University of Winchester

MSc Forensic Psychology

University of WinchesterOn campus, Winchester

Course overview

The course introduces the context and application of psychology in various forensic settings including the legal and criminal justice system, forensic psychological practice and forensic mental health. You are introduced to the role of a forensic psychologist in practice. The programme focuses on core theoretical models of crime with an emphasis on theoretical, practical and methodological limitations.

When considering applied skills in forensic practice, there is a focus on specialist assessments, core treatments and interventions utilised when working with various client groups in a forensic setting. Client groups include offenders in prison, secure hospitals and the community, as well as offenders on probation and within the legal system (court assessment). You gain the ability to design, conduct, analyse, interpret and evaluate psychological research in a chosen specialised research area.

There is an emphasis on reflective practice skills, and professional and ethical practice in the workplace. Students are also encouraged to work with the university’s volunteering team, to seek out opportunities for working or volunteering in relevant forensic practice roles alongside their course Core modules include Foundations of Forensic Psychology Practice, The Criminal Justice System and the Legal Framework, Specialist Skills in Treatment and Interventions, and Investigative Psychology. You have access to excellent facilities including numerous research cubicles and laboratories eq

Key highlights

  • Covers legal, criminal justice and forensic mental health settings
  • Specialist assessments, treatments and interventions for forensic client groups
  • Work with offenders in prisons, secure hospitals, probation and courts
  • Independent research project in a chosen specialised area
  • Emphasis on reflective, professional and ethical workplace practice
  • Access to research cubicles and psychology laboratories

Entry requirements

  • Degree: 2nd class — or above

Scholarships

  • Chevening Scholarship

    Tuition fees, a monthly stipend, travel costs to and from the UK, an arrival allowance, a homeward departure allowance, one visa application, and a travel grant to attend Chevening events in the UK.

  • International Student Scholarship - Postgraduate

    Value: £5,000

    Up to £5,000

Careers this course leads to

  • Trainee forensic psychologist
  • Assistant psychologist
  • Probation officer
  • Prison offender manager
  • Forensic mental health practitioner
  • Psychology researcher

Cost of study

UK/Home: £9,550 per year | International: £17,450 per year

Admission

Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to University of Winchester, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.

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