Masters Degrees (Forensic Sciences)

The PgDip/MSc Forensic Science concentrates on practices, procedures and analytical techniques used within forensic science, and how they are applied in support of the investigation of crime and the criminal justice system as a whole.

Course details

This course is accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences.On completing this course you will be able to demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of forensic science and how scientific methods are applied to the investigation of crime. You benefit from our links with practitioners and other professional organisations relevant to the field of forensic science. Key members of staff are former forensic scientists or crime scene scientists with considerable operational experience.Expect to carry out analytical and practical work in the University’s on-campus forensic facilities including specialist analytical laboratories, crime scene house laboratory and forensic chemistry and biology laboratories. Watch a short video and hear what Matthew Grima, a former student, says about this course.

Professional accreditation

The Forensic Science Society This course has been accredited and commended by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences - the international professional body for forensic science.

What you study

For the PgDip award you must successfully complete 120 credits of taught modules. For an MSc award you must successfully complete the 120 credits of taught modules and a 60-credit master's research project.

PgDip and MSc core modules
-Advanced Analytical Techniques
-Forensic Biology
-Forensic Chemistry
-Forensic Investigative Strategy
-Legal Issues and Evidence Reporting
-Research Methods and Proposal

MSc only
-Research Project

Modules offered may vary.

Teaching

The course provides a number of contact teaching and assessment hours (through lectures, tutorials, projects, assignments and laboratory work).

You are also expected to spend time on your own (this is called self-study time), to review lecture notes, prepare course work assignments, work on projects and revise for assessments.

As an example, each 20-credit module typically has around 200 hours of learning time.

On this programme you complete a project related to professional practice. This, along with the involvement of practitioners and academics in the delivery of these courses, ensures that they are relevant to the requirements of the criminal justice system.

Modules are assessed by in-course assignments, including a courtroom-based expert witness assessment and end exams.

Career opportunities

Employment opportunities exist in the field of forensic science and forensic investigation with forensic science providers and law enforcement agencies. Other roles include scientific investigation where the application of science in a legal or regulatory context is important.

This MSc programme has been accredited and commended by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, the international professional body for forensic science.

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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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This programme is for graduates with a strong grounding in forensic science who wish to advance their knowledge of the field.

It prepares you for a professional role in forensic science within the criminal or civil judicial system, police or forensic practice, or research. You develop command, control and management skills that will enable you to present expert evidential incident reports to the highest standard at court.

You also develop your knowledge and understanding of advanced laboratory analytical methods applied to forensic investigation. This enables you to select the most appropriate analytical techniques for forensic investigation and to use a wide range of advanced analytic apparatus to evidential standards.

This programme helps you to develop an integrated and critical understanding of forensic science to prepare you to undertake a PhD in any associated discipline.

Visit the website https://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/5/forensic-science

About The School of Physical Sciences

The School offers postgraduate students the opportunity to participate in groundbreaking science in the realms of physics, chemistry, forensics and astronomy. With strong international reputations, our staff provide plausible ideas, well-designed projects, research training and enthusiasm within a stimulating environment. Recent investment in modern laboratory equipment and computational facilities accelerates the research.

The School maintains a focus on progress to ensure each student is able to compete with their peers in their chosen field. We carefully nurture the skills, abilities and motivation of our students which are vital elements in our research activity. We offer higher degree programmes in chemistry and physics (including specialisations in forensics, astronomy and space science) by research. We also offer taught programmes in Forensic Science, studied over one year full-time, and a two-year European-style Master’s in Physics.

Our principal research covers a wide variety of topics within physics, astronomy and chemistry, ranging from specifically theoretical work on surfaces and interfaces, through mainstream experimental condensed matter physics, astrobiology, space science and astrophysics, to applied areas such as biomedical imaging, forensic imaging and space vehicle protection. We scored highly in the most recent Research Assessment Exercise, with 25% of our research ranked as “world-leading” and our Functional Materials Research Group ranked 2nd nationally in the Metallurgy and Materials discipline.

