Entry requirements
Entry requirements Normally you need • a recognised degree in psychology. • two appropriate references. • a high level of English language competence to successfully complete the course. If the language your first degree was taught in was not English, then typically IELTS 6.5 , TOEFL 620. Places are limited but there is no discrimination against any group or individual on the grounds of ethnic origin, nationality, gender, disability, marital status, sexuality, political or religious belief International applicants, and applicants with disabilities are particularly welcomed onto the programme. For all applicants a good level of English is essential and it is important that international applicants have the level of English required to cope with the demands of the course. If you are concerned, you can attend the TESOL centre’s pre-session induction course. This may be recommended or required. We normally interview students before admissions are finalised. International students may be interviewed by telephone or e-mail.
Course description
The course
This course builds on the study of psychology at undergraduate level. It provides a detailed knowledge and understanding of the application of psychology to legal and criminal issues.
In civil and criminal cases, forensic psychologists may contribute in various ways, such as providing expert testimony in courts or advising the police on effective interview strategies .
During this course you study the theories of criminal behaviours and develop an understanding of why some individuals become criminals.
By studying forensic psychology in a legal context, you develop an understanding of how other disciplines and social factors influence its theory, research and development. This illustrates the strengths and limitations of psychology in a forensic context.
You study how psychological research can inform approaches to the effective detection of crimes, and the conviction of criminals. You evaluate and use forensic psychological research approaches.
With the support and guidance of a tutor, you complete a self-designed research project using methods studied during the course. This allows you to bring the legal and psychological aspects of the course together.
If you already work within a criminal justice setting – for example, youth offending teams, the Police Force, Probation Service or courts – the course equips you with valuable skills to inform professional activities. If you have studied psychology at undergraduate level and you want to expand your forensic psychology skills, this course gives you a good grounding.
Associated careers
You can find employment in criminal justice agencies, with offenders and the victims of crime, or in crime detection.
You can also find careers in the police force itself or private firms who provide the judiciary with forensic psychological information.
Course content
Modules
• criminal law • legal methodology • law of evidence • forensic psychology in context • investigative psychology • psychology of criminal behaviour • research project
Attendance
Full-time – one year
Part-time – two years
