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Different course options

Full time | City Centre Campuses | 1 year | SEP

Study mode

Full time

Duration

1 year

Start date

SEP

Key information
DATA SOURCE : IDP Connect

Qualification type

MSc - Master of Science

Subject areas

Forensic Psychology Forensic Medical Studies

Course type

Taught

Course Summary

Overview

Want to study a Forensic Psychology Master’s in Birmingham? Our MSc Forensic Psychology course is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and provides the first step (Stage 1) towards gaining chartered status as a forensic psychologist.

In this course you will learn about some of the most dangerous offenders in society and their victims, the various approaches to assisting police with their enquires (investigative psychology), the Criminal Justice System from a psychological perspective, the role of forensic psychologists in various forensic settings, and you will develop skills that will prepare you for Stage 2 training or further postgraduate studies.

This course will also enhance your research skills and knowledge, through teaching you how to design high-level research projects, conduct statistical analysis, and to evaluate and scientifically report research findings.

The core aim of the course is to prepare you to work with clients and professionals in a range of forensic and forensic-related settings. Equipped with a sound knowledge of key theoretical and applied issues in forensic psychology, you will gain not only a critical appreciation of theoretical and factual concepts, but an awareness of the strengths and limitations of research evidence. The course integrates psychological theory with the development of practical skills and an understanding of professional practice.

What's covered in the course?

The aims of the course are to:

  • Equip you with a detailed critical understanding of the key theoretical and applied issues in forensic psychology, including investigative psychology procedures, the court system, the development of offending behaviour, the assessment and treatment of offenders, and the effects of offending on victims
  • Provide an understanding of forensic psychology techniques and the roles of other criminal justice professionals in the detection, prosecution, assessment and treatment of offenders
  • Enable you to acquire an advanced ability to design research, conduct statistical analysis, and evaluate and scientifically report research in forensic psychology
  • Enhance your skills in communication, group work, professionalism and application of IT so that you can perform at a high level of competence in these areas
  • Satisfy the academic requirements for Master’s-level knowledge as set out by the Division for Forensic Psychology of the British Psychological Society

On successful completion of the course, you will be able to demonstrate an advanced knowledge and critical understanding of the key issues in forensic psychology of relevance to both academics and practitioners. Graduates of this course are expected to have developed advanced academic, intellectual and professional skills, with the ability to work autonomously and in team.

Enhancing your employability

You will have the opportunity to visit a local prison such as HMP Birmingham, attend court hearings and gain practical experience in one of the University’s mock courtrooms.

We will also assist in identifying work experience opportunities and the Centre for Academic Success offers 1:1 and small group private tutorials in English (including academic writing), study skills, maths, statistics, Word, Excel, programming, networking and project management.

Many graduates go on to gain employment within the health, charity and policing industries, such as working as a trainee forensic psychologist in a prison or mental health facility or as an assistant in one of these settings. You can also develop your academic career and choose to undertake further research within a higher education setting.

Modules

This module will provide you with knowledge and critical understanding of the application of psychological theory and research to legal proceedings, the criminal investigation process, and prosecution of offences. At the same time, you will be equipped with an appreciation of the role and functioning of the Criminal Justice System.

Tuition fees

UK fees
Course fees for UK students

For this course (per year)

£9,710

International fees
Course fees for EU and international students

For this course (per year)

£17,710

Entry requirements

For latest entry requirements please visit the BCU website.