Masters Degrees (Forensic Psychology)

This course will provide you with an advanced understanding of the theoretical and applied issues in forensic psychology. Our scientist-practitioner approach equips you with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in forensic psychology practice.

The MSc in Forensic Psychology offers comprehensive professional training in forensic psychology. You will gain an in-depth experience of offending and victim pathways, as well as the investigative process. Through the use of a structured framework, you will also study theory and conduct research relating to forensic psychology practice. The course has two different routes:

Forensic Psychology, MSc (Accredited)
This route is fully accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), thereby accounting for Stage 1 of the Qualification in Forensic Psychology. Students enrolling on this route must have a first degree in psychology providing Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC) with the BPS. We will attempt to provide you with a placement within local forensic units (ie HM Prison Service, NHS, Police, or the Forensic Interview Laboratory within the School of Psychology), however, this is not always guaranteed for all students.

Forensic Psychology, MSc (Non-accredited)
This route is not accredited by the BPS and therefore does not fulfil Stage 1 of the BPS qualification in Forensic Psychology. If a student on this non-accredited route wanted to progress onto Stage 2 of the Qualification in Forensic Psychology in the future, they would need to go back and complete the necessary conversion programme to give them the requisite GBC with the BPS.

This route is aimed primarily at those students who do not possess a first degree in psychology providing GBC with the BPS, but whose degree covers research methods and statistics relevant to psychology (eg a joint or combined honours degree which includes psychology, or an international psychology degree that does not confer GBC with the BPS). Other qualifications/experience may be acceptable and will be considered by the Programme Director (eg mental health specialists, police officers, prison officers).

No placements will be provided on this route (with the exception of the Forensic Interview Laboratory within the School of Psychology - space permitting). You are, however, free to gain access to your own placement.

Northumbria Police are proud to support this course and to be working in collaboration with the School of Psychology at Newcastle University.

You will develop your understanding of forensic psychology in a multi-disciplinary and professional context. We promote collaborative teaching and research through our strong links with UK forensic psychology practitioners, including Her Majesty's Prison Service, the National Health Service (NHS) and Police.

You will gain demonstrable, advanced knowledge and critical understanding in:
-Theories and professional issues of forensic psychology
-The breadth and depth of forensic psychology
-The role of psychology within the legal system (civil and criminal)
-The National Offender Management system
-Legislation under which forensic psychologists work
-Investigative psychology and forensic interviewing
-Investigative process from pre-trial/conviction to through/after-care and restorative justice
-Legal, ethical and contextual issues in the evaluation of research and practice
-Debating and using evidence from appropriate literature
-Legal processes

You will also gain professional skills in:
-Writing parole board and analytical reports
-Developing forensic case formulations
-Independent learning
-Project planning
-Problem solving
-Time management
-Teamwork
-Reflection

Your specialist skills and knowledge will be developed through a combination of:
-Written reports
-Reflective journals
-Interview guides
-Oral presentations

Facilities

The School of Psychology provides high quality facilities to all our students, researchers and staff. We are located in the Ridley Building where you will have access to a postgraduate resources room with networked computers and printer.

Accreditation

This course has been accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS). The accreditation shows that the course meets the standards set by the BPS.

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The Forensic Psychology MSc will provide you with a thorough grounding in the theory, themes, issues and practical skills central to psychological research into behaviour relevant to crime and forensic settings.

The programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society as fulfilling the Stage 1 requirements towards becoming a Chartered Psychologist and obtaining Full Membership of the Division of Forensic Psychology with the British Psychological Society. Graduates of the programme who go on to successfully complete Stage 2 of the qualification in Forensic Psychology will be eligible to apply for registration with the UK Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC).

WHY CHOOSE THIS COURSE?

The course was designed to cover the BPS Division of Forensic Psychology's (DFP) core curriculum. Many experienced forensic psychology practitioners visit the course to contribute their knowledge. It will give you an opportunity to gain an understanding of how psychology works in a forensic setting.

The course has been accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) as fulfilling the Stage 1 requirements towards becoming a Chartered Psychologist and obtaining Full Membership of the Division of Forensic Psychology with the British Psychological Society. and a Forensic Psychologist registered with the UK Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC). Graduates of the programme who go on to successfully complete Stage 2 of the qualification in Forensic Psychology will be eligible to apply for registration with the UK Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC). The requirements for Stage 2 involve a period of supervised practice in a forensic setting. Please see the BPS and HCPC websites for more information.

WHAT WILL I LEARN?

You will complete the twelve modules listed below. The first five 10-credit modules cover the theoretical basis of forensic psychology across a range of settings, through all stages of the criminal justice process, i.e. from investigation to punishment and through care, and as applied to a broad range of crimes. A double (20-credit) module provides an overview of a key aspect of forensic practice, risk assessment and the associated risk management of offenders. Two further 10-credit modules are particular features of this course and explore the legal process (taught by the Coventry Law School), and practice and application in forensic psychology (involving a number of guest speakers who are practitioners in forensic settings). The latter module is delivered in a four day intensive teaching block in June that provides students with a variety of teaching delivery styles. Two modules (30 credits) cover advanced research methods including both quantitative and qualitative methods, and a further 10 credit module focusing on study skills and project planning prepares students for the final module (50 credits), which is an independent research dissertation/project.

