Forensic Psychology MSc

Want to study a forensic psychology Master’s in Birmingham? This MSc Forensic Psychology course offers you the chance to learn about some of the most dangerous offenders in society and, their victims.

It will explore, approaches to assisting police with their enquires (investigative psychology), the criminal justice system from a psychological perspective and how to enhance your skills in communication, group work, professionalism and application of IT.

We also aim to improve your research skills and knowledge, through teaching you how to design high-level research projects, conduct statistical analysis, and to evaluate and scientifically report research findings.

The core aim of the course is to prepare students to work with clients and professionals in a range of forensic and forensic-related settings. Equipped with a sound knowledge of key theoretical and applied issues in forensic psychology, you will gain not only a critical appreciation of theoretical and factual concepts, but an awareness of the strengths and limitations of research evidence. The course integrates psychological theory with the development of practical skills and an understanding of professional practice.

What's covered in the course?

The aims of the programme are to:


• Equip you with a detailed critical understanding of the key theoretical and applied issues in forensic psychology, including investigative psychology procedures, the court system, the development of offending behaviour, the assessment and treatment of offenders, and the effects of offending on victims, and;



• Provide an understanding of forensic psychology techniques and the roles of other criminal justice professionals in the detection, prosecution, assessment and treatment of offenders;



• Enable you to acquire an advanced ability to design research, conduct statistical analysis, and evaluate and scientifically report research in forensic psychology;



• Enhance your skills in communication, group work, professionalism and application of IT so that you can perform at a high level of competence in these areas;



• Satisfy the academic requirements for Master’s-level knowledge as set out by the Division for Forensic Psychology of the British Psychological Society.



On successful completion of the course, you will be able to demonstrate an advanced knowledge and critical understanding of the key issues in forensic psychology of relevance to both academics and practitioners. Graduates of this course are expected to have developed advanced academic, intellectual and professional skills, with the ability to work autonomously and in team.

You will be taught by experts in the field of forensic psychology with a wide range of research specialisms, including our Course Director, Professor Michael Brookes OBE, a consultant chartered and registered forensic psychologist, appointed an OBE in 2013 for his services to HM Prison Service and the Care of Prisoners. You will also have the opportunity to attend lectures delivered by professionals currently working in forensic settings.

Our Psychology department has a wide range of psychology testing labs, equipment, and software to support your studies, as well as a dedicated BPS computer lab with networked computers with Psychology-specific software.