Masters Degrees (Criminology And Psychology)

The MSc Criminology and Criminal Psychology programme provides students with the conceptual knowledge and skills to open up diverse career paths. Core courses will enable you to develop an understanding of the concepts, theories, methods and principles central to criminology and the skills to apply these in the forensic and legal area. Optional courses build on this core grounding and enable you to develop an empirical insight in an area of your choice, culminating in a research project.

This approach provides you with knowledge of the changing nature of psychology, law and criminology, and professional applications. It will also develop your ability to relate theory to practice in a way that provides more informed solutions to problems, and opportunities in the workplace. There is a valuable research grounding and a broad coverage of criminological, forensic and psychological approaches to crime and criminality.

Please note that this programme does not provide British Psychological Society accreditation or recognition. This is because the programme is a criminology programme with a strand of specialist criminal / investigative / forensic psychology and is not a postgraduate psychology degree programme. The MSc Criminology & Criminal Psychology programme meets the British Criminology Society benchmarks for postgraduate taught courses.

From time-to-time we update our programmes to reflect changes in knowledge and industry standards, so the programme structure, mode and the courses and course structure can be subject to change from what is listed below. The availability of option courses also varies from year-to-year according to student preference, staff availability and may, for some courses, also depend on a student's academic performance. Until the academic term immediately prior to the academic term in which an option is listed to run, we are not able to guarantee that an option listed will be available. In addition, please note that some courses may only be open to certain students and may also involve an application process which may include successfully passing a selection process to take the course. For these reasons, the structure (i.e. the mode(s), the courses and the course structure) of the programme shown in this information is shown for illustrative purposes only.

Visit the website http://www2.gre.ac.uk/study/courses/pg/crim/crimpsych

What you'll study

Full time
- Year 1:
Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

Criminal Investigative Psychology (15 credits)
Psychology, Development and Crime (15 credits)
Comparative Criminological Research (30 credits)
Crime Theory (30 credits)
Criminology Postgraduate Dissertation Project (60 credits)

Students are required to choose 30 credits from this list of options.

Child and Adolescent Psychology in Practice (30 credits)
Current issues in Child and Adolescent Psychology (30 credits)
Contemporary Issues in Criminology (30 credits)
Crime, Terrorism and the State (30 credits)

Part time
- Year 1:
Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

Psychology, Development and Crime (15 credits)
Crime Theory (30 credits)

- Year 2:
Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

Criminal Investigative Psychology (15 credits)
Comparative Criminological Research (30 credits)
Criminology Postgraduate Dissertation Project (60 credits)

Students are required to choose 30 credits from this list of options.

Child and Adolescent Psychology in Practice (30 credits)
Current issues in Child and Adolescent Psychology (30 credits)
Contemporary Issues in Criminology (30 credits)
Crime, Terrorism and the State (30 credits)

Fees and finance

Your time at university should be enjoyable and rewarding, and it is important that it is not spoilt by unnecessary financial worries. We recommend that you spend time planning your finances, both before coming to university and while you are here. We can offer advice on living costs and budgeting, as well as on awards, allowances and loans.

Career opportunities

This programme encompasses criminological, legal, forensic and psychological approaches. It will appeal to those with a broad interest in criminology and criminal psychological issues, including those whose future employment is likely to involve public, private and/ or non-governmental criminological or criminal justice work or applied criminal/legal/forensic psychological work in the UK or internationally. It is relevant to careers in local government, European and international institutions, and national and international nongovernmental organisations. It will also appeal to those wishing to prepare for a research degree in humanities and social sciences.

Teaching and assessment

The programme employs a range of innovative teaching and learning methods. Lectures and seminars are dynamic and interactive. Teaching and learning activities may include:

- Role play
- Real-world problem solving
- Speed debates
- Presentations
- Project supervision
- Work-based placements and tutorials.

Where possible and depending on the courses studied, one or more field trip (please note that any field trip will be a day-time trip only, not an overnight or multi-day trip).

Assessment of learning is usually based on a mixture of examination and coursework and can include presentations/group work, the submission of essays and the sitting of examinations.

Further information

If you would like more information on this programme, please contact us at [email protected].

Find out how to apply here - http://www2.gre.ac.uk/study/apply

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Develop a deep insight into crime and criminal behaviour by studying this uniquely practical and applied course in criminology and forensic psychology.

Studying applied criminology and forensic psychology at postgraduate level will allow you to develop a range of analytical and practical skills benefitting you as a practitioner or researcher.

You’ll have the opportunity of a work placement alongside specialised modules covering mediation, international criminology, assessment of offenders, child protection and advanced quantitative and qualitative research methods. These modules will give you a valuable set of skills for both employment and further research.

