MSc Psychology of Forensic & Criminal Behaviour

Understand the Mind Behind Crime

The Master of Science (MSc) in Psychology of Forensic & Criminal Behaviour is a research-informed, practice-led postgraduate programme designed for students and professionals seeking to explore the psychological foundations of criminal activity and its impact on the justice system. This advanced course provides a scientific and applied understanding of offender behaviour, forensic assessment, investigative psychology, and rehabilitation strategies—ensuring you graduate ready to contribute meaningfully to law enforcement, mental health services, or criminal justice organisations.

Whether you’re aiming for a career in forensic psychology, criminal profiling, prison services, or police consultancy , this MSc equips you with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to work effectively within the legal and criminal justice systems.

This course also serves as a foundation for further professional training, including progression towards Stage 2 Qualification in Forensic Psychology with the British Psychological Society (BPS) .

Why Choose This MSc?

• Scientific Understanding of Crime: Explore psychological theories behind violent crime, sexual offending, organised crime, and risk evaluation.
• Practical Application Focus: Engage in real-world case studies, criminal profiling techniques, and forensic interviews.
• Expert-Led Teaching: Learn from experienced forensic psychologists, criminologists, and legal practitioners actively working in the field.
• Career-Focused Curriculum: Designed to meet growing demand for forensic expertise in policing, prisons, courts, and mental health services.
• Flexible Study Options: Available full-time, part-time, or through blended learning—ideal for working professionals.

Course Structure: From Theory to Real-World Practice

This MSc blends academic study with applied learning, ensuring you develop both critical thinking and hands-on forensic skills required for professional practice.

Core Modules:

• Theories of Criminal Behaviour – Examine psychological, biological, and environmental factors influencing deviant and criminal conduct.
• Forensic Psychology in Practice – Understand how forensic psychologists support investigations, risk assessments, and offender rehabilitation.
• Investigative Psychology – Explore criminal profiling, eyewitness testimony, deception detection, and forensic interviewing techniques.
• Mental Health and Offending – Investigate the relationship between psychiatric disorders and criminal behaviour in secure settings.
• Risk Assessment and Offender Rehabilitation – Develop tools to assess reoffending risk and design intervention programmes.
• Psychology and the Legal System – Study courtroom psychology, expert witness roles, jury decision-making, and legal ethics.
• Research Methods in Forensic Psychology – Build expertise in qualitative and quantitative research, data analysis, and forensic report writing.
• Dissertation Project – Conduct independent research under expert supervision on a topic aligned with your interests and career goals.

Please note: Module availability may vary depending on university and delivery mode.

Skills You Will Develop

By studying this MSc, you will gain:

• Criminal Behaviour Analysis – Apply psychological models to understand why individuals engage in criminal activity.
• Forensic Assessment Techniques – Learn how to evaluate offenders using structured clinical tools and psychological testing.
• Investigative Profiling Expertise – Use evidence-based methods to support law enforcement and intelligence agencies.
• Legal and Ethical Insight – Navigate courtroom procedures, expert witness responsibilities, and ethical dilemmas in forensic practice.
• Advanced Research Capabilities – Conduct psychological research using SPSS, JASP, and other statistical tools used in forensic science.

Teaching & Assessment Methods

You will learn through a combination of:

• Lectures and seminars led by qualified forensic psychologists
• Case study discussions and role-play exercises
• Guest lectures from police officers, prison psychologists, and court consultants
• Independent and collaborative research projects
• Workshops on forensic interviewing and risk evaluation

Assessment includes:

• Written essays and case analyses
• Psychological reports and risk evaluations
• Oral presentations and debates
• Final dissertation or applied forensic research paper

Regular feedback and academic support ensure you build confidence and competence throughout the programme.

Who Should Apply?

This course is ideal for:

• Graduates with a 2:2 honours degree or equivalent in Psychology, Criminology, Law, Mental Health , or related disciplines.
• Applicants with non-psychology degrees may be required to complete a conversion module to meet BPS expectations.
• International applicants must meet English language requirements (typically IELTS 7.0 with no component below 6.5 ).
• Those with experience in law enforcement, probation services, or forensic mental health are encouraged to apply.
• Non-graduates with substantial professional experience in criminal justice or social care may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

All applications are subject to university approval.

Career Prospects: Unlock Specialist Roles in Forensic Psychology

An MSc in Psychology of Forensic & Criminal Behaviour opens doors to meaningful careers across a variety of sectors, including:

• Forensic Psychologist – Assessing and supporting offenders in prisons, secure hospitals, or community settings.
• Criminal Profiler or Investigative Analyst – Supporting law enforcement with behavioural insights and case linkage.
• Offender Rehabilitation Officer – Designing and delivering treatment programmes for high-risk individuals.
• Victim Support Specialist – Providing trauma recovery and advocacy for victims of serious crimes.
• Court Consultant or Expert Witness – Offering psychological assessments during legal proceedings.
• Academic Researcher or PhD Candidate – Contributing to studies in criminal psychology, offender behaviour, or legal psychology.

Graduates have gone on to successful roles in the Metropolitan Police, Ministry of Justice, NHS forensic units, private forensic consultancies, and academic institutions .

With its strong emphasis on applied psychology, legal systems, and criminal behaviour, this qualification significantly enhances your credibility and employability in today’s evolving justice and mental health landscape.

Start Your Journey Toward a Career in Forensic Psychology Today

Whether you’re looking to formalise your passion for criminal psychology, transition into a forensic role, or prepare for Chartered Psychologist status, the MSc Psychology of Forensic & Criminal Behaviour gives you the strategic insight and practical tools you need to succeed.

Apply now and take the next step toward becoming a licensed forensic psychologist in the UK.