First or upper second class honours degree in psychology. All offers made to those still completing their BSc are contingent upon the applicant meeting these requirements.To use the MSc in Forensic Psychology as Stage 1 in the route towards becoming a Chartered Forensic Psychologist, an essential pre-requisite is that you must be eligible for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the British Psychological Society.This means that you will have undertaken an undergraduate degree in psychology approved by the British Psychological Society. Those without an approved psychology degree must undertake a BPS accredited conversion course, before stage two training can begin.Whilst the conversion course can be undertaken after the MSc, completion of the MSc assumes a base level knowledge of psychological theory. Therefore, applications without a BPS accredited psychology degree should consider undertaking the conversion prior to the completion of the MSc. However, some individuals without GBC may choose to take the MSc to further their understanding of Forensic Psychology but should be aware that the course could not then be used to work towards Chartership as a Forensic Psychologist.You should normally have at least an upper second class degree in psychology. It is helpful if you have experience (voluntary or paid) working in a forensically relevant area or have undertaken a research project relevant to the forensic psychology field.