Advert
Advert
  • DeadlineStudy Details:

    MSc 1 year full-time

Masters Degree Description

This programme has specific requirements when applying and includes an interview therefore please refer to the ‘How to Apply’ section below before submitting your application. The programme has a limited number of places therefore it is recommended for applicants to apply as early as possible.

Are you fascinated by the psychology of crime and criminal investigation? Do you want to learn about those who commit crime and how we might foster offence free living?  Would you like to understand more about professional practice as a forensic psychologist? This master’s degree has been designed to provide a thorough grounding in Forensic Psychology as required for Stage 1 training as a forensic psychologist accredited by the British Psychological Society.

In this MSc you will develop and apply psychology knowledge to criminal investigation processes, working with those who offend and working with other professionals in the criminal justice system.  You will also undertake a large scale research project in which you will examine an area of forensic psychology theory and practice. 

This course has excellent links with statutory and third sector services such as probation, prison, forensic mental health and third sector services. Staff from these teams are actively involved in providing teaching and opportunities for research to students on this programme.

Why study Forensic Psychology at Swansea?

The programme combines expertise from academics and practitioners, ensuring that the programme content is relevant, up-to-date and evidence-based.  Expertise within the team in psychological assessment, formulation and treatment; investigative processes and staff supervision provides a unique and applied focus for this programme.

Our experience of translating our science from research into real-world impact for society directly benefits our students as it informs our course content. In the latest research assessment, 100% of our research was considered internationally excellent in terms of our impact (REF2021). 

Our state-of-the-art research facilities include a high-density electroencephalography (EEG) suite, a fully fitted sleep laboratory, a social observation suite, eye-tracking, psychophysiological, transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), and conditioning labs, a lifespan lab and baby room, plus more than 20 all-purpose research rooms.

Entry Requirements

  • An initial degree (a minimum of a 2.1) in Psychology (conferring Graduate Basis for Chartership – GBC)
    If you have studied overseas and your degree is not accredited by the British Psychological Society you could visit https://www.bps.org.uk/join-us/membership/graduate-membership (see the non-UK tab) for more information on how to apply for Graduate Membership.
  • A well written personal statement which answers the following questions:

1. Why you want to study for an MSc in Forensic Psychology (max 200 words)

2. Your understanding of what a Forensic Psychologist does in their role (max 200 words)

3. Describe any employment or voluntary experience and how it might be relevant to this programme of study  (max 200 words)

4. Finally, tell us a little about yourself, your interests and career aspirations (max 350 words)

  • A current academic reference.
  • If English is not your first language you will need to have a minimum of IELTS 7, with a minimum of 6.5 in all domains, or a University approved equivalent, prior to starting the programme.

Applicants who meet all the above criteria will be invited to a short on-line interview and scored based on a number of questions. If not initially made an offer following the interview, candidates can be held on a waitlist or offered an alternative eligible course.

Find out more

Fees

For fees and funding options please visit website to find out more

Programme Funding

We offer a wide range of scholarships and bursaries for both taught and research courses to help you fund your study.

Student Destinations

Forensic psychologists work in prison, probation and forensic mental health settings, working closely with the police, the courts, and with victims of crime. Individuals completing an MSc in Forensic Psychology might also choose to develop a career in other roles within the criminal justice system such as the probation, prison or police services.

This course has professional links with a number of local service providers including:

  • Local Health Boards and Social Services departments
  • HM Prison and Probation service
  • Independent sector and third sector providers
  • Local Police Forces

Module Details

For module details please see here

Find out more

Add to comparison

Learn more about Swansea University

Where is Swansea University?