Your tutors will be research-active staff who are experts in their field. You’ll also benefit from external practitioners who bring their practical skills and experience to the course.

See the website http://www.napier.ac.uk/en/Courses/MSc-Applied-Criminology-and-Forensic-Psychology-Postgraduate-FullTime

What you'll learn

You’ll develop a critical awareness of topics at the forefront of criminology and forensic psychology, and the contexts and theories that influence practice in these areas.

The applied focus of this course provides an excellent foundation in risk assessment of offenders, methods of rehabilitation, use of forensic interviewing strategies, mediation skills and facial composite construction.

Alongside these skills you’ll also learn directly from leading experts about current research and debates in criminology and forensic psychology which directly affect people at all points in the legal system.

Additionally you'll acquire excellent transferable research skills in both quantitative and qualitative methods which will enable you to carry out high quality research in a variety of contexts and with ethical integrity.

This is a one year full-time course delivered over three trimesters. You’ll learn by a variety of teaching methods including lectures, tutorials, laboratory sessions and independent study.

Modules

• Practical Forensic Psychology (assessing offenders and working with witnesses)
• Advanced Forensic Psychology (therapeutic jurisprudence and neuroethics)
• Criminal Justice in Practice
• Current Topics in Crime
• Comparative and International Criminology
• Advanced Research Skills
• Community Safety and Mediation
• Investigative Journalism
• Work Placement
• Dissertation

Study modules mentioned above are indicative only. Some changes may occur between now and the time that you study.

Careers

With a mix of subject specific knowledge, practical skills and technical abilities graduates will have the opportunity to develop a career in a range of occupations including:

• HM Prisons and secure units
• Probation service
• Police services
• Social work
• Court services
• Legal services
• Voluntary sector
• Community development
• Adult guidance
• Local and central government
• Academia and research
• Health services
• Forensic services
• Private practice

How to apply

http://www.napier.ac.uk/study-with-us/postgraduate/how-to-apply

SAAS Funding

Nothing should get in the way of furthering your education. Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) awards funding for postgraduate courses, and could provide the help you need to continue your studies. Find out more: http://www.napier.ac.uk/study-with-us/postgraduate/fees-and-funding/saas-funded-courses

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Anyone interested in child development, or planning to work with children in the future, will be fascinated by this course. As well as core modules in Social, Developmental, Biological and Cognitive Psychology, Research Methods and Statistics that will give you a BPS-recognised Psychology degree, you will take a series of specialist Child Development modules in years one, two and three that will give you a chance to study children’s thoughts, emotions and behaviour in great detail. You will be able to do a work placement in a child-centred setting, and you will complete an original research study under the supervision of an active developmental researcher. If you want to see how children play or how they interact with their carers or peers, you will have access to our purpose-built Child Observation Suite. If you want to see what is happening inside their heads, we have a fantastic Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience lab with a wide range of imaging equipment designed for children of all ages. If you are interested in Educational Psychology, we have lots of links with local schools and other children’s services, providing opportunities to study language development, literacy, peer relations, online safeguarding, antisocial behaviour and bullying.

DBS CHECKS

This course will involve access to children and/or vulnerable adults. You will be required to obtain a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service clearance (formerly termed CRB) and we will guide you through this process.

INDUSTRY LINKS

We continuously engage with employers to make sure our curriculum delivers the skills and knowledge industry needs. These include a number of professionals from various sectors, including NHS Trusts, patient groups, medical practitioners, allied health professionals, the Prison Service, police forces, local education authorities, schools and professional sports organisations.

PROFESSIONAL ACCREDITATION

Accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) as conferring eligibility for Graduate Membership of the Society with the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership, provided a minimum standard of qualification of second class honours is achieved.

LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND ASSESSMENT

You’ll be taught by academics that produce first-class research, which has an impact not just in academia but in our working and everyday lives. Much of our psychological research was rated as ‘internationally excellent’ and ‘world-leading’ in the last research assessment exercise.

Year 1 is assessed by coursework and Multiple Choice Question exams; Year 2 through coursework, MCQ and essay exams; Year 3 through coursework or essay exams and the project. Percentage of coursework to exams is roughly 50/50.

OPPORTUNITIES

You can get involved in the research carried out by our staff, both as a participant and as a researcher, and not just through your classes and final year projects - there are paid research student internships and part-time research assistant positions available. You can also take part in conference talks, research publications and research grants - our current students regularly publish themselves, or become members of the editorial panel of ‘Diffusion’, UCLan’s own undergraduate research journal.

