Master of Science - Criminology with Forensic Psychology

This Criminology with Forensic Psychology MSc programme enables students to combine two complementary subject areas. The criminology elements will introduce them to the complex nature of crime, harm and victimisation, together with an appreciation of the role of criminal justice systems in relation to crime control, protection and the delivery of justice. In the forensic component of the programme students will study a range of investigative and legal processes, policing and geographical profiling.

This course is designed for those who have a social science, socio-legal or policy studies background and who want to develop their knowledge further. The course is open to those who have a good undergraduate degree in a relevant area, and, or, to those whose background is characterised by practitioner experience at an appropriate level in a relevant field.

Students will also explore the practice and boundaries of Behavioural Investigative Advice in the UK. The criminology course examines the social, economic and political contexts that give rise to crime and victimisation. They will explore and challenge formal responses to offending behaviour, including policing, punishment and rehabilitation, and wider strategies of social control. They will study the criminalisation process and engage critically with ‘what works' to reduce crime.

This course can lead to careers within various areas, working for both public and private organisations. This may include policy making; offender management; crime reduction and multi-agency partnership work; security and policing; criminological research; local and national government; and work for related advocacy and policy-based organisations. Recent graduates have gone on to work for Metropolitan Police Service, Avon & Somerset Police, HM Prison Service, Suzy Lamplugh Trust/National Stalking Helpline, Prison Advice Care Trust and private security.

Note: Those students who are interested in becoming a practising psychologist they should undertake the MSc in Forensic Psychology as this programme is BPS-accredited.