-Psychology and Criminal Behaviour (M81PY)
-Psychology in the Criminal Justice System (M82PY)
-Treatment of Offenders and Victims (M144PY)
-Applied Police Psychology (M141PY)
-Violent and Sexual Crime (M87PY)
-Risk Assessment and Management of Offenders (M143PY)
-The English Legal Process (M48CLS)
-Practice and Application in Forensic Psychology (M86PY)
-Advanced Quantitative Research Methods (M140PY)
-Advanced Qualitative Research Methods (M139PY)
-Study Skills, Project Planning and Ethics (M142PY)
-Dissertation (M70PY)

HOW WILL THIS COURSE ENHANCE MY CAREER PROSPECTS?

The MSc Forensic Psychology provides career opportunities in a variety of forensic settings, such as the prison, probation and police services, local government and other agencies. Expected jobs are varied but may include Assistant Forensic Psychologist, Crime Scene Analyst, Prison Psychologist, Lecturer in Forensic Psychology, Researcher, Police Analyst, Police Officer and Probation Officer.

Course alumni have gone on to work in a wide range of settings and roles such as psychological assistants and trainees in a range of settings (including in prisons and mental health settings), probation officers and psychologists within probation, drug support workers, youth offending team staff, police analysts, university lecturers, PhD students, academic researchers and at least one alumnus has set up a new forensic related company.

GLOBAL LEADERS PROGRAMME

To prepare students for the challenges of the global employment market and to strengthen and develop their broader personal and professional skills Coventry University has developed a unique Global Leaders Programme.

The objectives of the programme, in which postgraduate and eligible undergraduate students can participate, is to provide practical career workshops and enable participants to experience different business cultures.

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Course Overview

The MSc Forensic Psychology is the only BPS accredited programme in Wales, offering a unique opportunity for students to study Forensic Psychology in Wales. Working collaboratively with NOMS Cymru (National Offender Management Services, Wales), helps keep the programme up to date with strategy development and policy decisions. Regular contributions from practitioners within the Principality enable students to understand more about services within Wales and their impact on our society locally. We also have many national contributors who share their extensive knowledge and experience.​

Due to the popularity of this programme you should submit your application at the earliest opportunity, and at the very latest by 29th July. ​

See the website https://www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/health/courses/Pages/Forensic-Psychology---MSc-.aspx

​Course Content​​

Forensic Psychology is the practice and application of psychological research relevant to crime, policing, the courts, the criminal and civil justice system, offenders, prison, secure settings, offender management, health and academic settings as well as private practice.

It looks at the role of environmental, psychosocial, and socio-cultural factors that may contribute to crime or its prevention. The primary aim of Forensic Psychology as an academic discipline is to develop understanding of the processes underlying criminal behaviour and for this improved understanding to impact on the effective management and rehabilitation of different groups of offenders in all settings within the criminal justice system.

The first aim of the programme is to provide students with a thorough and critical academic grounding in the evidence relating to environmental, cultural, cognitive and biological factors that may contribute to a wide variety of forms of offending. The programme will encourage students to consider the role and limitations of causal explanations for offending in the development of offender treatments, services and policy.

The second aim of the programme is to introduce students to the basic professional competencies for working in the many settings where forensic psychology is practiced, including skills related to inter-disciplinary working, risk assessment, ethics, continuing professional development, report writing and differences in practice when working with offenders, victims, the courts and the police.

The programme aims to produce Masters degree graduates with the ability to understand the limitations of the conceptual underpinnings of interventions and assessments used in forensic psychology and who are able therefore to engage in critical evaluation of the evidence base upon which their own practice will eventually be based. The programme will specifically avoid providing any formal supervised practice. Its aim is to produce reflective scientist-practitioners who will be ready to engage with the next stage of training (i.e. BPS Stage 2 or HCPC route) towards registration as a Forensic Psychologist with the Health and Care Professions Council.

Students will complete the following taught modules and will also be required to conduct a novel, supervised research dissertation with participants preferably drawn from a forensic setting:

Research Methods and Design (30 credits)
The aim of this module is to extend students knowledge and experience of quantitative and qualitative research methods. Topics covered include: randomised control trials, ANOVA, ANCOVA, MANOVA, Power analysis, Regression, Non parametric methods, interviews, discourse analysis, grounded theory, reflective analysis and psychometric evaluation.

Forensic Mental Health (20 credits)
This module aims to provide students with a critical examination of the relationship between mental illness, personality disorder, learning disability and criminal behaviour. The module will encourage students to view the mental health needs of offenders in the broadest possible context and to appreciate the inter-disciplinary nature of services available to mentally disordered offenders, difficulties in accessing those services and problems for custodial adjustment presented by specific psychiatric diagnoses

Professional Practice and Offender Management (20 credits)
The focus of this module is the professional practice of forensic psychology. The module builds on the groundwork laid by earlier modules and covers professional skills and the types of interventions that a practicing forensic psychologist may engage in. The topics covered by this module include ethics, report writing, working with other agencies, and working with offenders and victims.

Psychological Assessments and Interventions (20 credits)
This module covers psychology as it may be applied to the reduction of re-offending by convicted criminals. The central focus of the module is the 'what works' literature. A range of topics will be covered demonstrating the broad application of psychology to offender rehabilitation in the Criminal Justice System, and within Wales particularly. These topics include: (1) Offender assessment: risk, need and protective factors (2) factors affecting response to treatment; (3) ethical issues of compulsory treatment; and (4) interventions for a range of offending behaviours.