Modules

The following modules 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. Most programmes will require you to study a combination of compulsory and optional modules. You may also have the option to take modules from other programmes so that you may customise your programme and explore other subject areas that interest you.

PS601 - Fires and Explosions (15 credits)
PS637 - DNA Analysis & Interpretation (15 credits)
PS700 - Physical Science Research Planning (15 credits)
PS702 - Contemporary and Advanced Issues in Forensic Science (15 credits)
PS704 - Major Incident Management (15 credits)
PS713 - Substances of Abuse (15 credits)
PS720 - Advanced Forensic Project Laboratory (30 credits)
PS780 - MSC Research Project (60 credits)

Assessment

Assessment is by examination and coursework.

Programme aims

This programme aims to:

- develop your integrated and critically aware understanding of forensic science and to prepare you to undertake a PhD in any associated disciplines

- prepare you for a professional role in forensic science within the criminal or civil judicial system, police, or forensic practice or research

- develop your command, control, and management skills in relation to major incidents, and to prepare and present expert evidential incident reports at court to the highest standard

- develop a clear recognition of the constraints and opportunities of the environment in which professional forensic science is carried out

- develop a variety of Masters’ level intellectual and transferable skills

- equip you with the learning skills to keep abreast of developments in the continually evolving field of forensic science and forensic investigation

- enable you to realise your academic potential.

Careers

All programmes in the School of Physical Sciences equip you with the tools you need to conduct research, solve problems, communicate effectively and transfer skills to the workplace, which means our graduates are always in high demand. Our links with industry not only provide you with the opportunity to gain work experience during your degree, but also equip you with the general and specialist skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the workplace.

Typical employment destinations for graduates from the physics programmes include power companies, aerospace, defence, optoelectronics and medical industries. Typical employment destinations for graduates from our forensic science and chemistry programmes include government agencies, consultancies, emergency services, laboratories, research or academia.

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

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There is a national and international need for professionals who can apply a critical and scientific approach to their forensic practice, and who want to have a broad understanding of the various interrelated disciplines of forensic medicine and science. This programme answers that need and provides theoretical and practical knowledge of the forensic medical sciences, and will train you to critically evaluate and interpret forensic medical and scientific evidence.

The unprecedented programme will cover a wide range specialist topics under the umbrella of the forensic medical sciences, coupled with the opportunity to carry out research in a specialist area.

We also offer you the opportunity to further your career prospects within your own professional specialty. This programme should be regarded as an intermediate level for pathologists and forensic medical examiners who will be expected to progress to specialist exit level exams, through their respective academic colleges.

Programme outline
Core modules:

Clinical Aspects of Forensic Medicine (two modules)
Forensic Pathology (two modules)
Module Options:

Legal and Ethical Issues Relevant to Forensic Medicine and Science
Forensic Toxicology I and II
Forensic Identification I and II.
Research project

Laboratory-based or a critical dissertation (four modules)

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MSc Forensic Science is designed for both graduate students and forensic practitioners. It will develop theoretical knowledge and practical application of the key aspects of forensic science. On this course you will initially cover the fundamentals of forensic biology and forensic chemistry that underpin much of the laboratory analysis associated with forensic investigations. Following on from this, the recovery and processing of a variety of evidence types found at crime scenes will be studied in detail as will the evaluation and presentation of that evidence in a legal context. You will have access to extensive modern facilities with state-of-art facilities, including our crime scene houses, forensic, chemistry and biology laboratories. After completing six taught modules students will undertake a three module research project which will develop research skills – a diverse range of projects are available, both within the University and through external placements.

LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND ASSESSMENT

UCLan’s School of Forensic and Applied Sciences is the first specialist School of its kind in Europe, benefiting from purpose-built facilities and £29 million of investment. Our facilities have recently been enhanced by the opening of our new £12.5-million J B Firth building to support our capability in chemistry and fire safety and engineering. In addition, our state-of-the-art resources include three crime scene houses, a vehicle examination area, a blood spatter pattern analysis suite, dedicated laboratories for the search and recovery of evidential materials, forensic anthropology, forensic biology and genetics and forensic entomology, together with a moot court room.