Some of our graduates pursue a career in psychology by undertaking postgraduate training to become professional psychologists, including our BPS-accredited Master’s programmes. However, UCLan graduates are valued more broadly, and others utilise the skills that our degree encourages to take graduate-level positions in a range of organisations, including the Police, Prison Service, NHS, social and community services, health authorities and in the pharmaceutical industry, and in education and training.

FURTHER INFORMATION

All our Psychology degrees share a common first year, with the opportunity to start specialising from Year 2. You can choose BSc routes in (i) Developmental Psychology, (ii) Forensic Psychology, (iii) Health Psychology, (iv) Neuropsychology, (v) Psychology with Psychotherapy and Counselling and (vi) Psychology and Criminology.

The Psychology syllabus is informed by the professional body, the British Psychological Society (BPS). All core modules are completed by Year 2, after which you can choose your specialism and, if you like, progress straight onto a Master's degree, which can provide stage 1 of your training towards becoming a professional psychologist.

In Year 1 you will attend lectures, seminars, workshops and labs. You will take part in Psychology practicals and develop your skills in statistical analysis and report-writing. Lectures are delivered to large groups, but other classes contain about thirty students. These small groups allow you to develop your understanding of psychology and to practise your communication skills. You should get to know your fellow group members, and learn to use your Academic Advisor as a source of academic advice.

In Year 2, you will study core areas of psychology in more depth, including Social and Developmental Psychology, Cognitive and Physiological Psychology, and Psychological Research Methods. You will continue to develop your skills in psychological research and report-writing but work in smaller groups, and take a role in designing your own studies.

In Year 3, you will complete a double module research project on a Developmental topic. This can be the most exciting part of your degree because it lets you investigate a subject in which you have a particular interest, supported by one-to-one discussions with your supervisor. The rest of Year 3 is made up of a mixture of specialist and general modules including two core Developmental Psychology and Educational Psychology modules.

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The MSc in Forensic Psychology at Kent is accredited by The British Psychological Society as providing the first (academic) year of professional training for those who wish to qualify as Chartered Forensic Psychologists.

The programme was introduced in October 1995, and the School of Psychology has a long tradition of research in the area of criminal justice and legal psychology. Currently, several members of the School are actively involved in research and consultancy, and several PhD students are currently conducting research under their supervision.

This MSc is the only programme that offers an entire module on offender cognition, which helps you to understand how offence-supportive thinking can increase the chances of sexual offenders, firesetters and other individuals committing offences. With the support of forensic psychology staff you will also gain real-world writing skills such as journal writing, risk assessment reports, court reports and government research reports.

We are particularly interested in receiving applications from suitably qualified graduates who have direct experience of the application of psychological principles in custodial or other forensic settings, although such experience is not essential. As a significant element of the programme involves training in advanced methodological and statistical techniques, we are unable to consider applications from candidates who do not qualify for the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the BPS - Graduate Membership of the BPS is insufficient.

Visit the website https://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/69/forensic-psychology

About the School of Psychology

As a student within the School of Psychology at Kent, you benefit from our supportive, dynamic and diverse environment for creative research and learning.

All of our taught Master’s (MSc) programmes have been recognised by the UK Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) as meeting the nationally recognised criteria for preparation training for PhD research.

Conducting both basic and applied research in several areas, Psychology at Kent is highly regarded as a leading European centre for postgraduate research. Our long-established international reputation in social psychology is complemented by our strengths in cognitive, developmental and forensic psychology. We attract excellent visiting scholars and postgraduate students from both within the UK and overseas.

Some of our PhD students are self-funded, and others are funded by grants or awards either from the School, UK or their countries of origin. Some are also paid to undertake part-time teaching within the School. We have a strong track record of attracting ESRC research studentship funding, which involves partnerships with external organisations such as Age UK and the Equality and Human Rights Commission and collaborative studentships with partners such as People United.

Modules

The modules below are indicative of those offered on this programme. This list is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation.

The MSc in Forensic Psychology is composed of the following six compulsory modules:

SP801 - Statistics and Methodology (40 credits)
SP809 - Research Project in Criminology,Legal or Forensic Psychology (60 credits)
SP805 - Psychology of Criminal Conduct (20 credits)
SP806 - Psychology of Law and Justice (20 credits)
SP825 - Assessment and Treatment of Offenders in Forensic Settings (20 credits)

Assessment

The MSc in Forensic Psychology aims to satisfy the academic component of professional training in forensic psychology (that is, to become a Chartered Forensic Psychologist). Throughout the programme, you attend non-assessed seminars and go on site visits.

The programme includes lecture, workshop and seminar-based teaching, as well as an individually supervised empirical research project.

Advanced Statistics and Methodology is assessed by examination. All other taught modules are assessed by written work and presentations. Research is assessed by two articles: one empirical paper and one review article on your chosen topic.