Theories of Criminal Behaviour (10 credits)
The module aims to examine the contribution made by biological, psychodynamic, evolutionary, cognitive and socio-cultural perspectives to our understanding of the aetiology of criminal behaviour. It will explore psychological theories of a variety of offending behaviours such as: violence, aggression, domestic abuse, sex offending, vehicle crime, fire setting as well as gangs and gangs membership.

Legal Psychology (10 credits)
This module covers psychology as it may be applied to the law, and the central focus of the module is evidence. A range of topics will be covered, demonstrating the broad application of psychology within the legal system. These topics include the interviewing of suspects and witnesses, vulnerable victims, offender profiling and the detection of deception.

Addiction and Psychological Vulnerabilities (10 credits)
This module informs students about different factors that may contribute to psychological vulnerability in offenders and victims. A variety of topics will be covered, including issues around the concept of addictive behaviours, vulnerability and the protection of vulnerable adults, including factors which may increase vulnerability to offending and victimisation.

Learning & Teaching​

​Teaching on the MSc Forensic Psychology Programme is predominantly conducted in small groups and adopts an interactive approach. The Research Methods and Design module and the Dissertation workshops are the only part of the programme which is taught in a larger group of around 40 to 50 students as opposed to between 10 and 20 students on the core modules. As a result teaching involves a range of discussions, activities, evaluations of papers, case studies and role play exercises. The focus within the programme is on both content and key skills to develop specialists in the field of forensic psychology with flexible generic skills. These experiences also help to foster student development and confidence as independent life-long learners.

Student learning is promoted through a variety of learning and teaching methods. These include: lectures, workshops, online learning through the virtual learning environment, Moodle, as well as self directed learning. Each student will have an allocated personal tutor to support them through their period of study.

As this programme is accredited by the BPS, there is a requirement for students to attend at least 80% of the taught sessions for the programme.

Assessment

The MSc is assessed by a range of different coursework assignments – e.g. presentations, reports, essays, reflective reports, academic posters, research proposal. There are no examinations.

Employability & Careers​

An MSc in Forensic Psychology is the first step (stage one) in gaining Chartered Psychologist status with the British Psychological Society (BPS) and Registered Practitioner status with the Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC). The MSc in Forensic Psychology will provide the knowledge base and applied research skills that will provide the foundation for stage two of the chartered process that requires a minimum of two years of full-time supervised practice with an appropriate client group.

Find information on Scholarships here https://www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/scholarships

Find out how to apply here https://www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/howtoapply

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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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This MSc provides the academic training required for a career as a forensic psychologist- http://www.gold.ac.uk/pg/msc-forensic-psychology/

Are you interested in training to become a forensic psychologist?

Or are you already working in the criminal justice or forensic mental health systems and keen to learn more about the theory and practice behind forensic psychology?

The programme will introduce you to a range of psychological theories, methods and processes within the context of the legal, criminal and civil justice systems.

Based at a research-led London university with strong links to forensic services, you’ll be taught by world-class researchers, and experienced practitioners from the NHS, and the prison and probation service.

Led by chartered forensic clinical psychologist Dr Caoimhe McAnena, the MSc also includes contributions from world-class researchers and practitioners who will teach on the programme and supervise research projects.

We have been awarded full British Psychological Society (BPS) accreditation, which will give you the opportunity to gain Graduate and/or Chartered Membership of the Society.

Placement

One of the major strengths of this course is our strong links with local forensic mental health services. For 2015 entry we offered up to five studentships that covered tuition fees and a placement opportunity, enabling students to study part-time while working part-time in an NHS or prison setting.

Contact the department

If you have specific questions about the degree, contact Dr Fiona Gabbert.

Modules & Structure

Overview

The course will cover the assessment and treatment of offenders, risk assessment methods, and treatment of offenders with mental health and personality disorders.

There will be a focus on criminal investigations by examining psychological issues in eyewitness identification, investigative interviewing of witnesses and suspects, psychological profiling and detecting deception.

You'll also explore legal and criminological concepts relevant to contemporary social issues and organisations. Issues relating to ethics, human rights, professional practice and research will be emphasised to provide a firm grounding for further professional training and practice.

By completing this programme you will:

Develop your knowledge and understanding of the application of psychology to processes in the criminal and civil justice system (eg investigation, trial, the work of the expert witness)
Develop a thorough knowledge of psychological theories and interventions in relation to a range of specific client groups, such as sexual and violent offenders, people with personality disorder and mental health difficulties, juveniles and victims of crime
Be introduced to a range of psychometric instruments used widely within forensic psychology, and develop your skills in interpreting and communicating the outcome of these assessments
Develop the knowledge and skills required to undertake forensic psychological research, including the design, implementation and interpretation of service evaluations, clinical audit, and outcome research within forensic settings

Structure

The programme is comprised of 5 core modules totalling 150 credits and 2 option modules totalling 30 credits.

The core modules will include:

Psychology and Law
Investigation in Forensic Psychology
Assessment and Intervention in Forensic Psychology
Applied research design and analysis
Research project

Two option modules may be selected from a range of courses offered in the Department of Psychology, for example:

Addictive Behaviours
Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Self and Relationships
Psychology and Education
Social-Moral Development

Professional training

This new programme aims to satisfy the academic component of professional training in forensic psychology. Accreditation by the British Psychological Society (BPS) as meeting the requirement for Stage One of the BPS Diploma in Forensic Psychology has been applied for. When accredited, successful completion will allow you to enrol in the BPS Qualification in Forensic Psychology (Stage Two) with the aim of achieving the Division of Forensic Psychology (DFP) Qualification in Forensic Psychology, and becoming a Chartered Psychologist with the DFP and Practitioner Forensic Psychologist with the Health and Care Professions Council.

