Forensic Psychology MSc

Why choose this course?

This course is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS). It draws on Kingston University's established expertise in psychology and criminology.

You will be taught by research-active staff with special interests ranging from intimate partner violence, forensic mental health, and detection of deception. You will also benefit from the close links our staff have with forensic settings located in London and the surrounding area.

You will study the application of psychology in various forensic settings and be introduced to the role of the forensic psychologist. You will examine the legal aspects of forensic psychology (e.g. courts and sentencing) and factors that may lead to criminal behaviour.

Your work placement will last at least 15 weeks (two days a week). Settings include secure hospitals, children's homes, and youth offending teams. Alternatively, you may be offered a research placement reflecting your area of interest. You will have one-on-one supervision for your placement and dissertation.

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

Mode Duration Attendance Start date
Full time 1 year Two days throughout the academic year, plus two days in placement over a consecutive period of 15 weeks, plus other days by arrangement September 2024
Part time 2 years Please contact us to discuss September 2024
Main location Penrhyn Road

Reasons to choose Kingston University

  • This course is accredited by the BPS as fulfilling the requirements of Stage 1 training to become a Chartered Forensic Psychologist.
  • Kingston has close links to forensic settings in London and the surrounding area. Guest speakers are active practitioners in forensic services from prisons, and low, medium, and high security hospitals (for example, Broadmoor).
  • A placement in a setting related to forensic psychology practice.

Accreditation

British Psychological Society

British Psychological Society

British Psychological Society

This course is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), which means that you could go on to become a Chartered Psychologist if that is your chosen career path. This is an ongoing accreditation.

Upon successful completion graduates will be exempt from Stage 1 of the BPS qualification in forensic psychology and will be eligible to apply for Stage 2 supervised practice and full membership of the BPS division of Forensic Psychology and registration with the Health Care and Professions Council (HCPC) should you wish to follow the practitioner route.

Kingston's Department of Psychology

Specialist careers support

You will take part in an Assessment Centre Experience, providing the opportunity to experience the pathway to employment with tailored feedback to help develop your employability skills for the world of graduate employment.

  • Develop your understanding of the jobs market, including current trends and opportunities, different recruitment processes and how to identify relevant roles
  • Receive personalised feedback reports to help you to improve and progress
  • Access additional webinars on top tips, employer expectations and best practice
Specialist careers support

What you will study

Forensic psychology is concerned with the psychological issues associated with criminal behaviour and the treatment of those who have committed offences. It refers to the investigation of deception, fraud, crime and the psychological aspects of legal and judicial process.

You will learn how psychology is applied in various forensic settings and be introduced to the role of the forensic psychologist in practice. You will gain knowledge of the legal aspects of forensic psychology, such as considerations for courts and sentencing, and examine the aetiology of criminal behaviour in depth.

Full time - 1 year

Part time - 2 years

You will study four core, 30 credit, modules plus a Psychology Dissertation, worth 60 credits.

Core modules

Psychology Dissertation

60 credits

The dissertation project will be based on a critical literature review addressing complex and contradictory evidence and will usually require carrying out an empirical study using one or more methodologies of data collection such as experiments, observation, psychometric testing, surveys and questionnaires, interviews and field studies. In all cases, the dissertation will involve the analysis of quantitative and/or qualitative data, as well as the presentation and critical evaluation of research findings. Through independent study and meetings with a project supervisor, the dissertation project will allow you to better understand the role of research methodologies, theoretical considerations and ethical issues in psychological research.

Research Design and Analysis

30 credits

The module provides an advanced coverage of the design and analysis of psychological research. Building on a revision of intermediate inferential statistics (e.g. ANOVA, factorial ANOVA, regression and multiple regression), the course moves quickly towards a consideration of more advanced and specialised quantitative methods (e.g. multivariate statistics, co-variance, structural equation modelling, factor analysis, meta-analysis and advanced regression techniques) and their applications. The course introduces principles of questionnaire design, evaluation and data analysis, along with advanced qualitative research methods. The laboratory workshops combine formal teaching with hands-on activities. The material provides an important foundation for the development and execution of the master's level research dissertation.