Programme aims

This programme aims to:

- foster your intellectual development by providing you with specialised knowledge of a range of theoretical approaches to forensic psychology and statistical and methodological expertise in order that you should be well equipped to make your own original contribution to psychological knowledge

- provide teaching that is informed by current research and scholarship and that requires you to engage with aspects of work at the frontiers of knowledge

- help you to develop research skills and transferable skills in preparation for entering academic or other careers as psychologists

- satisfy the academic requirements of the knowledge base specified by the British Psychological Society

- enable you to manage your own learning and to carry out independent research

- help you to develop general critical, analytic and problem-solving skills that can be applied in a wide range of settings.

Careers

Our postgraduate students commonly go into the fields of health, teaching or further education. For instance, many of our graduates take up roles as assistant psychologists in the NHS with a view to becoming a professional clinical or forensic psychologist. Upon completing our Master’s courses, graduates have also pursued doctoral study and academic careers at higher education institutions.

The programmes we offer help you to develop general critical, analytic and problem-solving skills that can be applied in a wide range of settings.

Professional recognition

All of our taught Master’s (MSc) programmes have been recognised by the UK Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) as meeting the nationally recognised criteria for preparation training for PhD research.

The MSc in Forensic Psychology at Kent is accredited by The British Psychological Society as providing the first (academic) year of professional training for those who wish to qualify as Chartered Forensic Psychologists. Graduates from the programme are then required to gain the equivalent of a further two years' relevant experience under the supervision of a Chartered Forensic Psychologist before qualifying for Chartered status themselves. You should contact the BPS directly if you have enquiries about the nature of the supervised practice element of qualification.

Please note that only students who gain a mark of 40% or above in every module, with an overall mark of at least 50%, are eligible for accreditation by the British Psychological Society.

Find out how to apply here - https://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/how-to-apply/

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The programme is jointly delivered by the School of Law and the Department of Psychology and is designed for full and part-time study.

The contributions to the programme from academics in Psychology, Criminology and Law reflect the multidisciplinary context of applied forensic psychology and will develop your skills in integrating multidisciplinary concepts and communicating to multidisciplinary colleagues. The strong links with external practitioners in the field of forensic psychology give the programme a distinctive emphasis on detention and prisons, the assessment and treatment of the mentally disordered offender and young people in the Criminal Justice System.

The programme is accreditated by The British Psychological Society, so accounts for Stage 1 of the Qualification in Forensic Psychology

Embedded within the programme are a series of optional work experience opportunities that staff members promote among the cohort. Although these opportunities will not attract course credits or extend the period of student registration, staff endeavour to generate a range of relevant opportunities and work with colleagues in the careers service to ensure that necessary paperwork and insurance are in place.

See the website https://www.royalholloway.ac.uk/criminologyandsociology/coursefinder/mscforensicpsychology.aspx

Why choose this course?

- The contributions to the programme from academics in Psychology, Criminology and Law reflect the multidisciplinary context of applied forensic psychology and will develop your skills in integrating multidisciplinary concepts and communicating to multidisciplinary colleagues.

- The strong links with external practitioners in the field of forensic psychology give the programme a distinctive emphasis on detention and prisons, the assessment and treatment of mentally disordered offenders and young people in the Criminal Justice System.

- The assignments that we use are not only exams and traditional academic essays but also include professional reports, oral presentations and written reflections which enable you to build important skills that are critical for your future career as a forensic psychologist.

- The programme is accredited by the MSc British Psychological Society, so accounts for Stage 1 of the Qualification in Forensic Psychology.

- We deliberately limit student numbers to ensure high standards and to enable us to develop a good relationship with each of our students.

Department research and industry highlights

The programme is delivered by a team of leading academics with expertise in their fields. The core teaching staff is made up of:

- Dr Emily Glorney is a Registered Forensic Psychologist with over 15 years of experience working in forensic practice and conducting research across secure hospitals and prisons. Emily is currently working on collaborative research projects with Broadmoor Hospital, exploring the meaning of religion and sprituality in the recovery pathways of patients and developing a quantitative observation system for the alerting of aggressive and violent behaviour.

- Professor Rosie Meek is a Chartered Psychologist and prison researcher, conducting qualitative and quantitative research throughout the UK and internationally. She works closely with a range of Criminal Justice agencies, including prisons and Immigration Removal Centres, a broad range of third sector organisations that work directly with offenders, and the Ministry of Justice. Her specialisms include prison healthcare and education, the role of the voluntary sector in reducing reoffending and promoting desistance, and the evaluation of prison-based interventions and programmes. Dr Meek’s most recent book ‘Sport in Prison’ has been used by those responsible for developing physical activity policy in prisons in England and Wales.