Careers

Graduates of the programme will be well-qualified a wide range careers in:

-the criminal justice system
-health services
-civil society

Relevant career opportunities are available in the:

-prison and probation service
-NHS
-police and voluntary sector organisations

Many of these posts will be training positions to allow the completion of the Stage Two qualification in Forensic Psychology described above.

Other entry requirements

Subject to having GBC accreditation, completion of this Masters course will fulfil the requirements of Stage 1 training to become a Chartered Psychologist. For non GBC candidates the qualification will not be recognised as fulfilling Stage 1 DFP training, but will apply retrospectively if GBC is obtained at a later date.

Funding

Please visit http://www.gold.ac.uk/pg/fees-funding/ for details.

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The MSc Forensic Psychology course provides a strong emphasis on the application of Forensic Psychology in professional practice, and practising Forensic psychologists are employed by the School to lecture on the course. All of the more theoretical modules include topics on how the theory is applied in practice. The MSc reflects the academic skills underpinning the application of psychology to a forensic setting.

MSc Forensic Psychology attends to victims and offenders. With regard to the latter, it follows the progression of an offender from their first contact with the criminal justice system until their eventual release into the community and/or transfer to conditions of less security. The role of on-going assessment, intervention and throughcare are emphasised throughout.

LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND ASSESSMENT

This course is delivered through lectures, seminars, practical workshops and independent learning sessions. Taught units account for 75 per cent of the award. The primary purpose of the taught component is to further students’ academic knowledge (including of advanced research methodology) and how this can be applied to Forensic Psychology in practice. The remaining 25 per cent of the course is based on an advanced research project; a substantial empirical investigation that will make a contribution to Forensic Psychology.

OPPORTUNITIES

A number of our graduates acquire trainee forensic psychologist positions, or go on to other careers associated with the Legal and/or Criminal Justice System.

The MSc Forensic Psychology course does not directly source work experience and does not offer placements, yet does actively support students in seeking employment, being paid or voluntary.

FURTHER INFORMATION

The major aim of this postgraduate course is to equip psychology graduates with the British Psychological Society Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) for Stage 1 professional training in Forensic Psychology, and to equip them with some of the knowledge needed for future practice as Chartered Forensic Psychologists, following completion of Stage 2 training - a minimum of two years supervised practice.

MSc Forensic Psychology reflects the academic skills underpinning the application of psychology to a forensic setting. It is currently accredited by the British Psychological Society to provide Stage 1 (academic) training for Full Membership of the Division of Forensic Psychology. In common with other accredited MSc courses, Stage 2 training for Full Membership (supervised practice element) is not provided via the MSc.

This course incorporates changes reflecting the demand for quality training within the UK and other EU countries. The course aims to facilitate and evaluate student competence in core academic areas of forensic psychology, through supportive seminars, lectures, coursework, examination and independent study and research supervision. A final aim is to facilitate and evaluate student competence in the production of a research project designed to assess their ability to integrate core information from the course, implement it within a research setting, and demonstrate a good level of organisational and communication skills. Stage 2 training (a minimum of two years supervised practice) is not provided by the MSc and students will need to complete Stage 2 in order to qualify a Forensic Psychologists. The MSc does not contribute towards Stage 2 training.

The course comprises nine compulsory modules, which include advanced methods in psychology, applying psychology to the legal process, attributes of offenders and victims, forensic mental health, forensic risk assessment (including HCR-20 training), professional practice, intervention with offenders, and a research dissertation. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars and self-directed study and assessment is by a combination of exam and coursework.

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Course Overview

The Doctorate in Forensic Psychology is approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), and is the only British Psychological Society accredited programme in Wales. Upon completion, the programme provides students with eligibility to apply to the register to practice as Forensic Psychologists in the UK, and to gain Chartered Psychologist status with the British Psychological Society (BPS).

The intake for Top-Up Doctorate takes place in January and September each year. The Top-Up Doctorate is designed for qualified Forensic Psychologists who would like to undertake a research project on an aspect of specialism. The intake for the Full Doctorate programme takes place in September each year, and we would encourage applicants to apply before June of the year they would like to commence studies.

See the website https://www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/health/courses/Pages/Forensic-Psychology-Doctorate.aspx

​Course Content​​

Flexibility is the essence of our approach to student learning. The Doctorate Programme facilitates students entering and exiting at different places within the Programme depending on the individual needs of the student. Thus, the full Doctorate programme comprises:
- MSc in Forensic Psychology
- Postgraduate Diploma in Practitioner Forensic Psychology
- ‘Top-Up’ doctorate, which is the higher level research component.

The Top-Up Doctorate will be available to registered practitioners who are seeking to formalise their research and clinical skills in an area of specialism. Applicants completing the Top-Up Doctorate will submit a research thesis reporting a significantly large piece of research.

Applicants to the Doctorate Programme may apply for the Full Programme, or for the MSc or PG Diploma, depending on their own individual needs and career progression. Applicants who apply for the MSc may (on successful completion) later apply for the PG Diploma and ‘Top-Up’ Doctorate. Students, who progress through the course on individual programmes will, after successful completion of all the component programmes, be awarded the Doctorate in Forensic Psychology.

