Forensic and Criminological Psychology MSc (by research)

The MSc (by research) Forensic and Criminological Psychology is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS). At successful completion, it fulfils Stage I of the BPS professional training in forensic psychology and therefore gives eligibility to enter Stage II of the BPS Diploma or at a later date, apply for the Top up Doctorate in Forensic Psychology at the University of Nottingham*.

*It is expected that those who apply for the MSc programme only will graduate with the MSc qualification at the end of the year.

Applications are now accepted all year.

Structure

The course provides comprehensive knowledge in theory and evidence based practice with victims and offenders. It consists of six theoretical modules and a research project/dissertation incorporating research methods training equivalent to two 10-credit taught modules.

The course can be completed over one year full-time or two years part time. The teaching is delivered through workshops led by experts and practicing clinicians Tuesday to Thursday each week during term time (36 weeks).

The programme is assessed by means of continuous assessment related to each module.

Eligibility

Applicants must hold a BPS accredited 1st or 2nd class honours degree in a psychology programme (single or joint honours) or equivalent conferring eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBCM) of the BPS. Experience in a forensic setting is beneficial but not essential for MSc applications.

Frequently asked questions

The course consists of six theoretical modules and a research project/dissertation incorporating research methods training equivalent to two 10-credit taught modules.

• Theories of Criminal Behaviour
• Forensic Child Psychology
• Forensic Mental Health
• Law and Criminal Justice
• Forensic Organisational Psychology
• Forensic Practice Interventions

The modules we offer are inspired by the research interests of our staff and as a result may change for reasons of, for example, research developments or legislation changes. This list is an example of typical modules we offer, not a definitive list.

Financial support and highly competitive scholarships are available, and we encourage potential applicants to explore all funding possibilities.

Please check the Graduate School for opportunities you may be eligible for in addition to those outlined here.

The University's Careers and Employability Service also provides a useful information service about further studies and sources of funding for graduates.

NB: Please note that scholarship applications cannot be considered until an offer has been made.

Government loans for masters courses

The Government offers postgraduate student loans for students studying a taught or research masters course. Applicants must ordinarily live in England or the EU. Student loans are also available for students from Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland.

International and EU students

Masters scholarships are available for international students from a wide variety of countries and areas of study. You must already have an offer to study at Nottingham to apply. Please note closing dates to ensure your course application is submitted in good time.

Information and advice on funding your degree, living costs and working while you study is available on our website, as well as country-specific resources.

UK students

Find out more about postgraduate loans.

Additional Funding Opportunities

Learning Beyond Registration (LBR) funding: applicants who will be employed by the NHS in the East Midlands while they are undertaking their studies may be eligible to apply for Learning Beyond Registration (LBR) funding through the East Midlands Healthcare Workforce Deanery. Funding may be available for both full programmes and individual modules.

The University of Nottingham is consistently named as one of the most targeted universities by Britain’s leading graduate employers* and can offer you a head-start when it comes to your career.

Our Careers and Employability Service offers a range of services including advice sessions, employer events, recruitment fairs and skills workshops – and once you have graduated, you will have access to the service for life.

* The Graduate Market 2013-2016, High Fliers Research

Average starting salary and career progression

In 2015, 93% of postgraduates from the Faculty of Medicine & Health Services who were available for employment had secured work or further study within six months of graduation. The average starting salary was £28,925 with the highest being £70,000.*

*Known destinations of full-time home postgraduates 2014/15. Salaries are calculated based on those in full-time paid employment within the UK.