MSc Forensic Psychology (BPS accredited)

Examine the role of psychologists in legal settings, advances in the psychological understanding of criminal behaviour, and offender assessment and rehabilitation. Our masters course is specifically designed to meet the criteria of the British Psychological Society (BPS) Division of Forensic Psychology Training Committee. It’s accredited as the first stage towards gaining Chartered Psychologist status with the BPS. You’ll explore topics such as investigating and prosecuting crime, rehabilitation, and other current issues within forensic psychology. In practical sessions, you might work on case formulations, complete violence risk assessments and undertake behavioural investigative advice reports. As well as lectures, seminars and workshops, you’ll have the opportunity to hear from guest speakers to help you learn about what it’s like to work in the field. Past speakers include alumni talking about their careers, members of the local police force, and psychologists working in prisons. Our course lecturers have forensic research and practice experience, and draw on their experience to bring relevant examples to lectures. Some members of staff continue to work in forensic practice alongside their teaching here at Manchester Met.

Career prospects

To practise as a forensic psychologist in the UK, you’ll need to complete further training to achieve chartered psychologist status with BPS and apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). As a registered psychologist, you might work in a range of criminal justice settings such as prisons, probation, voluntary sector services or the police.

This course will enable you to work in a range of forensic and clinical settings such as mental health, youth offending, prisons, probation, secure units, policing, and civil services.

A 2:1 or above in a BPS-accredited psychology undergraduate degree (or equivalent through a psychology conversion course) conferring Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) is required. You will also hold a GCSE or equivalent in English language. International applicants have to show evidence that their undergraduate degree is eligible for GBC. Applicants must contact the British Psychological Society independently to verify this and upload the proof along with their application. For information, please check the BPS website.