This course is assessed through preparation of case notes, essays, reports, practical reports, group and individual presentations and written and practical exams.

OPPORTUNITIES

Placements are possible with forensic providers, both in the UK and overseas on an ad-hoc basis. Placements are also possible in other relevant institutions, such and biology or chemistry laboratories.

Our courses are taught by internationally-acclaimed academics and former senior practitioners.

Will Goodwin, Sibte Hadi, Matt Baker, Judith Smith, Isobel Colclough, Allan Scott, Charlie Ellis, Geoff Keeling, Kev Pritchard

[[LEARNING OUTCOMES[[
-To provide an in-depth study of Forensic Science
-To develop the critical and analytical skills involving the principles, practices and techniques of Forensic Science
-To develop competence in research methods and presentation of information
-To develop skills in solving problems both independently and as a team member to a level commensurate to the master’s level

FURTHER INFORMATION

On this course you will initially cover the fundamentals of Forensic Biology and Forensic Chemistry that underpin much of the laboratory analysis associated with forensic investigations. Following on from this, the recovery and processing of a variety of evidence types found at crime scenes will be studied in detail as will the evaluation and presentation of that evidence in a legal context. The final 16 weeks of the course will involve undertaking a research project.

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This course provides postgraduate education in Forensic and Analytical Sciences. Forensic Science involves the use of scientific techniques and principles to address questions of interest to a court of law. This course provides you with an overview of forensic science in general, following the crime scene to court model. This includes a series of crime scene exercises in our crime scene facilities, covering strategies for crime scene examination and an exploration of techniques associated with crime scene examination. You will also receive a comprehensive overview of most of the forensic science disciplines through the forensic biology and forensic chemistry module. You will also explore quality, which is an increasingly fundamental issue within forensic science industry; as well as the presentation of evidence and preparations for defending your evidence in a court of law.

In addition, you will then study modules underpinning the analytical sciences, which is a major source of employment for scientists, reflected in our high graduate employment rate. These modules will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the most recent technological developments and applications in Analytical Sciences. Instrumental techniques used in the analysis of organic compounds, metals, solids, etc. are all covered. Possible sources of error in experimental and instrumental analysis are discussed, thus allowing the correct interpretation of experimentally-derived scientific data. This course is comprised of two thirds taught component and one third research project component.

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This MSc programme is designed to provide students with an in-depth working knowledge of the principles and practice of forensic toxicology. The major strength of this programme is that students study within an operational ISO 17025 accredited forensic toxicology laboratory and are taught by practising forensic toxicologists. This programme will be of particular interest to those interested in pursuing or furthering careers in forensic toxicology as court-reporting scientists, laboratory scientists or academics. This programme also enables graduates to gain experience in research before applying to a doctoral programme.

Why this programme

◾We are the longest established forensic toxicology MSc in the UK, and the only programme in the UK delivered by practising forensic toxicologists in an operational ISO 17025 accredited laboratory.
◾Our staff are regularly called to court to give evidence as expert witnesses. You will have the opportunity to visit a Scottish court in session and develop skills as an expert witness though lectures and practical sessions, including a moot court exercise.
◾Students can learn first-hand within a unit with one of the largest forensic toxicology laboratories. No other Universities offering a taught Forensic Toxicology degree have an associated laboratory.
◾Research and teaching laboratories are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment rivalling many forensic toxicology service laboratories in the UK.
◾The laboratories are accredited to ISO/IEC17025 standard with UKAS. They are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and you will have access to a variety of instruments including GC/MS, GC-HS, HPLC, LC/MS and AAS.
◾Direct link with our doctoral research programme.
◾Students are introduced to ISO17025 accreditation and Quality Management Systems.
◾Students will have the opportunity to attend lectures for the Diploma in Forensic Medical Sciences and the Scottish Medico-Legal Society. This grants you exposure to experts from a wide range of forensic and legal disciplines including scientists, lawyers and procurators fiscal.