- Dr Laura Mickes is a Cognitive Psychologist who specialises in modelling human memory. Laura was part of the team that developed a widely-used statistical method for use in eyewitness identification research. Her current research is dedicated to identifying and developing procedures that enhance eyewitness accuracy, where she works with Identification Officers at the Metropolitan Police.

- Professor Amina Memon is a Chartered Psychologist with over 25 years of experience in higher education and research. Her research in the area of psychology and law spans cognitive, social and forensic domains. Her work is firmly grounded in policy and practice, for example she studies how to maximise the accuracy, truthfulness and credibility of witness statements, has contributed to training of the police and judiciary and has served as an expert witness in family court cases and criminal trials. Professor Memon’s background in human rights had led to her extending her research to third sector organisations such as Asylum Aid, Plan UK and Freedom From Torture.

- Dr David La Rooy is a Chartered Psychologist. He is an internationally recognised memory expert, expert in investigative interviewing techniques, and conducts research that has influenced the training of child forensic interviewers, the police, lawyers and judges around the world in how best to interview victims of child abuse. He has co-edited two volumes for the 'Wiley Series in the Psychology of Crime, Policing and Law.'

Course content and structure

The programme is made up of the following six core courses (Four delivered in the Autumn term and two in the Spring term) and the dissertation which is undertaken throughout the year.

The programme confers Stage 1 of a two-stage process of professional training in forensic psychology that is assessed by the British Psychological Society (the second stage of professional training is subsequent and external to the MSc Forensic Psychology programme at Royal Holloway). International students would be welcome on the programme of study.

The British Psychological Society requires that core knowledge domains are incorporated into the course so as to reflect the diversity of research and practice in forensic psychology. The unique selling point and emphasis of the programme at Royal Holloway is defined by the multidisciplinarity of the teaching (jointly by forensic psychologists and those carrying out research relevant to forensic psychology in the departments of Psychology and Law) and the research strengths of both departments.

Core course units:
- Research Based Practice in Forensic Psychology
- Young People in the Criminal Justice System
- The Legal Process
- Aspects of the Investigative Process
- Advanced Techniques in Social and Behavioural Research
- Statistics for Research
- Dissertation

How to apply

Applications for entry to all our full-time postgraduate degrees can be made online https://www.royalholloway.ac.uk/studyhere/postgraduate/applying/howtoapply.aspx .

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Why take this course?

Forensic psychology is an expanding field. It interfaces with other disciplines such as clinical, social and cognitive psychology, as well as criminology and law in order to address issues of major concern to the justice system, organisations, individuals and society.

This is a unique course informed by research at the forefront of the field, with many opportunities to get involved with ongoing projects within the Department.

Applications for this course close 15 January 2016 to be considered for interview on 23 or 25 February and close 15 February 2016 to be considered for interview on 22 and 24 March.

What will I experience?

On this course you can:

Be taught by the largest group of actively researching academics at the cutting edge of forensic psychology research in the UK
Put your investigative techniques to the test in our Forensic Interviewing Suite
Benefit from our connections with a variety of custodial establishments including adult male and women's prisons, young offenders' institutions and secure hospitals

What opportunities might it lead to?

Accredited by the BPS, our Master’s degree is recognised as providing an important step towards eventual chartered status as a forensic psychologist. It aims to provide you with a systematic knowledge and understanding of forensic psychology, in accordance with the academic requirements of the Division of Forensic Psychology (DFP), the British Psychological Society (BPS) for accredited courses and eventual progression to autonomous practice.

Here are some routes our graduates have pursued:

Working in prisons
Probation work
The police force
Social work
Health services
The courts
Academia
Private practice

Module Details

The course content is structured to reflect developments and priorities in the field of forensic psychology and is kept under constant review to keep it up-to-date.

Here are the units you will study:

Theory into Practice: Foundations of Professional Competence in Forensic Psychology: This unit provides a foundation for working as a scientist-practitioner. From an early introduction to concepts of reflective practice, personal development and core skills relevant to completing the course, it moves to encouraging an awareness of factors involved in criminal behaviour and their implications. The focus is on the application and development of skills in analysis and less on the learning of facts and theories. In the second part of the unit, the focus moves to tasks and challenges that forensic psychologists encounter in applied settings. Some, such as the design and evaluation of training for other personnel or consultancy skills, are of major relevance to Stage 2 of the system for progression to chartered status that usually follows the course. Others such as countering manipulation, stress and managing aggression can be crucial to survival as well as effectiveness as a practitioner.

