Forensic Psychology MSc

Program Overview

This BPS-accredited MSc in Forensic Psychology combines academic study and practical experience to prepare graduates for careers in forensic settings. Students gain hands-on experience through a work placement and develop skills essential for a successful career in forensic psychology.

Program Outline

This MSc in Forensic Psychology is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and draws upon Kingston University's expertise in psychology and criminology.

• Acquire practical experience through a work placement in a forensic setting.
Students learn how psychology is applied in various forensic contexts and are introduced to the practical role of a forensic psychologist. The program covers both theoretical and applied aspects, including legal considerations, the aetiology of criminal behavior, and practical skills development.

Outline:

Full-time (1 year)

• Core Modules:
Students analyze quantitative and/or qualitative data, present research findings, and critically evaluate their research.
• Research Design and Analysis (30 Credits): This module covers advanced research design and analysis, building upon intermediate inferential statistics and introducing more specialized quantitative methods like multivariate statistics, co-variance, structural equation modeling, factor analysis, meta-analysis, and advanced regression techniques.
It also includes principles of questionnaire design, evaluation, and data analysis, as well as advanced qualitative research methods. Topics include interviewing techniques, detecting deception, assessing eyewitness memory, analyzing jury behavior and decision-making, examining the state of mind, and providing expert psychological testimony (including ethical considerations, code of practice, report writing, and practice). It covers the foundations of assessment and intervention, theory-practice links, critical evaluation, training, and consultancy. Students participate in interactive workshops and either a forensic work-based placement or an applied research placement.

Part-time (2 years)

• Year 1:
• Antisocial Behaviours Across the Lifespan; Treatment and Intervention (30 Credits):
See description above.
• Research Design and Analysis (30 Credits): See description above.
• Investigative and Legal Processes in Forensic Psychology (30 Credits): See description above.
• Year 2:
• Applications of Forensic Psychology (30 Credits):
See description above.
• Psychology Dissertation (60 Credits): See description above.

Assessment:

• Assessment typically comprises exams, practical components (e.g., presentations, performance), and coursework (e.g., essays, reports, self-assessment, portfolios, dissertation).
• The course is assessed primarily through coursework (100%).
• Feedback is provided within 20 working days.

Teaching:

• The teaching team consists of experienced academics and professional practitioners with industry experience.
• The course utilizes a blend of lectures, seminars, workshops, and independent study.
• Students benefit from close links to forensic settings in London and the surrounding area.

Careers:

• Graduates are prepared for careers in forensic and clinical psychology.
• Graduates may pursue further training in forensic psychology or a PhD in a related field.
• Common career paths include:
• Assistant Psychologist in forensic settings
• Forensic Psychologist
• Clinical Psychologist
• Researcher
• Work in children's services
• Youth offending teams
• Probation services
• Crime analysis
• Kingston University's Department of Psychology provides specialist careers support.
• Program specifications are published ahead of each academic year.

Home 2025/26 MSc full time £11,400 MSc part time £6,270 International 2025/26 MSc full time £18,700 MSc part time £10,285 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