Programme structure

Courses
◾Principles of forensic toxicology
◾Laboratory techniques in forensic toxicology
◾Advanced instrumentation
◾Case review and interpretation
◾Research and laboratory management
◾Project.

Career prospects

This programme will prepare you for a post in a forensic toxicology laboratory both in the UK and overseas. Many of our graduates find or return to forensic work or undertake a PhD.

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Forensic science is a dynamic discipline that is crucial to the investigation of crime, the collection of evidence and intelligence, and in securing justice. This multidisciplinary MSc programme offers students a unique opportunity to gain forensic science skills and methods within a holistic crime science framework.

Degree information

Students will develop an understanding of the fundamental principles of crime and forensic science, together with the key conceptual and philosophical frameworks in this field. They will gain practical skills in crime scene investigation, experimental design and implementation, statistical analysis, data analysis and modelling, and will be able to evaluate the weight and applicability of forensic evidence for investigative and court purposes.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits. The programme consists of five core modules (75 credits), three optional modules (45 credits) and a research dissertation (60 credits). An exit-only Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits) is offered.

Core modules
-Quantitative Methods
-Designing and Doing Research
-Understanding and Interpreting Forensic Evidence
-Foundations of Security and Crime Science
-Judicial Decision Making and Expert Evidence

Optional modules - students choose three of the following optional modules:
-Case Assessment and Interpretation for Forensic Scientists
-Fundamentals of Molecular Biology
-Information Security Management
-Forensic Archaeology
-Forensic Osteology
-Forensic Geoscience
-Frontiers in Experimental Physical Chemistry
-Judgment and Decision Making
-Practices of Crime Scene Investigation and Expert Testimony
-Structural Methods in Modern Chemistry

Dissertation/report
All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 10,000 words.

Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through lectures, seminars, tutorials, practical exercises and statistical and computer classes. Assessment is through coursework, examination and the dissertation.

Careers

Graduates of this programme will gain the skills necessary for a career in crime investigation, forensic science provision, consultancy, policymaking, and with public sector employers such as police forces, Home Office, and Ministry of Defence. They will also have gained the research tools necessary for a PhD or further doctoral research.

Employability
Graduates from this programme gain a solid understanding of the key principles of crime and forensic science, along with the ability to analyse problems and use appropriate scientific and professional skills to solve them. They can evaluate forensic evidence and their CSI training (developed and delivered with input from London-based police forces) gives them the edge over other applicants for crime scene investigation roles, if this is what they decide to do. They have the opportunity to learn specialist techniques in areas such as forensic archaeology and forensic geoscience, and are given a thorough grounding in academic research methods.

Each year we ask our graduates to tell us about their experience of the programme and their career after leaving UCL and we include some real-life graduate profiles on our website: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/scs/degree-programmes/postgraduate/graduate-profiles

Why study this degree at UCL?

This MSc will train graduates to think strategically and critically about crime and forensic science, equipping them with transferable skills suitable for a wide range of careers.

The UCL Jill Dando Institute of Security and Crime Science (JDI) brings together academics from across the physical sciences, social sciences and humanities. Our graduate students come from varied backgrounds; many are practitioners and are encouraged to share their professional experience.

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Course Overview

This course is approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and, upon completion, provides students with eligibility to apply to the register to practice as Forensic Psychologists in the UK.

The course is designed to be placement based, with various workshops for students as well as clinical and academic supervision. Workshops are usually delivered in block teaching sessions and students are expected to be in Cardiff for around 15 days over the course of their study. We have students from all over the UK so we aim to make access to workshops as straightforward as possible for those students who have to travel long distances to attend.