Assessment and Interventions with Offenders: This unit is concerned with providing an understanding of the theoretical and empirical underpinnings, contents and methods of current and widely-used approaches to assessment (including risk assessment) and interventions with offenders. These approaches are linked and provide a framework for the organisation and evaluation of information, particularly in relation to efficient, useful and accurate formulation and what works in the delivery of interventions. It will build upon knowledge of factors related to criminal behaviour with a focus on effective approaches and context-related factors in the understanding and management of offenders in a variety of settings.

Empirical Research Project for Forensic Psychology: For this unit you will undertake a complete piece of empirical research in an area of forensic psychology that you find particularly interesting. It provides an opportunity to develop and integrate a range of skills and areas of knowledge including creative formulations, problem-solving, ethics, handling interpersonal demands, use of IT and analytical techniques, and writing to a publishable standard.

Investigative Psychology and the Legal Process: This focuses on the contribution made by psychology in the context of forensic investigations and the role of psychologists in criminal and civil law proceedings. It is concerned with the application of psychological research and theory in an effort to critique (and improve) practice in criminal and civil justice systems as an applied context for testing the validity and efficacy of psychological theories and innovative practice derived from these theories. Topics cover relevant procedural information to ensure you appreciate investigative, judicial and custodial processes, and the role of psychologists within these frameworks. Theory and research relevant to applied cognitive and social psychology are presented to inform an understanding of eyewitness recall and recognition memory (and memory errors), effective protocols for testing/probing witness memory, detecting deception and juror decision making.

Research Methods and Data Analysis: This unit is designed to provide a familiarity with psychological research methods and data analysis commensurate with understanding and conducting research at the postgraduate and professional level. Specific methodologies and issues of relevance to specific research areas are addressed within a perspective that emphasises creative problem-solving.

Programme Assessment

We give high priority to integrating our research activities with your teaching programme. This ensures that you learn about the most important and current issues in forensic psychology that effect real-life practice.

Teaching usually takes the form of lectures and small tutorial groups, together with practical sessions in our labs and studios.

We assess you in a variety of ways throughout the course. Here’s how:

Written examinations
Briefing reports and essays
Oral presentations
The giving of expert testimony
A research dissertation

Student Destinations

The work of forensic psychologists is varied. Depending on where practitioners work, it can range from criminal investigations to organisational change, from work with offenders to work with staff who work with offenders, and from matters of civil justice such as child access to operational emergencies such as hostage incidents.

Accredited by the BPS, our Master’s degree is recognised as providing the next important step towards eventual chartered status as a forensic psychologist. Following successful completion of this course, you will usually go on to do a minimum of two years full-time supervised practice in an employment setting.

Roles our graduates have taken on include:

Clinical psychologist
Forensic psychologist
Educational psychologist
Counsellor
Health planning analyst

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By taking this course you will study the following module Forensic Psychology module plus modules from Criminology:

Investigative and Legal Processes in Forensic Psychology
This module covers a range of theoretical and applied topics regarding investigative and judicial processes. For example, psychological principles may be applied to investigative approaches to interviewing, detecting deception, bearing false witness, offender profiling, case linkage, eyewitness memory, jury behaviour and decision-making, examining the state of mind and assessment, and expert psychological testimony (ethics, code of practice, report writing and practice). By taking this approach the student develops a critical understanding of pertinent stages in the investigative process where psychology may be used to improve interviewing strategies, as in the employment of the cognitive interview to assist in the improvement of witnesses' memory recall. This course then develops upon the investigative knowledge base provided by encouraging students to identify areas within the courtroom process where psychological techniques could be utilised. Thus, students are taken on an analytical and evaluative journey of the key criminal justice processes of the investigation and presentation of evidence in cases.

For information on the Criminology side of the course, please view the Criminology page: http://www.kingston.ac.uk/postgraduate-course/criminology-ma/

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Course Description

This online and part-time Postgraduate Diploma in Criminology and Criminal Psychology is an advanced qualification designed to give students a more in-depth understanding of the world of criminology and criminal psychology.
The course examines key areas including the nature of criminology and criminal psychology, complex criminal investigations, practical psychology for policing and advanced research methods.

Entry Requirements

There are two entry routes available for this exciting course. The “Academic Entry Route” requires an undergraduate degree from an approved institution equivalent to a UK Honours degree or a relevant professional qualification. The “Open Entry Route” requires at least 5 years’ senior level work experience. IELTS (Academic) 6.5 or equivalent is also required if English is not a student’s first language. Finally, applications will be considered individually taking into account motivation for doing the course, work experience and other relevant qualifications.

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Course Description

The final level in our MSc programme, the MSc provides students with a thorough understanding of Criminology and Criminal Psychology and provides an ideal foundation upon which to develop as an effective professional. This advanced-level course has been designed to give students a thorough understanding of cutting-edge and important topics within criminology and criminal psychology.