Antisocial behaviours across the lifespan; Treatment and intervention

30 credits

This module will enhance your understanding of the key processes that underpin prosocial and antisocial behaviour. You will gain understanding of how biopsychosocial processes can impact on the development of criminal behaviour and neurodevelopmental disorders. You will extend your understanding of the organisation of prisons and forensic mental health services and will achieve some understanding of the assessment and treatment of offenders. You will also learn to evaluate the evidence that supports psychological and biological treatments for those with mental disorders which will enable you to consider its application to forensic psychology practice.

Investigative and Legal Processes in Forensic Psychology

30 credits

This module covers a range of theoretical and applied topics regarding investigative and judicial processes. For example, psychological principles may be applied to investigative approaches to interviewing, detecting deception, bearing false witness, offender profiling, case linkage, eyewitness memory, jury behaviour and decision-making, examining the state of mind and assessment, and expert psychological testimony (ethics, code of practice, report writing and practice). By taking this approach you develop a critical understanding of pertinent stages in the investigative process where psychology may be used to improve interviewing strategies, as in the employment of the cognitive interview to assist in the improvement of witnesses' memory recall. This course then develops upon the investigative knowledge base provided by encouraging you to identify areas within the courtroom process where psychological techniques could be utilised. Thus, you are taken on an analytical and evaluative journey of the key criminal justice processes of the investigation and presentation of evidence in cases.

Applications of Forensic Psychology

30 credits

This module will enhance your understanding of the application of forensic psychology. You will gain knowledge and understanding about organisations in which you might work as a forensic psychologist and the systems and structures within these settings. You will gain an understanding of the skills required when working as a reflective scientist-practitioner. You will also gain knowledge of the foundations of assessment and intervention including theory practice links, critical evaluation, training and consultancy. You will engage with this material through a series of interactive workshops and your participation in either a forensic work based placement or an applied research placement.

Part-time students will take three core, 30 credit, modules in the first year. In the second year you will take one 30 credit module plus a Psychology Dissertation, worth 60 credits.

Year 1

Antisocial behaviours across the lifespan; Treatment and intervention

30 credits

This module will enhance your understanding of the key processes that underpin prosocial and antisocial behaviour. You will gain understanding of how biopsychosocial processes can impact on the development of criminal behaviour and neurodevelopmental disorders. You will extend your understanding of the organisation of prisons and forensic mental health services and will achieve some understanding of the assessment and treatment of offenders. You will also learn to evaluate the evidence that supports psychological and biological treatments for those with mental disorders which will enable you to consider its application to forensic psychology practice.

Research Design and Analysis

30 credits

The module provides an advanced coverage of the design and analysis of psychological research. Building on a revision of intermediate inferential statistics (e.g. ANOVA, factorial ANOVA, regression and multiple regression), the course moves quickly towards a consideration of more advanced and specialised quantitative methods (e.g. multivariate statistics, co-variance, structural equation modelling, factor analysis, meta-analysis and advanced regression techniques) and their applications. The course introduces principles of questionnaire design, evaluation and data analysis, along with advanced qualitative research methods. The laboratory workshops combine formal teaching with hands-on activities. The material provides an important foundation for the development and execution of the master's level research dissertation.

Investigative and Legal Processes in Forensic Psychology

30 credits

This module covers a range of theoretical and applied topics regarding investigative and judicial processes. For example, psychological principles may be applied to investigative approaches to interviewing, detecting deception, bearing false witness, offender profiling, case linkage, eyewitness memory, jury behaviour and decision-making, examining the state of mind and assessment, and expert psychological testimony (ethics, code of practice, report writing and practice). By taking this approach you develop a critical understanding of pertinent stages in the investigative process where psychology may be used to improve interviewing strategies, as in the employment of the cognitive interview to assist in the improvement of witnesses' memory recall. This course then develops upon the investigative knowledge base provided by encouraging you to identify areas within the courtroom process where psychological techniques could be utilised. Thus, you are taken on an analytical and evaluative journey of the key criminal justice processes of the investigation and presentation of evidence in cases.

Year 2

Applications of Forensic Psychology

30 credits

This module will enhance your understanding of the application of forensic psychology. You will gain knowledge and understanding about organisations in which you might work as a forensic psychologist and the systems and structures within these settings. You will gain an understanding of the skills required when working as a reflective scientist-practitioner. You will also gain knowledge of the foundations of assessment and intervention including theory practice links, critical evaluation, training and consultancy. You will engage with this material through a series of interactive workshops and your participation in either a forensic work based placement or an applied research placement.

