Forensic Psychology is a challenging subject. From anti-social behaviour and sexual violence to acts of terrorism, we’ll ask you to consider material relating to a range of different kinds of offenders and their offences.
For example, you’ve been provided with a case study of a violent offender. What assessment tools would you use to evaluate the case in light of the concept of psychopathy? Identify the interventions you’d recommend to treat this offender, and explain your recommendation.
You’ll need to have the maturity and sensitivity to tackle these kinds of topics during your degree. You’ll also consider the impact on victims and the kinds of support they may need to help them contribute as witnesses in the criminal justice system. While sometimes distressing, you’ll need to approach these topics with a thoughtful and professional mindset.
You’ll consider the real-world application of psychological knowledge in different contexts. You’ll find out what contributions a Forensic Psychologist can make as a member of a team working alongside the police, victim support organisations and others in the criminal justice setting. You’ll develop skills of collaboration and team-working – including exercises that model the ways evidence is collected, analysed and presented in the journey from crime scene to court. You’ll also learn how Forensic Psychologists collect, evaluate and present evidence, as well as assessing the needs of vulnerable individuals involved in the justice process.
Some of your assessments will simulate the tasks that Forensic Psychologists encounter, such as evaluating a case study, preparing a research report, building a portfolio, and making oral, audio or video presentations. You’ll communicate your findings in ways that are appropriate for the different audiences encountered by Forensic Psychologists at work – for instance in providing advice to uniformed or security services, or presenting an expert witness statement to a jury.
112 – 128 UCAS tariff points, BBC – ABB at A levels, DMM – DDM at BTEC, or a Merit in your T-Level.
If you are using a combination of qualifications to achieve the required UCAS tariff points, they must either include at least 2 A levels, a BTEC or an equivalent qualification.
If you are unsure whether we could make you an offer or you have any questions, just get in touch with our admissions team who will be able to advise you.
English Language or Literature and Maths Grade 4/C in GCSE (or equivalent) are normally required.
We welcome applications from mature students (aged 21 and over) and do not necessarily require the same academic qualifications as school leaving applicants, although some entry requirements may still apply for Professionally Accredited Courses. Also please note – some courses require several years of relevant work experience.
Please read the entry requirements for your country – and you’re welcome to contact our admissions team if you have questions.
Here's an example of the types of modules you'll study (it's unlikely but the contents and structure of the course could change).
Module information is not available for this programme.
| Start date | Location | UCAS code |
Fee (UK) per year |
Fee (international) per year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 2022 | Francis Close Hall, Cheltenham | C816 | £9,250 | £15,000 |
| Sep 2023 | Francis Close Hall, Cheltenham | C816 | TBC | TBC |
This course has been designed to ensure you complete the core curriculum requirements set by the British Psychological Society, which means you can progress to a wide range of psychology-related careers and further education after you graduate.
You’ll also have the opportunity to tailor your learning to your forensic interests so that you can start developing specialist knowledge and skills relevant to careers in forensic psychology. In your final year you’ll choose from a range of module options which give you further opportunities to focus on particular themes that relate to your career interests.
Many graduates from this course will choose to continue their studies with a postgraduate degree in order to become a registered Forensic Psychologist. This usually means taking a BPS-accredited MSc in Forensic Psychology, such as the course we offer at the University of Gloucestershire, followed by supervised practice in order to qualify for Chartered Psychologist status.
This isn’t a psychology degree with just a couple of forensic modules – forensic content is core to many of your modules, classes and assessments.
Once you’ve graduated from this course, the next step in your training to become a professional Forensic Psychologist is to take a BPS-accredited master’s degree – we’ve been delivering the MSc Forensic Psychology for over a decade.
Our MSc Forensic Psychology provides the ideal progression pathway to become Forensic Psychologist – then after a further period of supervised practice, you’ll be eligible for the status of Chartered Psychologist.
Delivering the best possible learning experience through cutting-edge technology and strong practical elements. You’ll work closely with expert lecturers and other students in the seminar room, the laboratory and the field.
The University has a strong ethos in building your working skills together with your academic skills and strongly encourage students to undertake volunteering/internship options. The University will provide you with support in finding opportunities that best fit your interests.