Criminology and Criminal Psychology is a fascinating subject, helping students to understand both the reasons why individuals commit crime and how we can improve the detection of those who do. Students explore modules such as crime, causation and criminological, complex criminal investigations, practical psychology for policing and many more.

Entry Requirements

There are two entry routes available for this exciting course. The “Academic Entry Route” requires an undergraduate degree from an approved institution equivalent to a UK Honours degree or a relevant professional qualification. The “Open Entry Route” requires at least 5 years’ senior level work experience. IELTS (Academic) 6.5 or equivalent is also required if English is not a student’s first language. Finally, applications will be considered individually taking into account motivation for doing the course, work experience and other relevant qualifications.

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Why take this course?

If you want to examine how the science of psychology can further our understanding of offending behaviour and how psychological knowledge is utilised in improving policing and victim services, as well as those working with offenders in order to reduce re-offending, this course will be of interest to you.

This degree is not accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS).

The course can be studied through campus-based or distance learning.

What will I experience?

On this course you can:

Examine how psychology can further our understanding of offending behaviour
Study how psychological knowledge informs practice within a range of criminal justice agencies
Explore psychology's contribution to working with offenders in order to reduce re-offending

What opportunities might it lead to?

Given the broad range of issues considered and the skills acquired throughout the degree programme, you will graduate with a portfolio of knowledge and abilities that will support a diverse range of career development opportunities in this field. Most of our students are in full-time employment in areas such as police, probation, law and youth programmes, etc. Their career prospects involve transfers to other units or advancing to more senior levels of management.

Module Details

You will study the following units:

Criminology Past and Present (30 credits)
Psychology and Offending Behaviour (30 credits)
Investigation and Psychology (30 credits)
Research Methods and Research Management (30 credits)
15,000-word Dissertation (60 credits)

Please note that the course structure may vary from year to year; course content and learning opportunities will not be diminished by this.

Programme Assessment

All ICJS campus-based students will be assigned a personal tutor, responsible for pastoral support and guidance, and have access to university support services including careers, financial advice, housing and counselling etc.

Assessment is based upon a range of written assignments including essays, case study, a literature review and research proposal focused on your chosen project, and finally a 15,000-word dissertation. For each assignment full academic support is provided by an academic subject expert and you will be provided with academic supervisor once you have identified your dissertation subject area.

Student Destinations

Most of our students are in full time employment in areas such as police, probation, law and youth programmes etc. Their career prospects involve transfers to other units or advancing to more senior levels of management.

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Why take this course?

If you want to examine how the science of psychology can further our understanding of offending behaviour and how psychological knowledge is utilised in improving policing and victim services, as well as those working with offenders in order to reduce re-offending, this course will be of interest to you.

This degree is not accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS).

The course can be studied through campus-based or distance learning.

What will I experience?

On this course you can:

Examine how psychology can further our understanding of offending behaviour
Study how psychological knowledge informs practice within a range of criminal justice agencies
Explore psychology's contribution to working with offenders in order to reduce re-offending

What opportunities might it lead to?

Given the broad range of issues considered and the skills acquired throughout the degree programme, you will graduate with a portfolio of knowledge and abilities that will support a diverse range of career development opportunities in this field. Most of our students are in full-time employment in areas such as police, probation, law and youth programmes, etc. Their career prospects involve transfers to other units or advancing to more senior levels of management.

Module Details

You will study the following units:

Criminology Past and Present (30 credits)
Psychology and Offending Behaviour (30 credits)
Investigation and Psychology (30 credits)
Research Methods and Research Management (30 credits)
15,000-word Dissertation (60 credits)

Please note that the course structure may vary from year to year; course content and learning opportunities will not be diminished by this.

Programme Assessment

All ICJS distance learning students are supported in the initial stages by the extended Induction Programme (online and face-to-face). Immediately following induction, an engagement officer proactively ensures any issues are resolved rapidly, and thereafter personal support is provided by your course leader for the duration of your studies.

Assessment is based upon a range of written assignments including essays, case study, a literature review and research proposal focused on your chosen project, and finally a 15,000-word dissertation. For each assignment full academic support is provided by an academic subject expert and you will be provided with academic supervisor once you have identified your dissertation subject area.

Student Destinations

Most of our students are in full time employment in areas such as police, probation, law and youth programmes etc. Their career prospects involve transfers to other units or advancing to more senior levels of management.

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This degree combines core modules in criminology and forensic psychology with optional modules on topics including drugs, trans-national crime and conflict, policing, terrorism and the major institutions of criminal justice. The programme is delivered within the Criminology and Sociology Department in the School of Law, while the forensic psychology component is taught by colleagues with specialisms in criminological psychology.