In this way, within one programme and its flexible entry and exit points, we hope to provide a full range of higher-level academic study, further training and higher level research. We are not currently accepting applications for the full Doctorate programme in its entirety.

Applicants who are unsure whether to apply for the full programme, or individual component programmes, are encouraged to ring or email the programme directors to discuss their individual needs in more detail. ​

Learning & Teaching​

​For the learning and teaching mechanisms on the component programmes, please see those specific web pages:
- MSc in Forensic Psychology
- Postgraduate Diploma in Practitioner Forensic Psychology

For the Top Up Doctorate, the thesis will be a large piece of independent research study. Each student will be assigned a supervision team who will be responsible for supporting and supervising the student during their research. At least 6 supervision meetings will be held each year, and a thorough review of training needs will be established and reviewed each year. The individual needs of the student will be met through either higher level Research Methods teaching at Cardiff Metropolitan University, or specialised external training. It is anticipated that many students on the Top Up component may be based some distant from Cardiff and in those cases the supervision team will support meetings through Skype or video conferencing. However, where additional training requires students to attend the university, it is expected that the student will factor this into their time commitments.

Assessment

The programme is assessed at the MSc programme by coursework assessment; and in the work-based practice by supervision reviews, and by coursework only, there are no exams. Examples of assessments include: case study exemplars, reflective reports, supervision and practice logs. See the specifics details on the component programme pages:
- MSc in Forensic Psychology
- Postgraduate Diploma in Practitioner Forensic Psychology

The research thesis is assessed by viva voce examination.

Employability & Careers​

A Doctorate in Forensic Psychology incorporates both Stage 1 and Stage 2 training as set out by the British Psychological Society. The Doctorate enables graduates to gain Chartered Psychologist status with the British Psychological Society (BPS) and Registered Practitioner status with the Health Care Professionals Council (HCPC)​.

Find information on Scholarships here https://www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/scholarships

Find out how to apply here https://www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/howtoapply

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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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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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The MSc Investigative & Forensic Psychology is a one year, full-time postgraduate programme. It is accredited by the British Psychological Society and recognised as the first step towards status as a Chartered Forensic Psychologist in the UK for students who have Graduate Basis for Chartership. The course is also recognised by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) as a Research Methods MSc and students taking this course are eligible for the ESRC 1 + 3 studentships.

The MSc provides students with a high quality, balanced postgraduate programme of research and academic knowledge including, awareness of professional, legal and ethical issues, and practical, communication and dissemination skills in Investigative and Forensic Psychology. The programme takes a three-tiered approach.

Students begin with structured sessions on conceptual and theoretical issues (including aggression, sexual violence and deviance, decision-making, leadership and stress, memory, communication and persuasion, and the psychology of crowd dynamics).

They then appreciate how these and related issues can be applied to forensic practice and its legal context (in terms of crime reduction and intervention studies; investigative procedures, forensic interviewing, court processes and proceedings, assessment, custody and rehabilitation).

Finally, they gain skills in communicating knowledge and conducting relevant research on case assessments of individuals and organisations

Why Choose Investigative and Forensic Psychology?

- This course is unique in that it is the only MSc accredited course of its type in a Russell Group University. It is viewed worldwide by many to be the home of Investigative Psychology
- The number and calibre of external practitioners whom deliver key understanding of real life applications, makes the MSc Investigative and Forensic Psychology distinct from any other.
- The University of Liverpool has the largest representation of psychologists in Europe, who are research active on Law Enforcement projects.
- High quality teaching and a strong focus on employability skills mean that our students have gone on to be some of the most successful individuals in the field.
- The MSc Investigative and Forensic Psychology is renowned worldwide and attracts a large number of International students and visiting speakers each year. In an increasingly global world it is important to raise awareness of the role cultural factors play in psychological functioning and how these may differ from the findings of mainstream Western research.
- This MSc Investigative and Forensic Psychology was the first course of its type to receive five commendations by the British Psychological Society.

Key Facts

Research Assessment Exercise 2008
Targeting our key areas of interest we've systematically enhanced our research base, culture and infrastructure, whilst building internationally influential groups.

Our work is theoretically robust and problem and policy focused, with a research agenda that's socially relevant and postgraduate teaching that's truly research-led.

Why School of Psychology?

Breadth and choice

Reflecting our main research strengths, we offer two one-year, full-time, taught Masters (MSc) programmes in:

Investigative and Forensic Psychology
Research Methods in Psychology.
For details of all MRes/MPhil/PhD and MD opportunities in the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, see the Research course list at http://www.liv.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research/

Professionally recognised

The Investigative and Forensic Psychology course is recognised by the Division of Forensic Psychology (DFP, British Psychological Society) and counts towards Chartered Forensic Status.

Innovative research

As home to the Centre for Investigative Psychology, we continue to stretch the boundaries of psychological inquiry with innovative research activity.

We've highly active, internationally renowned research groups and, in the most recent Research Assessment Exercise (2008), 80% of our research activity was rated as of international standard.

