Forensic Psychology MSc at University of Bedfordshire

Supporting the requirements of the British Psychological Society’s Division of Forensic Psychology, this course focuses of developing the expertise and qualities you will need to gain employment at a senior level.

Covering all the main topics and involving advanced study in research methods and professional skills, you will receive stage one training towards becoming a chartered psychologist.

Accreditations

• British Psychological Society

Why choose this course?

• Study the links between scientific theory and practice, and learn to show how a critical understanding of theory may guide the collection and interpretation of empirical data
• Explore your ability to communicate forensic-related material using appropriate methods of delivery to other psychology and non-psychology professionals
• Develop a systematic understanding and critical awareness of current problems, and gain new insights into the theory and practice of forensic psychology
• Gain a high level of knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methods which will allow you to perform complex data analysis, interpretation, evaluation and synthesis
• Benefit from an increased sense of personal responsibility and professionalism that will enable you to practice or conduct research within ethical guidelines while being aware of the requirements of equal opportunities and disabilities legislation.

Unit Information – What Will I Learn?

• Advanced Research Methods For Forensic Psychology (PSY026-6) Compulsory
• Criminal Psychology (PSY023-6) Compulsory
• Dissertation (PSY031-6) Compulsory
• Forensic Psychology In Practice 1 (PSY028-6) Compulsory
• Forensic Psychology In Practice 2 (PSY029-6) Compulsory
• Investigative Psychology (PSY024-6) Compulsory
• Legal Psychology (PSY025-6) Compulsory
• Professional Skills For Forensic Psychologists (PSY030-6) Compulsory
• Victimology (PSY065-6) Compulsory

How will this course enhance my career prospects?

Forensic psychology can be evidenced in a range of settings such as the prison and probation service, the NHS, during criminal investigations and in community settings. However, the advanced route to registration as a Forensic Psychologist is just one direction graduates may wish to embark upon and, having completed your degree you will find that many career opportunities are open to you both inside and outside the forensic sector and psychology related fields. Whatever your thoughts, forensic psychology is compelling as both a discipline and a profession. Studying for the MSc in Forensic Psychology will give you a good grounding in:

• Applying what you learn to simulated as well as real life contexts (e.g., observing court cases, application via hypothetical scenarios and historical real life cases)
• The unit on professional skills in particular begins to explore the skills required of a forensic psychologist and other professions dealing with challenging behaviours and those who have been the victim of offending behaviour. These skills include motivational interviewing, report writing, training skills, working in multidisciplinary environments and teams, building relationships with other professionals, adhering to ethical principles, supervision and reflective practice skills, amongst others
• You will be provided with knowledge regarding the assessment of the risks and treatment needs of offenders as will a provided opportunities to practice the relevant skills with hypothetical scenarios
• Upon completion of the course you will have developed in the area of communication skills and will show evidence of your ability to summarise and convey complex information to others
• Complex problem solving skills will also be developed throughout the course