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Are you intrigued by the behaviour of criminals? Do you question what motivates people to commit shocking crimes? As more people feel insecure with their own communities, Criminology examines how we manage crime and social disorder. Studying Criminology offers career opportunities in the police and probation services, but also in other sectors that depend on an analytical mind.

Visit the website: http://bucks.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/health-and-social-sciences/pt/criminology-communities-and-disorder-pt-1718

Is this course for me?

Are you naturally curious and analytically minded? Studying Criminology will open your eyes to the problems we need to solve for society to be safer. You'll find out how we can use research methods to answer important questions and understand the criminal mind.

Most of our Criminology students have graduated from areas such as the social sciences, law and policing. However, the course is designed for anyone interested in taking the next steps towards an exciting career in Criminology.

This course also attracts professionals who want to expand their knowledge in a related field. A better understanding of Criminology is particularly useful if you work within the criminal justice system, local council or government. Examining research and theory will deal with day-to-day problems in the workplace in a more effective way.

Expanding your knowledge

As you learn about the key concepts of Criminology, you'll also examine the sociological, legal and criminal justice theories used to interpret the actions of criminals and the impact on society.

You will study the events of the last 30 years to determine how social, political and cultural motions have shaped our response to recent events.

What will this course cover?

The course reflects the latest policies and methods used within the criminal justice system. You will gain an understanding of the social causes of crime and how these issues can be effectively managed in society.

We will help develop your analytical understanding of the relationship between crime and community. Progressing to more complex issues such as social disorder and social tension, you'll see society from a range of perspectives.

Modules

Year One
• Theorising Disorder in Contemporary Society
• Risk, Communities and Crime
• Qualitative Research Methods and Analysis
• Advanced Quantitative Research Methods

Year Two
• Case Studies: Working with Communities
• Communication, Interaction and the Criminal Justice System
• Communities, Individuals and Disorder
• Dissertation
• Public International Law

What are my career prospects?

Criminology offers many different career paths. Jobs often involve managing members of the community in roles such as police officers, community development workers and prison governors.

However, there are also opportunities for graduates within social welfare roles supporting vulnerable members of society. You may also wish to work in areas such as mental health support and drug rehabilitation.

Other graduates continue their academic career and conduct social research to expand your knowledge in the area. This could involve working as a research assistant or completing a PhD.

How will you help me prepare for my future career?

By the end of the course, we'll make sure you have all the skills you need to impress potential employers. You'll be confident in applying theory and concept to understand the management of communities.

The nature of Criminology means it is highly topical and of interest to many, therefore your study prepares you for a wide range of opportunities.

How to apply

Apply here: http://bucks.ac.uk/applynow/

Funding

There are a range of funding opportunities for postgraduate students which include sponsorship, bursaries, scholarships and loans: http://bucks.ac.uk/fees_funding/postgraduate-masters-scholarships/

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Forensic psychology is one of the significant areas of development in contemporary psychology. Forensic psychologists work in, or with, the prison services, special hospitals, secure units, the courts, the police and social work, probation and community mental health services; others are employed in academic or commercial settings.

The MSc Forensic Psychology is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and is aimed at graduates with a psychology degree. It provides an important step towards professional practice and chartered status in this field. The parallel MSc Psychology in Forensic Settings offers professionals from different, related backgrounds, the opportunity to undertake training across the same subject areas but does not lead to an externally accredited psychology qualification.

Taught by academics from the Departments of Psychology, Criminology and Law, these programmes will help you adopt an independent, analytical and evaluative approach to learning and practice. In addition to the expertise within the academic community, the programmes are always increasing their strength through links with practitioners in the field of forensic psychology.

Accreditation

The programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) as the Stage 1 on the route towards Chartered Status and membership of the Division of Forensic Psychology.

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities are excellent and can range from application of psychological techniques to the detection, assessment and treatment of offenders, to advising on selection and training of staff and the development of services.

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Course Description

This online and part-time Postgraduate Certificate in Criminology and Criminal Psychology is an exciting and relevant modern subject, perfect for those interested in crime or psychology. The course has been developed by subject experts and industry specialists and is perfect for those wanting to work within a variety of occupations across both public and private sectors, including the police force, law enforcement agencies and many more.

Entry Requirements

There are two entry routes available for this exciting course. The “Academic Entry Route” requires an undergraduate degree from an approved institution equivalent to a UK Honours degree or a relevant professional qualification. The “Open Entry Route” requires at least 5 years’ senior level work experience. IELTS (Academic) 6.5 or equivalent is also required if English is not a student’s first language. Finally, applications will be considered individually taking into account motivation for doing the course, work experience and other relevant qualifications.

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