Master of Science - Forensic Psychology

The MSc Forensic Psychology programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), accounting for Stage 1 of the qualification for students who already hold Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the BPS. The course offers a balanced combination of academic study, research, and practical experience. Teaching is delivered by a team of forensic practitioners and academics with extensive experience working with offenders and victims across a wide range of forensic contexts.

Students benefit from a supportive and dynamic research environment that enables the exploration of individual professional interests while gaining vital practical insights, including potential opportunities for real-life experience within related fields. The qualification broadens professional options and is valuable for careers in settings such as prisons, secure units, hospitals, mental health services, police and probation services, courts, community organisations, charities, and social enterprises. It also provides a strong foundation for progression to PhD research. Overall, the programme equips psychology graduates with the academic knowledge and applied skills required to undertake professional practice and research within forensic contexts.

During the course, students are encouraged to complete a minimum of 30 hours of volunteering to gain real-life experience in related fields and develop practical insights into forensic psychology.

The culmination of the programme is a major research project that allows students to tailor their learning to specific areas of professional interest and career aspirations. Through this project, students develop advanced skills in data collection and analysis relevant to forensic psychology, alongside the application of a range of specialist research techniques and methodologies consistent with postgraduate-level study.

On successful completion of the course, graduates may pursue further professional training to become Forensic Psychologists or progress into related careers across areas such as prison and probation services, crime analysis, and education.

Teaching on the MSc Forensic Psychology is delivered primarily through lectures, interactive workshops and discussions, small-group teaching, and individual supervision. The programme also offers a range of educational visits and field trips, alongside guest lectures from leading professionals in forensic psychology.

Assessment methods are varied and may include essays, group and individual presentations, research project reports, and a reflective practice portfolio.