Psychology Dissertation

60 credits

The dissertation project will be based on a critical literature review addressing complex and contradictory evidence and will usually require carrying out an empirical study using one or more methodologies of data collection such as experiments, observation, psychometric testing, surveys and questionnaires, interviews and field studies. In all cases, the dissertation will involve the analysis of quantitative and/or qualitative data, as well as the presentation and critical evaluation of research findings. Through independent study and meetings with a project supervisor, the dissertation project will allow you to better understand the role of research methodologies, theoretical considerations and ethical issues in psychological research.

Kingston School of Law, Social and Behavioural Sciences

The School offers courses in economics, sociology, law, psychology and criminology. Our degrees are underpinned by a vibrant research culture and delivered by a blend of practitioners and academics who are dedicated to equipping you with the employability skills to thrive in your career.

You will have a wealth of opportunities outside the classroom to further your learning and gain hands-on experience in your chosen field.

What our graduates say

I chose to stay at Kingston University after I completed my undergraduate degree as Kingston has a fantastic psychology department with a strong research reputation.

The course offers a placement within a forensic, clinical or research setting for each student. I was allocated a placement in a medium security hospital for women in West London, a placement I hugely enjoyed. I was able to complete risk assessments, create and lead an art therapy group, and co-facilitate a CBT/DBT based group.

During the course we also received lectures from professionals in forensic psychology, which exposed us to potential career paths and an opportunity to meet practitioners from different services.

Since completing the course, I have worked as an assistant psychologist in a residential school for children with learning disabilities, and I am currently working as a higher assistant psychologist in the NHS with older adults in the community. I know I would not be working in the position I am now without this course. In particular, the placement aspect gave me the "hands on" experience of assessment and intervention that can be so difficult to gain as an undergraduate.

Victoria Walker, currently completing DClinPsy

I chose to continue to study at Kingston University after completing my undergraduate course in Psychology with Criminology, as I knew what the university and psychology department had to offer.

The course included an organised placement, which took away the stress of finding a suitable placement whilst studying. My placement was at a children's home for young people who had experienced trauma and broken attachments. I think this was one of my favourite parts of the course because I was able to work and learn at the same time. The course content also influenced my decision because it covered topics I was interested in and that were appropriate to my desired career path.

The course helped the application for my current job at a psychiatric hospital. In addition, I often find myself referring back to what I learnt on the course and applying it at work.

I could not have achieved as much as I did without the amazing support from all the lecturers on the course. The lecturers provided detailed feedback and discussions on assignments, which enabled me to learn every step of the way. I will be forever grateful to them all.

Raminta Petrauskaite, currently completing DClinPsy

After you graduate

Students have gone onto further training in forensic and clinical psychology after having obtained posts as assistant psychologists in forensic settings. Some students progress to study for a PhD in a relevant area. Graduates have also gained employment in a variety of organisations including children's services, youth offending and probation.

Entry requirements

Typical offer

A 2:1 or above honours degree or equivalent in psychology with BPS accreditation. Selection will include an interview.

Candidates with non-standard qualifications but with relevant experience are welcome to apply.

Interviews

If you meet the minimum requirement for this programme your application will be considered further and you may be invited to an interview. This will be a face-to-face meeting or for International students based overseas it will be via Skype.

Prior learning – AP(E)L

Applicants with prior qualifications and learning may be exempt from appropriate parts of a course in accordance with the University's policy for the assessment of prior learning and prior experiential learning. Contact the faculty office for further information.

International

Please note: most students from countries outside the European Union/European Economic Area and classified as overseas fee paying, are not eligible to apply for part-time courses due to UK student visa regulations. For information on exceptions please visit the UKCISA website or email our CAS and Visa Compliance team.

All non-UK applicants must meet our English language requirement, which is Academic IELTS of 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in all other elements. Make sure you read our full guidance about English language requirements, which includes details of other qualifications we consider.

Applicants who do not meet the English language requirements could be eligible to join our pre-sessional English language course.

Applicants from a recognised majority English speaking countries (MESCs) do not need to meet these requirements.

Country-specific information

You will find more information on country specific entry requirements in the International section of our website.

