Forensic and Criminal Psychology

Overview

This MSc in Forensic and Criminal Psychology from University of Derby  will equip psychology graduates with the academic knowledge and skills they need to conduct practical work and research within a forensic context.

During the course, you will be encouraged to undertake a minimum of 30 hours volunteering to gain real life experience in a related field, as well as to obtain practical insights into forensic and criminal psychology. 

The culmination of the MSc Forensic and Criminal Psychology is the research project which will enable you to tailor your learning to reflect your own specific area of professional interest and your career aspirations. To support your work on your research project, you will develop skills in collecting and analysing data relevant to forensic and criminal psychology. You will also use a range of techniques and research methods applicable to advanced scholarship in the discipline.

On successful completion of the course, you may continue your training to become a Forensic Psychologist, or pursue a career in sectors such as the prison and probation services, crime analysis or education.

Careers

Students generally choose the MSc Forensic and Criminal Psychology because they wish to pursue a career in Forensic Psychology. 

Forensic Psychologists work across many agencies within the criminal justice system, primarily in prison and probation services, secure hospitals, the police, and the courts in roles such as:

• Offender Manager

• Probation Officer

• Psychological Assistant

• Offender Behaviour Programme Facilitator

• Trainee Forensic Psychologist (stage 2 Qualification in Forensic Psychology)

• Behavioural Support Mentor in a school

• Mental Health Recovery Worker

• Forensic Support Worker

• Assistant Forensic Psychologist

• Therapy Coordinator

• Mental Health Adviser at a university

• Academic or career in research

• PhD study

Accreditation

The MSc Forensic and Criminal Psychology is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), thereby accounting for Stage 1 of the qualification for those who already hold Graduate Basis of Chartership (GBC) with the BPS.