Master of Science - Psychology of Forensic and Criminal Behaviour

On this exciting programme, students will be introduced to forensic psychology and criminal behaviour, and gain a detailed understanding of the application of clinical skills, such as forensic psychological assessment, consultancy provision, practical interventions and evaluation in forensic settings.

The programme will encourage students to scrutinise theoretical models of criminal behaviour. Students will develop an understanding of why people offend, including the onset, development and maintenance of offending behaviours, while also considering the links between theoretical approaches and practical applications to forensic work.

Students will learn about a range of therapeutic interventions while acknowledging the challenges that are inherent to working with a forensic population. Students will explore the complex relationship between mental disorders and criminal behaviour and gain an understanding of the criminal justice system in England and Wales and its various agencies, including law enforcement, the courts, the penal system and crime prevention agencies. Students will discuss the role of psychology within the criminal justice system, and be introduced to different aspects of investigative psychology, such as interviewing, eyewitness memory, jury decision-making and offender profiling.

Students will examine the latest research, study real-life case studies, learn to carry out assessment interviews and evaluate available evidence. Students will also develop transferrable professional skills including specialist report writing and communicating their findings and expertise to a wider audience. To further their professional development, students will learn about ethical considerations in research projects, data collection and data analysis.

Taught by leading experts in the field, students will be encouraged to critically evaluate research and apply their theoretical understandings to practical workshops, developing their assessment and consultancy skills.

Students will also complete their own masters research project, using the knowledge and skills they have learned on the programme in their own small-scale research project.