Course Overview

The program will encourage you to scrutinize theoretical models of criminal behavior. You’ll develop an understanding of why people offend, including the onset, development, and maintenance of offending behaviors, while also considering the links between theoretical approaches and practical applications to forensic work.

You’ll learn about a range of therapeutic interventions while acknowledging the challenges that are inherent to working with a forensic population. You will explore the complex relationship between mental disorders and criminal behavior and gain an understanding of the criminal justice system in England and Wales and its various agencies, including law enforcement, the courts, the penal system, and crime prevention agencies. You’ll discuss the role of psychology within the criminal justice system, and be introduced to different aspects of investigative psychology, such as interviewing, eyewitness memory, jury decision-making, and offender profiling.

You’ll examine the latest research, study real-life case studies, learn to carry out assessment interviews, and evaluate available evidence. You’ll also develop transferrable professional skills including specialist report writing and communicating your findings and expertise to a wider audience. To further your professional development, you’ll learn about ethical considerations in research projects, data collection, and data analysis.

Taught by leading experts in the field, you’ll be encouraged to critically evaluate research and apply your theoretical understandings to practical workshops, developing your assessment and consultancy skills.

You will also complete your own master's research project, using the knowledge and skills you’ve learned in the program in your own small-scale research project.

General Eligibility

You should usually hold a second-class honors degree (certain programs may require a 2:1) from a recognized British or overseas university.

Part Time Work Details

20 hours of work permit weekly for international students.

Language Requirement

• IELTS Academic: Postgraduate degrees – 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.

  TOEFL IBT: Postgraduate degrees - 89 overall with a minimum of 17 in Listening and Writing, 18 in Reading, and 20 in Speaking.

  Cambridge Advanced Certificate: Postgraduate degrees - 176 overall with a minimum of 162 in each component (some schools require a minimum of 169 in each)