MSc Applied Forensic Psychology F/T

Overview

The Master's Programme in Applied Forensic Psychology at Edinburgh Napier University is designed to provide students with a robust understanding of the psychology research on which forensic psychology practice is based. The program is structured to support students through their journey, with knowledge, critical understanding, and skills acquired through lectures, practical sessions with formative feedback, online group work, face-to-face group work, and guided independent learning.

Mode of Study:

• Full-time

Duration:

• 1 year

Start date:

• September

Entry Requirements

• A minimum of 2:2 on the BPS-accredited degree
• Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) of the British Psychological Society (by completing a BPS-accredited degree or conversion course)

English Language Requirements

• If your first language isn't English, you'll normally need to undertake an approved English language test and our minimum English language requirements will apply.

International Students

• We welcome applications from students studying a wide range of international qualifications.
• Please note that international students are unable to enrol onto the following courses: BM Midwifery/MM Midwifery, All Graduate Apprenticeship courses.

Admissions Policies

• We’re committed to admitting students who have the potential to succeed and benefit from our programmes of study.
• Our admissions policies will help you understand our admissions procedures, and how we use the information you provide us in your application to inform the decisions we make.

Fees & Funding

• The course fees you'll pay and the funding available to you will depend on a number of factors including your nationality, location, personal circumstances and the course you are studying.
• Tuition fees for 2024/25:
  • Scotland, England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland: £7,280
  • Overseas and EU: £18,800
• The University offers a 20% discount on Postgraduate Taught Masters programmes to its alumni.

Careers

• By studying Applied Forensic Psychology at Edinburgh Napier University, you will open the door to numerous and various career paths within the fields of criminal justice and psychology.
• A Forensic Psychologist applies psychological principles and techniques to the legal and criminal justice systems.
• Daily tasks and responsibilities in this role may include:
  • Conflict resolution
  • Crisis intervention
  • Psychological Assessments
  • Expert testimony
  • Treatment and Rehabilitation
  • Consulting with other legal professionals
  • Policy development

Modules

• Advanced Forensic Psychology (PSY11103)
• Advanced Research Skills (PSY11102)
• Advanced Research in Psychological Practice (PSY11112)
• Advice and Consultancy (PSY11108)
• Assessments and Treatments (PSY11105)
• Evidence and Investigation (PSY11104)
• Practical Forensic Psychology (PSY11100)

Lead Academics

• Marc Kozlowski
• Dr Faye Skelton
• Dr Alex McIntyre
• Dr Adam Mahoney
• Dr Duncan Carmichael

Accredited By

• British Psychological Society (BPS)

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Degree Overview:

The MSc Applied Forensic Psychology program at Edinburgh Napier University is designed to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed in the field of forensic psychology. The program's curriculum is informed by the needs of the UK's two largest employers of forensic psychologists, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for real-world challenges.

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Key Objectives:

• Develop rigorous analytical skills alongside practical skills.
• Gain a deep understanding of the psychology research underpinning forensic psychology practice.
• Learn real-life skills used by forensic psychology practitioners.
• Engage in critical discussions with experienced forensic psychology practitioners and professionals from other criminal justice agencies.
• Develop research skills to submission standard, enabling independent critical analysis of existing and new theories and practices.

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Program Description:

The program emphasizes a blend of theoretical understanding and practical application, preparing students for the demands of the criminal justice sector. Graduates will be equipped to understand and conduct research, analyze existing and new theories and practices, and navigate the challenges of working with diverse populations within the criminal justice system.

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Outline:

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Structure:

• Full-time program with a duration of one year.
• Structured to support students throughout their journey.

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Course Schedule:

• Trimester 1:
• Evidence and Investigation (20 credits)
• Assessments and Treatments (20 credits)
• Advanced Research Skills (20 credits)
• Advanced Research in Psychological Practice (20 hours)
• Trimester 2:
• Advanced Forensic Psychology (20 credits)
• Practical Forensic Psychology (20 credits)
• Advanced Research in Psychological Practice (180 hours)
• Trimester 3:
• Advice and Consultancy (20 credits)
• Advanced Research in Psychological Practice (Tri 1, 2, + 3) (60 credits)

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Modules:

• Evidence and Investigation: This module explores the scientific basis of evidence collection and analysis in forensic investigations.
Students will learn about various types of evidence, including physical evidence, eyewitness testimony, and forensic psychology techniques.
• Assessments and Treatments: This module focuses on the assessment and treatment of individuals involved in the criminal justice system.
Students will learn about various psychological assessments, risk assessment tools, and therapeutic interventions used in forensic settings.
• Advanced Research Skills: This module provides students with advanced research methods and skills, including data analysis, statistical techniques, and research ethics.
• Advanced Research in Psychological Practice: This module involves practical research experience, allowing students to apply their research skills to real-world forensic psychology issues.
• Advanced Forensic Psychology: This module delves into advanced topics in forensic psychology, such as criminal profiling, offender rehabilitation, and forensic mental health.
• Practical Forensic Psychology: This module provides hands-on experience in forensic psychology practice, including mock crime scene investigations, witness interviews, and forensic assessments.
Students will learn about communication skills, report writing, and ethical considerations in forensic consultancy.