Find your country:

Teaching and assessment

Guided independent study (self-managed time)

When not attending timetabled sessions, you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. This typically will involve reading journal articles and books, working on individual and group projects, preparing coursework assignments and presentations, and preparing for exams. Your independent learning is supported by a range of excellent facilities including online resources, the library and CANVAS, the online virtual learning platform.

Support for postgraduate students

As a student at Kingston University, we will make sure you have access to appropriate advice regarding your academic development. You will also be able to use the University's support services

Your workload

12% of your time is spent in timetabled learning and teaching activity.

Contact hours may vary depending on your modules.

Forensic Psychology MSc

Forensic Psychology MSc
  • Scheduled learning and teaching: 194 hours
  • Guided independent study (self-managed time): 1406 hours

How you will be assessed

Assessment typically comprises exams (e.g. test or exam), practical (e.g. presentations, performance) and coursework (e.g. essays, reports, self-assessment, portfolios, dissertation). The approximate percentage for how you will be assessed on this course is as follows:

Forensic Psychology MSc

Forensic Psychology MSc
  • Coursework: 100%

Feedback summary

We aim to provide feedback on assessments within 20 working days.

Your timetables

Each student receives a personalised timetable. This is usually available after you have completed your online enrolment, which is typically accessible one month before the start of your course.

Class sizes

You will be part of an intimate cohort of students which supports dedicated academic guidance and advice and gives you the opportunity to build a life-long network of colleagues. Some modules are common across other postgraduate programmes therefore you will be taught alongside students who are on these courses within the School.

Who teaches this course?

You will be taught by an experienced teaching team whose expertise and knowledge are closely matched to the content of the modules on this course. The team includes senior academics and professional practitioners with industry experience. The following group of staff members are currently involved in the delivery of different elements of this course. This pool is subject to change at any time within the academic year.

Fees for this course

2024/25 fees for this course

Home 2024/25

  • MSc full time £10,900
  • MSc part time £5,995

International 2024/25

  • MSc full time £17,900
  • MSc part time £9,845

2023/24 fees for this course

Home 2023/24

  • MSc full time £9,860
  • MSc part time £5,423

International 2023/24

  • MSc full time £16,200
  • MSc part time £8,910

Tuition fee information for future course years

If you start your second year straight after Year 1, you will pay the same fee for both years.

If you take a break before starting your second year, or if you repeat modules from Year 1 in Year 2, the fee for your second year may increase.

Postgraduate loans

If you are a UK student, resident in England and are aged under the age of 60, you will be able to apply for a loan to study for a postgraduate degree. For more information, read the postgraduate loan information on the government's website.

Scholarships and bursaries

Kingston University offers a range of postgraduate scholarships, including:

If you are an international student, find out more about scholarships and bursaries.

We also offer the following discounts for Kingston University alumni:

Additional costs

Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs that are not covered by tuition fees which students will need to consider when planning their studies. Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, access to shared IT equipment and other support services. Accommodation and living costs are not included in our fees. 

Where a course has additional expenses, we make every effort to highlight them. These may include optional field trips, materials (e.g. art, design, engineering), security checks such as DBS, uniforms, specialist clothing or professional memberships.

Textbooks

Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment.

Computer equipment

There are open-access networked computers available across the University, plus laptops available to loan. You may find it useful to have your own PC, laptop or tablet which you can use around campus and in halls of residence. Free WiFi is available on each of the campuses. You may wish to purchase your own computer, which can cost from £100 to £3,000 depending on your course requirements.

Photocopying and printing

In the majority of cases written coursework can be submitted online. There may be instances when you will be required to submit work in a printed format. Printing, binding and photocopying costs are not included in your tuition fees, this may cost up to £100 per year.

Travel

Travel costs are not included in your tuition fees but we do have a free intersite bus service which links the campuses, Surbiton train station, Kingston train station, Norbiton train station and the halls of residence.

Placements

There is a placement for a minimum of 30 days. Travel costs will vary according to the location of the placement, and could be approximately £200 for a 30-day placement within London.

Travelling costs may be more or less than these examples for the minimum 30 days and would be considerably more should the student wish to stay longer at the placement.

Course changes and regulations

The information on this page reflects the currently intended course structure and module details. To improve your student experience and the quality of your degree, we may review and change the material information of this course. Course changes explained.

Programme Specifications for the course are published ahead of each academic year.

Regulations governing this course can be found on our website.