Each student will be allocated both a clinical supervisor and an academic supervisor – at least one of these supervisors will be an appropriately qualified and experienced Forensic Psychologist. Students should consider the availability of a forensic psychologist who is willing and able to offer supervision in their workplace or placement site for the duration of their studies.

Next intake April 2016 - applications open 1st December 2015 to 29th January 2016

See the website https://www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/health/courses/Pages/Forensic-Psychology-(Practitioner-Programme)---PgD-.aspx

Course Content​​

There are 5 modules to the programme:
- Professional Portfolio in Forensic Psychology (80 credits, Level 8)
This is the largest assessed piece of work and it provides credits towards a Professional Doctorate qualification that students may wish to undertake following this programme or at a later stage in their career. The portfolio is a collection of exemplars of work students have undertaken to demonstrate competence in the application of forensic psychology to assessment and intervention work with service users. It will include exemplars of clinical practice (assessments, interventions, evaluation and recommendations) reflective evaluations, practice logs (detailing a minimum of 360 days of professional practice), supervision logs and a variety of placement checklists.

- Consultancy (10 credits, level 8)
This module explores the experience students have in demonstrating the application of psychology in the context of consultancy, developing policy and evaluating service provision.

- Teaching and Training (10 credits, level 8)
This module explores the experience students have in demonstrating the application of psychology in the context of teaching and training.

- Ethical and Professional Practice (10 credits, level 8)
This module explores the experience students have in demonstrating the application of psychology within the appropriate ethical and professional boundaries that are required by the Regulatory Body (Health and Care Professions Council, HCPC), by appropriate professional bodies (British Psychological Society, BPS) and by the relevant placement organisations.

- Functional Assessment and Formulation (10 credits, level 8)
This module explores the experience students have in demonstrating the application of psychology in applying psychological models of assessment, particularly functional assessment and case formulation.

Learning & Teaching​

​Our students are placement based and the programme follows an apprenticeship model, where students work under the supervision of a qualified forensic psychologist and aim to demonstrate their developing competency in the areas identified as relevant to the role (HCPC Standards of Proficiency). So, the primary mode of learning on this programme will be through supervised practice.

To support the learning of students we also offer workshops. Some of the workshops are compulsory and mean that students need to attend Cardiff for around 15 days over the course of their study with us.

We make no apology when stating that this course is challenging and will require a great deal of investment from students in order to complete it. Our students on placement (not employed by placement provider) we expect to be in placement 4 days a week and spend an additional day in study. It is very much a full time programme of study and whilst there are part time options, the commitment is something we urge applicants to consider.

Students are provided with a supervisory team which is comprised of a work placement supervisor (we refer to this supervisor as the clinical supervisor) and a supervisor from the University (we refer to this supervisor as an academic supervisor). Both of these supervisors will be forensic psychologists, except in exceptional circumstances where the course leader has approved a different arrangement. Both supervisors will provide support to the student and will encourage their development and provide pastoral support. Additional support is provided through the Peer Mentors, other students who are a step further along the process.

Assessment

Students are assessed for competency and professionalism, these issues are reviewed in tri-partite supervision sessions every quarter for full time students. In addition to this there are 5 modules that students will complete. The largest of these is the Portfolio where students will gather exemplars of their work with forensic psychology service users following the processes of assessment, intervention, evaluation and recommendation. Additionally, students will complete four reflective report modules on aspects of their practice; Functional Assessment and Formulation, Ethical and Professional Practice, Teaching and Training and Consultancy.

Employability & Careers​

The purpose of the PG Dip in Practitioner Forensic Psychology is to allow students to progress on from Masters level study towards Practitioner status, thereby boosting their employability. At the end of the programme successful students can apply to the HCPC to be registered as Forensic Psychologists. This course is essentially for students who wish to progress on to clinical work within forensic settings or more widely with forensic clients. The programme is placement based and provides supervised support towards developing the competencies required to be an autonomous practitioner.

