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Postgraduate taught

Forensic Psychology MSc

What is Forensic Psychology MSc?

Accredited by the British Psychological Society, on this course you’ll develop the expertise for a successful career in forensic psychology.

You’ll underpin your practice with both a sound appreciation of academic research evidence, and an understanding of the Forensic Psychologist’s role in investigative and legal processes, as well as the assessment and treatment of offenders.

The Forensic Team have a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the subject area. You’ll have access to the current and timely research that staff members are involved in, and which makes a difference in those applied forensic contexts.

Study style

You’ll learn through a mixture of lectures and seminars, personal and professional reflection, and the opportunity of field visits. Your studies will be assessed by a range of coursework – practice reports, case formulations, presentations and portfolios.

As you develop your understanding, you’ll learn how to engage in the reflective practice that will be essential to maintaining professional competence and integrity. You’ll explore the ethical, legal, professional and personal dilemmas that can arise in professional practice within forensic settings.

Get Forensic Psychology MSc course updates and hear more about studying with us.

Entry requirements

    • At least a 2.2 honours degree in Psychology with Graduate Basis Chartered membership of BPS

    • Eligible for Graduate Basis Chartered membership of BPS. If you do not yet have eligibility, it can be obtained by completing the conversion course MSc Psychology.

       

    • Applicants for this course may be required to undertake an interview.

    • You must possess a strong academic reference

    • EU and international students need IELTS 6.0 overall (no less than 5.5 in writing and in any other band) or equivalent.

    • You will be expected to undertake some relevant experience before starting the course – for instance in a volunteer capacity or shadowing a professional in a forensic-related position. Advice on suitable options is available on request.

Course modules

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Fees and costs

See the further details of fees and potential extra costs when studying a course at the University of Gloucestershire.
Start date Location Course code Total Fee (UK) Total Fee (international)
Sep 2023 Francis Close Hall, Cheltenham £9,000 £15,900
Sep 2024 Francis Close Hall, Cheltenham TBC TBC

Ready to apply?

Possible careers

Graduates from this course can go on to work in:

  • Assistant Psychologist posts
  • National and international police services
  • Crime analysis
  • Fraud investigation
  • Prison and probation services
  • Youth teams
  • Secure units and special hospitals
  • The wider security and investigative services – eg Dstl, MoD, IPCC, the Home Office.

You could also choose to move into further academic study and research – potentially a PhD and/or working as a Research Assistant.

Industry links

In line with our applied focus, assignments are designed to model aspects of a professional forensic Psychologist’s workload. The course is accredited by the British Psychological Society, covering the core areas demanded of Stage 1 registration.

The programme has a distinctive and strongly applied focus on real-world practice – and centres around core areas of expertise.

One particular focus is on issues surrounding the commission, detection and prosecution of sexual offences, and the management of offenders. Another focus is on how the forensic practitioner obtains best information and evidence via investigative interviewing, the detection of deception, and special procedures to assist vulnerable witnesses.

Gather specialist information

You’ll develop specialist knowledge of the investigative processes and procedures which are used to enhance the gathering of information, intelligence and evidence.

Study sexual offence and offenders issues

Develop specialist knowledge around the perpetration, investigation and prosecution of sexual offences, as well as the task of the forensic psychologist in assessing and formulating interventions.

Access specialist facilities and tech

Make use of our forensic interviewing suite, kit for recording stress biomarkers, as well as cutting edge technology that includes EEG and Virtual Reality equipment. There’s also the opportunity to explore scenarios in our Crime Scene House.

Endless possibilities with a master’s degree

Increase your pay potential, specialise in the subject you love, or pursue your passion and switch careers.

UoG students can benefit from an alumni discount. Receive 20% discount on your postgraduate tuition fees as a 2022 graduate.

Discover your next step.

Trips and experiences

You’ll be able to gain real-world insights through field visits. The course also has strong links with local services who offer opportunities to engage in additional volunteer opportunities.

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