Forensic Psychology MSc
Subject and course type
- Psychology
- Postgraduate
Take the next step on your journey to becoming a forensic psychologist with the British Psychological Society (BPS) accredited MSc in Forensic Psychology from Kingston University.
You are reading:
Learn to unpick the psychological underpinnings of criminal behaviour
You will be taught by research-active staff with special interests ranging from intimate partner violence, forensic mental health, and detection of deception.
This course is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) as fulfilling the requirements of Stage 1 training to become a Chartered Forensic Psychologist. Meaning you will graduate ready to either continue your training to become a chartered forensic psychologist or pursue a career in the prison and probation services, crime analysis or education.
Join the Kingston School of Law, Social and Behavioural Sciences. 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.
You will also benefit from the close links our staff have with forensic settings located in London and the surrounding area. Guest speakers are active practitioners in forensic services, such as prisons and low, medium, and high security hospitals (for example, Broadmoor).
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.
Why choose this course
This course draws on Kingston University's established expertise in psychology and criminology.
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.
This course also provides you with the opportunity for a crucial observational work placement. Possible settings include both statutory and third sector contexts, such as secure psychiatric hospitals, children's homes and youth offending teams.
You will additionally benefit from supervision from our research active staff members for your dissertation.
Accreditation
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.
Prepare for global impact
Kingston School of Law, Social and Behavioural Sciences 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.
Course content
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
You will study four core, 30 credit, modules plus a Psychology Dissertation, worth 60 credits.
Core modules
60.00 credits
The dissertation project will be based on a critical literature review addressing complex and contradictory evidence. It 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 enable you to better understand the role of research methodologies, theoretical considerations and ethical issues in psychological research.
30.00 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 module 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 masters level research dissertation.
30.00 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.
30.00 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.
30.00 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.
Part time - 2 years
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
30.00 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.
30.00 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 module 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 masters level research dissertation.
30.00 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
30.00 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.
60.00 credits
The dissertation project will be based on a critical literature review addressing complex and contradictory evidence. It 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 enable you to better understand the role of research methodologies, theoretical considerations and ethical issues in psychological research.
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.
Career opportunities
Students who’ve graduated from this course have gone onto further training at PhD level in forensic or clinical psychology, after having obtained posts as assistant psychologists in forensic settings. Graduates have also gained employment in a variety of organisations, including children's services, youth offending and probation.
Specialist careers support
You will take part in an Assessment Centre Experience, providing the opportunity to experience the pathway to employment with tailored feedback:
- 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
Teaching and assessment
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.
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.
A course is made up of modules, and each module is worth a number of credits. You must pass a given number of credits in order to achieve the award you registered on, for example 360 credits for a typical undergraduate course or 180 credits for a typical postgraduate course. The number of credits you need for your award is detailed in the programme specification which you can access from the link at the bottom of this page.
One credit equates to 10 hours of study. Therefore 180 credits across a year (typical for a postgraduate course) would equate to 1,800 notional hours. These hours are split into scheduled and guided. On this course, the percentage of that time that will be scheduled learning and teaching activities is shown below. The remainder is made up of guided independent study.
- 22% scheduled learning and teaching
The exact balance between scheduled learning and teaching and guided independent study will be informed by the modules you take.
Your course will primarily be delivered in person. It may include delivery of some activities online, either in real time or recorded.
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:
- Coursework: 100%
We aim to provide feedback on assessments within 20 working days.
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.
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.
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.
Fees and funding
| Fee category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Home (UK students) | |
| Full Time | £11,400 |
| Part Time | £6,270 |
| International | |
| Full Time | £18,700 |
| Part Time | £10,285 |
| Fee category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Home (UK students) | |
| Full Time | £10,900 |
| Part Time | £5,995 |
| International | |
| Full Time | £17,900 |
| Part Time | £9,845 |
Funding support for postgraduate students
If you are a UK student living in England and under 60, you can apply for a loan to study for a postgraduate degree on the government's website.
Scholarships and bursaries
For students interested in studying Forensic Psychology MSc at Kingston, there are several opportunities to seek funding support:
The Niloufar Ebrahim Scholarship is worth up to the value of £11,000 towards tuition fees for international postgraduate students in the Faculty of Business and Social Sciences.
For more information on how to apply for this scholarship, visit the Niloufar Ebrahim Scholarship page.
The Inspire the Future Scholarship offers a 40% reduction in fees for taught masters or postgraduate diploma courses with September start dates. 20 scholarships are available for progressing Kingston University graduates.
For more information on how to apply for this scholarship, visit the Inspire the Future Scholarship page.
International postgraduate students could receive up to £5,000 towards tuition in their first year of study.
For more information on how to apply for these scholarships, visit the International Scholarship page.
If you are a Kingston University 2024/25 undergraduate progressing to a 2025/26 postgraduate degree (taught or research), you could get a 15% reduction in tuition fees.
For more information on how to apply for this scholarship, visit the Postgraduate Progression Scholarship page.
Kingston University offers a 10% discount on full and part-time postgraduate degree course tuition fees to our alumni.
For more information on how to apply for this discount, visit our alumni discount page.
Additional course costs
Some courses may require additional costs beyond tuition fees. When planning your studies, you’ll want to consider tuition fees, living costs, and any extra costs that might relate to your area of study.
Your tuition fees include costs for teaching, assessment and university facilities. So your access to libraries, shared IT resources and various student support services are all covered. Accommodation and general living expenses are not covered by these fees.
Where applicable, additional expenses for your course may include:
Our libraries have an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as open-access computers and laptops available to rent. However, you may want to buy your own computer or personal copies of key textbooks. Textbooks may range from £50 to £250 per year. And a personal computer can range from £100 to £3,000 depending on your course requirements.
While most coursework is submitted online, some modules may require printed copies. You may want to allocate up to £100 per year for hard-copies of your coursework. It’s worth noting that 3D printing is never compulsory. So if you choose to use our 3D printers, you’ll need to pay for the material. This ranges from 3p per gram to 40p per gram.
Kingston University will pay for all compulsory field trips. Fees for optional trips can range from £30 to £350 per trip.
Your tuition fees don’t cover travel costs. To save on travel costs, you can use our free intersite bus service. This route links the campuses and halls of residence with local train stations - Surbiton, Kingston upon Thames, and Norbiton.
How to apply
Before you apply
Please read the entry criteria carefully to make sure you meet all requirements before applying.
How to apply online
Use the course selector drop down at the top of this page to choose your preferred course, start date and mode, then click 'Apply now'. You will be taken to our Online Student Information System (OSIS) where you will complete your application.
If you’re starting a new application, you’ll need to select ‘new user’ and set up a username and password. This will allow you to save and return to your application.
Application deadlines
We encourage you to apply as soon as possible. Applications will close when the course is full.
Information required to confirm your place
If English is not your first language, we will require proof of your proficiency to allow us to confirm your place on the course. This will generally be either an IELTS or TOEFL test certificate, which can be forwarded to us after you have submitted your application. If you do not hold a formal English language qualification, please indicate how you have acquired your proficiency in written and spoken English.
After you have applied
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.
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. Find out more about course changes
Programme Specifications for the course are published ahead of each academic year.
Regulations governing this course can be found on our website.
What our students and graduates say
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.