100% of the graduates from this programme are employed as Forensic Psychologists and so working in professional roles within a variety of organisations in the UK. Some of our graduates may consider returning to complete the Doctorate in Forensic Psychology (Top-Up) once they have decided which area they would like to specialise in.

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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This British Psychological Society accredited Forensic Psychology Masters is designed to prepare psychology graduates with the academic knowledge and practical skills necessary to conduct practical work and research within a forensic context.

Why choose this course?

It is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS). This means that by obtaining the MSc in Forensic Psychology you will also be completing the first stage in your professional training required by the BPS to become a qualified practitioner within the field of forensic psychology (Chartered Forensic Psychologist).

The focus on blending research and practical expertise is reflected in the Programme Team, which consists of forensic practitioners or academics who each have considerable experience working with offenders and victims in a range of forensic contexts in the UK.

Modules may include

Explanations of Crime, Criminal Behaviour and Victimology
Police, Justice System and Psychology
Prisons, Rehabilitation and Aftercare
Assessment, Formulation and Treatment of Offenders and Victims
Professional Forensic Practice and Reflective Practice Group
Qualitative Research Design and Analysis (One)
Mixed Methods
Advanced Experimentation and Statistics (One and Two)
Forensic Research Project

For more information about the modules that you may study on this course visit http://www.ntu.ac.uk/forensicpsychology

Facilities

The University has made significant financial investment in the Psychology Division over recent years upgrading accommodation, facilities and equipment used exclusively for the provision of our psychology courses and for research. We have a first class undergraduate teaching laboratory suite and a second teaching laboratory specifically catering for postgraduate students.

In addition there are specialist suites dedicated to particular areas of interest in psychology, including:

social interaction, group work and interviewing
computer gaming and cyberpsychology
eye-tracking
cognitive modelling and visual analysis
psychophysiology.

Alongside these are new flexible cubicles for student project work, a psychometric test bank library, and a technical workshop.

Delivery and assessment

NTU's Psychology Division is one of the largest in the UK, with a group of academics and practitioners who conduct and supervise research in a range of applied Forensic areas. The course is supported by a team of approachable staff, and delivered through taught modules; small group reflective practice sessions; and supervised individual research work.

Assessments will be diverse in format and will include:

examinations
essays
oral presentations
practical reports
consultancy report
a research project.

Careers

Students generally choose the MSc Forensic Psychology because they wish to qualify as a BPS Chartered and Health and Care Professions Council Registered forensic psychologist and to pursue a career in forensic psychology. Others may choose to use their qualification as a stepping stone toward doctoral training in clinical psychology, to work in criminal justice and mental health settings, e.g. police, prison, probation services, the NHS, and so on.

It is also possible to pursue an academic and/or research career in psychology following graduation (for example by working as a research assistant or associate, or by studying for a PhD). Indeed, your qualification in forensic psychology is likely to be popular with a whole range of potential employers because, in addition to possessing in-depth theoretical knowledge of forensic psychology, you will also have demonstrated an ability to write essays and reports and to present in front of other people (amongst other transferable skills).

Scholarships

The School of Social Sciences offers a number of competitive scholarships for our full-time and part-time Masters courses. For more information please visit http://www.ntu.ac.uk/s3scholarships

Why not come along to one of our postgraduate open events to find out more and see our facilities? For further details please visit: http://www.ntu.ac.uk/s3events

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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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This course provides postgraduate education in Forensic Entomology. Forensic Entomology involves the use of entomological evidence to address questions of interest to a court of law; most famously, the question of the time-since-death or post mortem interval estimation. This course provides you with an overview of forensic science in general, following the crime scene to court model. This includes a series of crime scene exercises in our crime scene facilities, covering strategies for crime scene examination and an exploration of techniques associated with crime scene examination. You will also receive a comprehensive overview of a variety of forensic science disciplines through the forensic biology and forensic chemistry modules. You will also explore quality, which is an increasingly fundamental issue within forensic science industry; as well as the presentation of evidence and preparations for defending your evidence in a court of law.