Our partners

Our partners include local hospitals and schools, the Regional Neurological and Neurosurgical NHS Trust, Prison Psychology departments, national and international Police Forces and associated Law Enforcement Agencies. There are also close links with other University departments in the Faculty of Science and Engineering, the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, and the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences; in particular, Clinical Psychology, Neuroscience, and Human Anatomy. Numerous collaborations exist between members of staff and their colleagues in other academic institutions both nationally and internationally.

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Supporting the requirements of the British Psychological Society’s Division of Forensic Psychology, this course focuses of developing the expertise and qualities you will need to gain employment at a senior level.

Covering all the main topics and involving advanced study in research methods and professional skills, you will receive stage one training towards becoming a chartered psychologist.

This course is accredited by the British Psychological Society.

Visit the website: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/courses/postgraduate/next-year/forensic-psychology#about

Course detail

• Study the links between scientific theory and practice, and learn to show how a critical understanding of theory may guide the collection and interpretation of empirical data
• Explore your ability to communicate forensic-related material using appropriate methods of delivery to other psychology and non-psychology professionals
• Develop a systematic understanding and critical awareness of current problems, and gain new insights into the theory and practice of forensic psychology
• Gain a high level of knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methods which will allow you to perform complex data analysis, interpretation, evaluation and synthesis
• Benefit from an increased sense of personal responsibility and professionalism that will enable you to practice or conduct research within ethical guidelines while being aware of the requirements of equal opportunities and disabilities legislation.

Modules

• Advanced Research Methods For Forensic Psychology (PSY026-6) Compulsory
• Criminal Psychology (PSY023-6) Compulsory
• Dissertation (PSY031-6) Compulsory
• Forensic Psychology In Practice 1 (PSY028-6) Compulsory
• Forensic Psychology In Practice 2 (PSY029-6) Compulsory
• Investigative Psychology (PSY024-6) Compulsory
• Legal Psychology (PSY025-6) Compulsory
• Professional Skills For Forensic Psychologists (PSY030-6) Compulsory
• Rehabilitation & Recidivism (PSY027-6) Compulsory

Assessment

The assessment strategy reflects the academic rigor expected of a BPS accredited MSc. degree.

The assessments are designed to test your academic knowledge, oral and written skills, use of literature using primary and secondary sources, critical analysis of ideas, connections made between theory, practice, real life situations and the understanding and application of professional values including ethical issues as detailed by the BPS.

The ability to engage in research at a high level and to analyse data using advanced statistical techniques are assessed as these are important skills for forensic psychologists as well as important in many employment settings. Communication skills are assessed through videotaped role play as these are very important in any career. The ability to analyse and understand issues and apply theory to practice are assessed through a consultancy brief.

Finally the important career skill of project management is assessed mainly through the research dissertation involving self-directed problem-based enquiry, managing time, reviewing evidence, generating and analysing data and communicating results in an extended piece of writing.

Careers

Forensic psychology can be evidenced in a range of settings such as the prison and probation service, the NHS, during criminal investigations and in community settings. However, the advanced route to registration in forensic psychology is only one possibility and, having completed your degree you will find that many career opportunities are open to you both inside and outside the forensic sector and psychology related fields. Whatever your thoughts, forensic psychology is compelling as both a discipline and a profession. Studying for the MSc in Forensic Psychology will give you a good grounding in:

• Applying what you learn to simulated real life contexts (e.g., in a courtroom setting)
• The unit on professional skills in particular develops the skills expected from a forensic psychologist and other professions dealing with challenging behaviours. These skills include motivational interviewing, report writing, training skills, working in multidisciplinary environments, building relationships with other professionals.
• Assessment of risks and needs.
• Working in multidisciplinary teams.
• Communication skills such as summarizing complex information to communicate to others.
• Complex problem solving.

Funding

For information on available funding, please follow the link: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/money/scholarships/pg

How to apply

For information on how to apply, please follow the link: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/course/applicationform

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The MSc in Applied Forensic Psychology and MSc in Forensic Psychology Studies (for students without Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership with the British Psychological Society) are renowned for producing high calibre graduates. Feedback from employers indicates they are consistently impressed with the ability of York graduates to apply theory to practice and this is reflected in the destinations of many of our recent graduates.

The courses provide an equal balance of practice-based, methodological and theoretically driven modules designed to foster autonomy within the bounds of professional practice, independent learning and self-directed reflection. The highly specialist forensic modules, delivered by practising experts in the field, combined with generic practice-based modules, tutorials and the support of a highly experienced core course team, will provide you with the requisite practitioner-based skills, understanding, and knowledge to work effectively and increase your employability in a forensic setting. The MSc in Applied Forensic Psychology will also facilitate chartership within the British Psychological Society Division of Forensic Psychology for students who go on to undertake a further two years of forensic practice as outlined in the conditions for membership.

The MSc Applied Forensic Psychology course is formally accredited by the British Psychological Society.

Content

The MSc in Applied Forensic Psychology and MSc in Forensic Psychology Studies are full-time (51-week), 180-credit programmes divided into seven modules (6 taught, 1 independent study):

The practitioner skills modules will facilitate confidence in your ability to work as a practitioner in a forensic setting and will also provide you with leading edge information technology, presentation and communication skills required for a wide variety of roles.
The research evidence and theory modules will provide a grounding in theory, research methods and statistics that will provide the key skills for employment in a variety of settings (e.g., prisons, secure units, the police, prison and probation services) and the key skills for those who wish to pursue a research degree in a forensic or a related field.

The empirical research project will provide the academic grounding for those wishing to pursue an academic career or gain more specialist knowledge in a particular topic area.

