Program Overview

Doctor of Forensic Psychology (DForenPsy) (Distance Learning)

Overview

A new programme developed to look to the future of forensic psychology, delivered online (taught element and research supervision) except for 1 week taught block in both Autumn and Spring terms. Combining the portfolio expertise in training therapeutic skills with training in complex forensic understanding.

Course Design

This programme consists of an academic taught element, and research thesis, and placements. The programme aims to develop student competencies across the 4 core roles of a forensic psychologist and the relevant core competencies to practice as a forensic psychologist.

Structure and Delivery

The programme is delivered across 3 years, with the academic year starting in the last week of September. Students will attend Streatham Campus for a week of block teaching at the start of the Autumn, and Spring terms. The rest of the programme’s taught element and research supervision will be delivered online.

Accreditations

The Doctor of Forensic Psychology programme is an integrated training programme that combines taught modules, research, and placement-based experiences, designed for aspiring early-career forensic psychologists. This programme has been approved by the Health and Care Professions Council.

Supervision

Students have access to senior, research active supervisors and teachers in a range of research methodologies, qualitative and quantitative, with a wide spectrum of research interests.

Entry Requirements

• Graduate Basis for Registration (GBC) confirmed at time of application from the British Psychological Society.
• Plus one of the following:
  • 1st class or 2:1 psychology degree or a non-psychology degree plus completion of an accredited psychology conversion course.
  • 2:2 undergraduate psychology degree plus a relevant research Masters, DPhil or PhD.
  • 2:2 without a Masters if one of the contextual admissions criteria is met.

How to Apply

Applications will be through the university. The information below applies to self-funded DForenPsy applicants. In some cases there may be funded places available through healthcare trusts or other organisations.

Fees and Funding

• Tuition fees per year 2025/26:
  • Home: £14,600 per year for 3 years
  • International: £26,000 per year for 3 years
• Funding opportunities will be provided by the programme as they become available.

Careers

This degree is an integrated Stage 1 and Stage 2 doctoral programme that on completion will allow you to practise as a Forensic Psychologist, and to be eligible for registration with the HCPC as a Forensic Psychologist. There are a range of different jobs that you will be eligible for on graduation including in prisons, secure services and community locations. There is increasing demand for Forensic Psychologists, making them highly employable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• How many places are available?
  • We are expecting to offer a maximum of 25 places in our first year.
• What is the application/interview process?
  • First, you will complete your application online, including a personal statement and reference or referees’ details to comment on your academic and work experience suitability.
• How are trainees allocated to their research supervisors?
  • Like our other professional doctorate programmes here at Exeter, we provide a pack of information about supervisors and potential projects/interests on arrival.
• What if I have an MSc (BPS Stage 1 or 2) in Forensic Psychology?
  • We have developed routes into the programme.
• Are you offering a route into the doctorate for people who have Stage 1 and Stage 2?
  • Yes. You can join the programme and skip certain modules, depending on your prior learning.