In addition, you will then study subject specific modules underpinning the principles relating to forensic entomology. These modules will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the most recent technological developments and applications in forensic entomology. This course is comprised of two thirds taught component and one third research project component.

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This one-year degree is designed for students who already hold a first degree (BA or BSc) in Forensic Anthropology or a related subject, and is intended to provide advanced training in subject areas which are germane to current professional requirements, but which are not available collectively at any other institution in the world.

Why study Anatomy & Advanced Forensic Anthropology at Dundee?

Forensic anthropology is the analysis of human remains for the medico-legal purpose of establishing identity. The discipline has adopted a pivotal role in UK and International investigations in cases of inter-personal violence and homicide, repatriation, mass disasters and war crimes.

Recent mass fatality incidents have highlighted the requirement for national and international disaster victim identification (DVI) capability, and cemented the forensic anthropologist’s role as a significant component within the multi-disciplinary response facility.

Traditionally the forensic anthropologist has dealt with human skeletal remains resulting from unexplained deaths; this professional definition is unrealistically restrictive given the multi-disciplinary nature of the demands of human identification in the twenty-first century. In particular there is a significant requirement for anatomically-trained forensic anthropologists who are competent in dealing with both soft and hard tissues in order to fulfil the requirements of DVI deployment.

Centre for Anatomy and Human Identification

This course is taught within the Centre for Anatomy and Human Identfication (CAHID) and is located in the Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Dundee, Scotland.

Prof Sue Black heads the Centre, she was awarded an OBE for her International Human Identification work from mass graves and co-authored Developmental Juvenile Osteology and The Juvenile Skeleton.

The award-winning staff of this Centre are amongst the most experienced in the UK in the fields of human identification, forensic anthropology, craniofacial identification and the study of the human body.

The core remit of the Centre is the study of anatomy. The Centre delivers high quality anatomy teaching at all levels, via whole body dissection which allows students to develop a sound knowledge of the human body. The Centre relies on the generosity of donors for the ability to teach students to the highest standard possible.

The Centre was awarded a prestigious Queen's Anniversary Prize for Higher Education in November 2013. Presented in recognition of 'world class excellence', the Queen’s Anniversary Prizes are among the

Aims of the Programme

The aim of this programme is to provide training in anatomically-based forensic anthropology, and specifically to provide advanced training in musculoskeletal anatomy, juvenile osteology, comparative forensic osteology and DVI training.

What you will study

Course Structure:
This is a one year full time taught Masters programme in which all modules are compulsory. The research dissertation can be in the form of original laboratory research in an area pertinent to anatomy and forensic anthropology.

Human Gross Anatomy (Semesters 1 & 2):
Provides the opportunity to conduct whole body dissection, with particular emphasis on functional and musculoskeletal anatomy
Exposure to human form and function with direct relevance to the identification process
Only institution in the UK offering the opportunity to dissect cadavers which have been embalmed using the Thiel soft-fix method, which provides life-like preservation of the soft tissues.

Developmental Juvenile Osteology (Semester 1):
Focuses on the development of the human juvenile skeleton as a means to understanding adult skeletal form
Through practical examination, each bone of the body will be studied from its embryological origin, through key developmental milestones, until the attainment of its adult form
Practical sessions will focus on the unique Scheuer collection of juvenile skeletal remains.
Forensic Anthropology as Expert Evidence

Covering the more specialised skills including forensic anatomy, trauma analysis and age estimation in the living this module will cover the skills required to present your analyses in a court of law.

Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) training (Semesters 1 & 2):
Provides a thorough understanding of the DVI process in the UK and abroad
Developed by experienced practitioners, it is based on the National DVI Training course for the UK DVI team
Delivers a robust theoretical underpinning for anyone undertaking DVI work on a practical basis.