Assessment

Students on both courses are encouraged to write concisely to a high academic standard for a range of different audiences. Hence, assessment methods are varied and include assessed coursework and closed exams:
-Short answer paper
-Briefing paper
-Case formulation
-Open essay
-Research protocol
-Multiple choice paper
-Practical reports
-Empirical research project

Students will be allocated a personal supervisor to monitor their progress throughout the academic year and provide support and guidance if necessary.

Placements

The MSc in Applied Forensic Psychology course does not include a placement component. However, some students may be able to obtain voluntary work experience in forensic settings to complement their studies. In addition, the course team is sometimes able to help secure placements for students who have little or no forensic experience, although this cannot be guaranteed. As well as receiving supervision from the provider, students will also be assigned to a member of the course team who will oversee their performance throughout the placement. Since they are not a required or essential component of the MSc course, placements are not assessed.

You are advised to contact local organisations at the start of the Autumn Term if you are considering undertaking work experience during your studies. Please also be aware that some placement providers (particularly charities) may require volunteers to commit for a full year and this should be borne in mind when arranging accommodation.

Our students have succeeded in securing placements with the following establishments/organisations:
-HMP Doncaster
-HMP Full Sutton
-Durham and Tees Valley Probation Trust
-The Farndon Unit
-Strength to Change, Hull
-Stockton Hall Hospital, York
-North Yorkshire Probation
-Rampton Secure Hospital

In the 2015/16 academic year, students have undertaken work experience with:
-Stockton Hall Hospital, York
-Circles of Support and Accountability
-The Petros Organisation, York
-NSPCC
-The University of York (supporting PhD students)
-YACRO
-Springwood Lodge Hospital, Leeds

On some occasions, students have managed to secure full or part-time employment with the placement provider after graduating from the MSc programme.

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Overview

This course is accredited by the British Psychological Society and approved by the Health Professional Council.

The Professional (practitioner) Doctorate Forensic Psychology aims to educate and train psychology graduates to work with victims and/or offenders under the supervision of registered forensic psychologists and to attain the highest standards of research and practice. In collaboration with Institute of Mental Health (IMH), the course aims to develop skills such as assessment, management, intervention, treatment and evaluation.

A Top-up Doctorate in Forensic Psychology (DForenPsy) is also available to allow postgraduate psychologists already holding a British Psychological Society (BPS) accredited MSc Criminological/Forensic/Investigative Psychology to obtain a doctorate through applying their knowledge to practice with victims or offenders.

Academic Team

Professor Kevin Browne, Professor of Forensic Psychology and Child Health, Director of the Centre for Family and Forensic Psychology and Director of the D.Foren.Psy. Programme
Dr Vince Egan, Associate Professor, Forensic Psychology Practice, Year 3 Director
Dr Simon Duff, Lecturer in Forensic Psychology Practice, Year 2 Director
Dr Shihning Chou, Lecturer in Forensic Psychology Practice, Year 1 Director

Year 1

In the first year you will study a masters programme consisting of eight modules. On successful completion of the masters component, you may progress on to the doctorate component or exit with an MSc Criminological Psychology.

Years 2 and 3

During the doctorate component, you will apply your knowledge to practice while on placement in forensic environments. You will experience interventions with children and adults in community and secure settings and develop skills and competency in four core areas:

--conducting psychological applications and interventions
--case studies, research and evaluation
--communicating knowledge to other professionals
--training other professionals in psychological skills and methods

At the end of the course, you will submit a thesis on your research and practice in a specific area of forensic psychology.

Modules

In the first year you will study a masters programme consisting of eight modules:

--Theories of Criminal Behaviour
--Forensic Child Psychology
--Forensic Mental Health
--Law and Criminal Justice
--Forensic Organisational Psychology
--Forensic Practice Interventions
--Research Methods and Analyses
--Research Project

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The Master of Science in Forensic Psychology is a 36-credit online program that provides students with insight into the intersection of psychology and legal issues. Students gain an understanding of what forensic psychologists do and will learn how to apply this training in a variety of professional contexts.

This degree program will provide students with the professional training necessary to function at an optimal level in a variety of forensic settings where psychology is used including: courts, law enforcement, criminal justice, national security offices, prisons, social services agencies, child welfare agencies, and treatment facilities.

Many students in our program have specialized in law, mental health or other health services and want to work in the forensic area. Others are interested in furthering their careers and assuming more senior level positions. Some of our students use this degree to make them more competitive when applying for a doctoral program.

The online format and non-clinical curriculum make the program an excellent option for working professionals needing to integrate graduate study with job responsibilities. The program also targets those living in rural or frontier areas in and outside the United States, those with limited or no access to this type of graduate level educational program, and individuals working non-traditional shift schedules, such as those in law enforcement, corrections, national security, and the military.

Important Note

There is no licensure or certification in Florida or most states for Forensic Psychology at this time. It is considered a subspecialty of other clinical mental health or legal programs

Curriculum

The Master of Science in Forensic Psychology degree program requires a total of 36 semester hours of graduate course work. The program consists of a core of 24 credits and students are required to complete one of two possible 9-credit specialization tracks, and a 3-credit capstone course. Students can choose to complete either a thesis or a field experience for their capstone's content, although if students are looking to continue their studies it is recommended they chose the research option.

