Forensic Psychology (MSc)

Overview

This MSc provides you with an advanced and up-to-date understanding of theoretical and applied issues in Forensic Psychology and training in professional competencies. The course integrates psychological theory and research with the development of practical skills and understanding of the scope of professional practice. This MSc has been accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and can be taken on a full- or part-time basis. The course provides a professional qualification that meets Part One of the BPS requirements for Chartered Forensic Psychologist status.

Applicants for the programme must read the guidance document "Programme information for applicants".

Taster Session MSc Forensic Psychology

This will provide you with an opportunity to attend a talk in a key area of Forensic Psychology,given by a member of the course team for the MSc who is also a Chartered Forensic Psychologist

Monday 12th March 5.00-5.45pm
Title: Homicide-Suicide: Assessment, Risk and Consequences.
Location: London Metropolitan University, School of Psychology, Calcutta House, Old Castle
Street, London E1 7NT.

To reserve a place for this Taster session then please email psychology@londonmet.ac.uk

Faculty of Life Sciences

www.londonmet.ac.uk/depts/fls/

Applying and entry

PLEASE NOTE There is no official closing date for this course, but you are advised to apply as early as possible as we will only consider your application if there are places available on the course.

Tel: 020 7133 4202
Email: admissions@londonmet.ac.uk

Applicants should have, or expect to obtain, a good (at least a lower second) degree in psychology or equivalent subject that confers Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the BPS. Non-UK degree holders should contact the BPS (http://www.bps.org.uk) to find out whether they qualify for GBC. If not, it is possible to take the Graduate Conversion Diploma in Psychology to gain entry to this course. Proficiency in the English language is essential. If English is not your first language, you will require an IELTS 6.5 minimum with a minimum score of 6 in all components, TOEFL (old examination) 630, TOEFL (new examination) 267 or equivalent. All successful applicants are interviewed.

Course contents

The course consists of six core modules, an option or designate module and a substantial empirical research project (equivalent to three modules). The main areas of study are:

• Professional Context and Practice of Forensic Psychology
• Psychology and Criminal Behaviour
• The Investigation and Prosecution of Criminal Offences
• Research Issues and Advanced Data Analysis
• Assessment and Intervention Theory
• Applied Assessment and Intervention

You then choose one of the following optional modules*:

• Psychology and Policing
• Psychology and the Courts
• Psychology and the Penal System
• Psychology and Sexual Violence**
• Psychology and the Sexual Exploitation of Children and Young People**
• International Perspectives in Forensic Psychology***

Read more about the modules

You are also offered the opportunity to participate in Level A Occupational Testing Certification. A separate information sheet about these BPS recognised qualifications is available on request.

The empirical project (8,000 - 10,000 words) is a substantial independent and in-depth study in the field of forensic psychology, where you are encouraged to pursue your own area of interest with guidance. You may also conduct your research in applied settings subject to approval. Opportunities may exist for motivated students to undertake work within a forensic setting by participating in placement-based project work. For example, previous students have worked within offender rehabilitation charities and organisations such as NIACRO, Victim Support, Child Protection Services, and Youth Offending Teams.

Assessment
The course is assessed through both coursework and examination. Assessment requirements vary according to each module and include essays, professional reports, portfolios, oral presentations, case studies and research exercises.

Careers

Most graduates are expected to continue on to careers in one of the main settings in which forensic psychologists work: the police services, the Home Office, the Prison Service, in special hospitals, regional secure units, the probation services, as consultants and in academia. Prospects in many of these areas are good. On graduation you can also apply for an MPhil/PhD course.

* Please note that while we will endeavour to offer students their first choice of module, we cannot guarantee that every designate will run each year.
** In conjunction with CWASU, London Metropolitan University. More information about the work of this unit can be found here.
*** We are very pleased to be able to offer students the opportunity to meet and work alongside US Forensic Psychology Students during the course of this module. This is a joint teaching programme offered in conjunction with Marymount University, Virginia. This module has proved extremely popular and is run alternatively in the UK and in the Arlington, near Washington DC. The module consists of a series of site visits and workshops facilitated by UK and American practicing forensic professionals