MSc Research Project (Semester 3):
Students will undertake an advanced level practical project supervised by a research-active practitioner
CAHID staff have significant experience in many areas of forensic human identification, including juvenile osteology, facial anthropology, facial reconstruction, age assessment in the living and dead, analysis of sexual dimorphism and ancestry, soft tissue biometric systems, human provenance, skeletal pathology and trauma, and virtual anthropology

How you will be assessed

A variety of assessment methods will be employed including practical spot exams, online assessment and traditional essay based examination.

Careers

There is a significant requirement for anatomically-trained forensic anthropologists who are competent in dealing with both soft and hard tissues in order to fulfill the requirements of DVI deployment. This degree will train individuals to be competent in specialist areas of anatomy and forensic anthropology.

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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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This master's degree is aimed at students who are currently employed in / or who desire to be employed in a forensic mental health setting. The course is designed to equip graduates with an extensive knowledge of theoretical and practical issues in forensic mental health and a critical awareness of the current philosophical, theoretical and methodological problems, debates and insights that shape the discipline.

Why choose this course?

This course is designed to give graduates an in-depth knowledge of forensic mental health. You will gain a critical understanding of the academic knowledge associated with the context of practice in forensic mental health and you will gain a critical appreciation of ethical, cultural, and legal issues arising from mental health practice and research.

This master's degree is aimed at students who are currently employed in / or who desire to be employed in a forensic, forensic mental health, or mental health setting, for example:

- prisons
- secure hospitals
- Ministry of Justice
- Police Force
- courts.

Modules

Modules may include:
Prison, Rehabilitation and Aftercare
Clinical Research Methods
Theory and Application to Mental Health
Contemporary Issues in Mental Health
Explanations of Crime, Criminal Behaviour and Victimology
Forensic Mental Health
Research and Professional Skills
Specialist Psychology Essay
Research Project / Dissertation

For more information about the modules you may study on this course visit http://www.ntu.ac.uk/forensicmentalhealth

Facilities

The University has made significant financial investment in the Psychology Division over recent years upgrading accommodation, facilities and equipment used exclusively for the provision of our psychology courses and for research. We have a dedicated undergraduate teaching laboratory suite and a second teaching laboratory specifically catering for postgraduate students.

In addition there are specialist suites dedicated to particular areas of interest in psychology, including:

social interaction, group work and interviewing
computer gaming and cyberpsychology
eye-tracking
cognitive modelling and visual analysis
psychophysiology.

Alongside these are new flexible cubicles for student project work, a psychometric test bank library, and a technical workshop.

Delivery and assessment

The course is delivered through lectures, interactive workshops, small-group teaching and learning and one-on-one supervision by forensic practitioners and academic staff with considerable experience of working within a variety of forensic contexts in the UK.

This taught programme is supported by a team of approachable staff and will be delivered through lectures, workshops and small reflective practice groups. All staff teaching on the course are research-active in their field of interest and students will have access to the extensive facilities within the Division of Psychology and the University's Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). For individuals who do not wish to complete the MSc, a postgraduate certificate in Forensic Mental Health will be offered.

International students in psychology can also access additional language and study skills support, as well as help in acclimatising, via our own International Student Support Officer.

You will be assessed in a variety of ways and on a modular basis through:

coursework
essays
literature reviews
oral presentations
professional reports.

Career opportunities

When you graduate with an MSc Forensic Mental Health you will have the necessary skills to pursue professional careers in a range of mental health, forensic mental health or forensic settings. You may choose to study this course if you already work in this area and you hope to improve your prospects of promotion and career progression.

You may also want to pursue an academic and / or research career in a number of academic disciplines following graduation (by working as a research assistant or associate, for example, or by studying for a PhD). Psychology graduates with BPS GBR status may also be interested in this course if they are considering doctoral study towards a career as a clinical or counselling psychologist.

Scholarships

The School of Social Sciences offers a number of competitive scholarships for our full-time and part-time Masters courses. For more information please visit http://www.ntu.ac.uk/s3scholarships

Want to find out more? Come along to one of our postgraduate Open Evenings. For further details please visit: http://www.ntu.ac.uk/s3events

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