Core Courses (3 credits each)

• PSY 0900 - Introduction to Forensic Psychological Science
• PSY 0901 - Psychopathology, Personality Disorders, and Behavioral Interventions in Forensic Settings
• PSY 0902 - Methods & Tools of Psychological & Violence Risk Assessment
• PSY 0903 - Evaluation, Methodology, and Psychological Research
• PSY 0904 - Ethical Concerns & Multicultural Issues in Forensic Psychology
• PSY 0905 - Communication Skills and Tools in Forensic Psychology
• PSY 0906 - Best Practices and Policies for the Mentally Ill in the Criminal Justice System
• PSY 0907 - Gender Violence: Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault & Child Abuse

Specialisation Tracks

Students will choose one of the following two specialisation tracks:

TRACK 1: FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGY IN THE LEGAL SYSTEM (9 Credits - Choose 3 courses from below)

• PSY 0908 - Psychological Issues in Dependency & Family Law Cases
• PSY 0909 - Therapeutic Jurisprudence & Problem-Solving Courts
• PSY 0910 - Assessment of Psychological Injury for Legal Cases
• PSY 0911 - Understanding Psychological Reports and Expert Witness Testimony
• PSY 0912 - Psychological Evaluation of Competencies, Syndromes, & Sanity Issues
• PSY 0913 / CJI 6230 - Behavioral Criminology
• PSY 0914 - Capstone Project in Forensic Psychology in the Legal System

TRACK 2: FORSENSIC PSYCHOLOGY FOR MENTAL HEALTH WORKERS, FIRST RESPONDERS AND DISASTER TEAMS (9 Credits - choose 3 courses from below)

• PSY 0915 - Suicide Prevention & Crisis Intervention Skills
• PSY 0916 - Trauma Informed Assessment and Intervention
• PSY 0917 - Child Maltreatment and Trauma Assessment and Intervention
• PSY 0918 - Intervening in School & Workplace Violence
• PSY 0919 - Substance Abuse, Mental Illness and Trauma
• PSY 0920 / CJI 6220 - Police Psychology
• PSY 0921 - Capstone Course in Forensic Psychology for First Responders and Disaster Team Workers

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This MSc Forensic Psychology course offers you the chance to learn about some of the most dangerous offenders in society, their victims, approaches to assisting police with their enquires (investigative psychology), the criminal justice system from a psychological perspectives and to enhance your skills in communication, group work, professionalism and ICT.

We will also improve your research skills and knowledge, through teaching you how to design high-level research projects, conduct statistical analysis, and to evaluate and scientifically report research findings.

The core aim of the course is to prepare students to work with clients and professionals in a range of forensic and forensic-related settings. Equipped with a sound knowledge of key theoretical and applied issues in forensic psychology, you will gain not only a critical appreciation of theoretical and factual concepts, but an awareness of the strengths and limitations of research evidence. The course integrates psychological theory with the development of practical skills and an understanding of professional practice.

What's covered in the course?

The aims of the programme are to:
-Equip you with a detailed critical understanding of the key theoretical and applied issues in forensic psychology, including the development of offending behaviour, re-offending, the effects of offending on victims, and the assessment and treatment of offenders;
-Provide training in forensic methods primarily from a psychological standpoint, but also to familiarise you with the perspectives of a range of professions involved in the assessment and treatment of offenders;
-Enable you to acquire an advanced ability to design research, conduct statistical analysis, and evaluate and scientifically report research in forensic psychology;
-Enhance your skills in communication, group work, professionalism and ICT so that you can perform at a high level of competence in these respects;
-Satisfy the academic requirements for Master’s-level knowledge, set out by the Division for Forensic Psychology, British Psychological Society.

On successful completion of the course, you will be able to demonstrate an advanced knowledge and critical understanding of the applied issues in forensic psychology.

You’ll also be able to apply a range of academic, intellectual and professional skills to forensic psychology, as well as being able to display significant insight into the application of forensic skills in the assessment and treatment of both offenders and victims.

Graduates of this course are expected to have developed strong academic, intellectual and professional skills, with the ability to work autonomously and in groups

Why Choose Us?

-Completion of this MSc course enables you to gain specialist knowledge of dealing with people within the Criminal Justice System, including sex offenders, offenders with personality disorders, victims of crime, the police and probation services.
-You’ll be provided with training in forensic methods primarily from a psychological standpoint, but you'll also be familiarised with the perspectives of a range of professions involved in the criminal justice system
-We have expert practitioners, such as Professor Michael Brookes OBE, who will support you throughout your study.
-We have expert academics, such as Dr Chrisa Pornari, who can supervise your research project in a wide range of areas, including investigative psychology, jury decision making, interpersonal violence, rape myths and offender cognition.
-With full or part-time options on offer, you can choose whether to study over one year or two.

How you learn

We use a range of learning, teaching, and assessment techniques on this programme.

Learning takes place in the University, through the University’s virtual learning environment which is an online based tool, giving you the flexibility to study conveniently both in the university and at home. You will study in lectures and workshops, through electronic learning, reflective practice, court visits, prison visits, case studies and discussion groups.

In order to allow you to fully demonstrate the acquisition of learning and skills throughout the course, a range of assessment strategies are used, both formative and summative. These include essays, report writing and structured literature reviews; data analysis reports; preparing and delivering presentations; reflective practice reports and examinations

There are 24 staff directed hours per module which needs to be combined with a least 130 hours of independent study.

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