Forensic Psychology MSc

On this course you will:

Gain knowledge and understanding of key areas of forensic psychology (for example aetiology of offending behaviour, judicial decision making, offender treatment programmes, victimisation and investigative psychology)
Develop understanding of forensic psychological practice and the work of other criminal justice professionals through visits and workshops

Develop core professional, ethical and research skills in line with the BPS and Division of Forensic Psychology (DFP) National Occupational Standards
Gain knowledge and critical understanding of a variety of research techniques and statistical methods appropriate to postgraduate training in psychology
Gain experience developing research, analytical and reporting skills, working as a team and individually. Make an appropriate contribution to research in forensic psychology

Study preparation, independent study and contact/supervisory time. Expected timetable for full time students: 40 hours per week; timetabled sessions Tuesdays and Thursdays all day (9.30 to 6.00). Expected timetable for part time students: 20 hours per week; timetabled sessions Tuesdays in year one and Thursdays in year two

Modules

PSY4011 Advanced Research Methods in Psychology

This module conforms with the statistics and methodology requirements of the British Psychological Society Divisions of Forensic and Health Psychology, and National Occupational Standards for Applied Psychologists Key roles 2 and 3. Successful completion of this module provides partial fulfilment of the requirements for Stage 1 exemption for practitioner psychologists Health/Forensic. The module extends psychology students' undergraduate knowledge of research methods, design and statistics with particular reference to advanced forensic and health psychology. It prepares them for conducting their independent research project, forthcoming supervised practice and enables them to choose appropriate methodologies and analyses for research.

PSY4030 Victims, Offenders and Communities

This module aims to introduce students to the core theoretical understandings and debates in forensic psychology that relate to victims, offenders and communities. It encourages students to think of how crime affects all these groups, rather than considering them as isolated entities. It also provides the foundations for students' evidence based practice throughout the programme and beyond.

PSY4031 Psychology of Investigation and Criminal Justice

This module aims to develop students' knowledge of investigative and legal psychology, and how theory and research can be applied to improve practice throughout the criminal justice system. It also aims to enhance students' understanding of the contexts in which forensic psychologists work, and the requirements of professional practice.

PSY4032 Assessment, Intervention and Professional Practice

The aim of the module is to introduce students to the key practice and treatment concerns for forensic psychologists, such as risk assessment, working with clients and evaluation. It also aims to give students the opportunity to learn about, and try out, some therapeutic approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.

PSY4035 Research: Practice and Reporting

In this module, you will undertake an independent research project, supported by a supervisor from within the Department of Psychology. It provides students with an opportunity to carry out an in depth advanced study in an area of forensic psychology. Students apply appropriate principles of empirical research, and present their study in the form of a written journal article.