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Assessment:

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Formative Assessment:

• Participation in activities
• Written portfolio
• Written essay
• Written ethics form
• Written learning agreement

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Summative Assessment:

• Written essays
• Written reports (including a written risk formulation)
• Oral presentations
• Written portfolios
• Written dissertation proposal
• Written ethics submission
• Oral assessment
• Written research project

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Teaching:

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Methods:

• Lectures
• Practical sessions with formative feedback
• Online group work
• Face-to-face group work
• Guided independent learning

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Faculty:

• Marc Kozlowski: Head of Psychology at four UK prisons, bringing extensive experience in recruiting, managing, and supervising forensic psychologists in training.
• Dr. Faye Skelton: Expertise in facial recognition and eyewitness reliability, with experience in public engagement through the Edinburgh Fringe.
• Dr. Alex McIntyre: Publications cover eyewitness accounts in criminal investigations, with active working links with organizations within the criminal justice system.

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Careers:

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Potential Career Paths:

• Her Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (England and Wales)
• Scottish Prison Service
• Hospitals
• Secure children’s homes
• Police forces
• Courts
• Universities

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Opportunities:

• Assess, formulate, and intervene in harmful behaviors to create safer societies.
• Communicate psychological knowledge and advice to other professionals.
• Develop and facilitate training for professionals in forensic settings.

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Outcomes:

• Graduates are well-prepared for careers in forensic psychology, with a strong foundation in both theory and practice.
• The program's focus on real-world relevance ensures graduates are equipped to address the challenges of the criminal justice sector.
• Graduates are eligible for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) of the British Psychological Society, a crucial step towards becoming a chartered psychologist.

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Other:

• The program is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS).
• The program is closed for September 2024 due to high demand.
• Applications for the September 2025 intake will open towards the end of the year.
• Edinburgh Napier University aims to build a community that celebrates diversity and inclusion.
• The program is designed to be relevant and current, reflecting the needs of the criminal justice sector.
• The program provides opportunities for students to engage with experienced practitioners and professionals from other criminal justice agencies.
• The program emphasizes the importance of research and critical analysis in forensic psychology.
• The program is taught by a team of experienced and qualified academics with expertise in various areas of forensic psychology.
• The program offers a range of assessment methods to cater to different learning styles and strengths.
• The program is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to make a positive contribution to the field of forensic psychology.

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• Scotland, England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland: £7,280
• Overseas and EU: £18,800
• The University offers a 20% discount on Postgraduate Taught Masters programmes to its alumni.
The discount applies to all full-time, part-time and online programmes. The discount can only be applied to year one of a full-time Postgraduate degree, any additional years are exempt from the discount. For part time Postgraduate degrees the discount will apply to years one, two and three only and any additional years will be exempt from the discount.
• Please note that the tuition fees liable to be paid by EU nationals commencing their studies from 1 August 2021 will be the Overseas fee rate.
The University offers a range of attractive Tuition Fee bursaries to students resident in specific countries.

Edinburgh Napier University

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Overview:

Edinburgh Napier University is a modern university located in Edinburgh, Scotland. It is renowned for its student learning experience and its commitment to innovation and enterprise. The university boasts a diverse student body with over 20,000 students from over 140 countries.

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Services Offered:

The university offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Libraries and Heritage Collections:

Access to extensive library resources and heritage collections.

Accommodation:

On-campus accommodation options for students.

Student Life:

Opportunities for student engagement through clubs, societies, and events.

Funding:

Bursaries and scholarships to support students financially.

Career Services:

Guidance and support for career development and job searching.

International Student Support:

Dedicated services for international students.

Online Study:

Flexible learning options through online courses.

Short Courses:

Opportunities for professional development through short courses.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Edinburgh Napier University provides a vibrant and engaging campus experience. Students can participate in a variety of activities, including:

Clubs and Societies:

Joining clubs and societies related to their interests.

Events:

Attending university-organized events and social gatherings.

Sports:

Participating in sports teams and activities.

Student Union:

Engaging with the student union for representation and support.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

High Rankings:

Consistently ranked among the top modern universities in Scotland and the UK.

Student Satisfaction:

High student satisfaction rates, reflecting a positive learning environment.

Research Power:

Strong research output and impact, contributing to knowledge advancement.

International Focus:

Diverse student body and global partnerships, fostering a multicultural environment.

Career-Focused Education:

Programs designed to equip students with the skills needed for successful careers.

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Academic Programs:

Edinburgh Napier University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

Accounting and Finance

Acting

Biological Sciences

Building and Surveying

Business and Management

Computing

Criminology, Psychology, and Sociology

Design, Photography, and Advertising

Engineering

English, Creative Writing, and Publishing

Film, Journalism, and Media

Health and Social Care

Law

Marketing

Music

Nursing and Midwifery

Sport and Exercise Sciences

Teaching

Tourism, Hospitality, Festival, and Events Management