PgD Forensic Psychology (Practitioner Programme)

The PgD Forensic Psychology (Practitioner Programme) at Cardiff Metropolitan University is a practice-based programme that prepares students to become competent and ethical practitioners in the field of forensic psychology. The programme focuses on the application of psychological principles to legal issues, with an emphasis on the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of offenders and victims. Students will learn how to evaluate and interpret psychological evidence in legal proceedings, work with multi-disciplinary teams, and develop their skills in report writing and testimony. The programme is designed for professionals who are interested in advancing their careers in forensic psychology or transitioning from other fields into forensic psychology.

Additional Information

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, workshops, seminars, and practical exercises. Students will have the opportunity to engage in real-world case studies and projects, working with local authorities and organizations to gain hands-on experience in forensic psychology practice. The programme also includes a placement component, where students will work in a forensic setting under the supervision of experienced practitioners.

Discover the Forensic Psychology Excellence at Cardiff Metropolitan University

Cardiff Metropolitan University is an excellent choice for students interested in pursuing a career in forensic psychology due to its strong reputation for teaching and research in this field. The university has a dedicated Forensic Psychology Research Centre, which provides a platform for students to engage with cutting-edge research and develop their knowledge and skills in the latest techniques and technologies. Additionally, the university's location in Cardiff provides access to a range of legal and criminal justice agencies, offering students opportunities for practical experience and networking.

The purpose of the PG Dip in Practitioner Forensic Psychology is to allow students to progress from Master's level study towards Practitioner status, thereby boosting their employability. At the end of the programme, successful students can apply to the HCPC to be registered as Forensic Psychologists. This course is essential for students who wish to progress on to clinical work within forensic settings or more widely with forensic clients. The programme is placement based and provides supervised support towards developing the competencies required to be an autonomous practitioner.

100% of the graduates from this programme are employed as Forensic Psychologists and so working in professional roles within a variety of organisations in the UK. Some of our graduates may consider returning to complete the Doctorate in Forensic Psychology (Top-Up) once they have decided which area they would like to specialise in.

Applicants will be expected to have a BPS accredited Undergraduate degree and a BPS accredited Masters's degree in Forensic Psychology (or equivalence of BPS Stage 1 training in forensic psychology). In addition to the academic qualifications detailed above, applicants will be expected to demonstrate extensive experience in applied forensic psychology. This can be demonstrated by being employed as a forensic psychologist in training, or a similar role where you have practised, under supervision, forensic psychology with forensic service users. We recommend at least 1 year (full-time) experience in these roles.

20 Hours of Work permit weekly for international students.