Doctor of Psychology Forensic Psychology

The Doctor of Psychology in Forensic Psychology (DPsych in Forensic Psychology) is a research-based professional doctoral course for practicing forensic psychologists and aims to develop reflective researching practitioners.

This DPsych in Forensic Psychology is a two and a half year part-time research-based programme which allows experienced practicing forensic psychologists the opportunity to further develop their knowledge, understanding, skills, qualities and attributes in a specialist area of forensic psychology. Throughout the course you will be encouraged to engage in a process of continuous reflection on yourself, your practice and your research, which will ensure that you develop as a reflective researching practitioner.

What you'll study

The DPsych in Forensic Psychology will provide you with an opportunity to explore the complex relationships between knowledge, theory and practice in forensic psychology and to explore the complex relationship between understanding the sector and changing it.

You'll develop as a reflective researching practitioner in the field of forensic psychology through the synthesis of practice with research and you'll develop your ability to design and implement independent and original research at the boundaries of knowledge of forensic psychology.

The course will enable you to undertake critical investigation and evaluation of a forensic psychology topic in order to develop the intellectual and personal adaptability to be able to inform organisational and societal change.

You'll develop a range of skills including your judgement, foresight and problem analysis by applying theoretical and philosophically tuned skills to the research material. You'll also develop your communication skills and the ability to communicate effectively with the academics and practitioners from the academia and the communities in which people live, and to act as interpreters between the two.

This course comprises of two modules designed to allow you to specialise in an area of forensic psychology that interests you. The course also incorporates individual learning plans which are reviewed regularly and include your written reflections on development.

Assessment methods

The DPsych utilises a variety of methods of assessment to capture the researching practitioner focus on the course. The assessments include research projects, a structured evaluation report and a reflective commentary. The thesis portfolio assessment is completed through a Viva Voce examination.

Students must have a British Psychological Society chartership with Full Membership of the Division of Forensic Psychology or Health and Care Professions registration as a Forensic Psychologist to undertake this course. A Master's-level qualification or equivalent (e.g. Stage 1 of the BPS Diploma in Forensic Psychology or 180 M-level credits) in a relevant subject which included research teaching and assessment. It is recommended, but not required that you have five years (including training) of experience in a forensic setting or at least two years of experience post-training. Students will be required to provide two academic references.