COURSE CURRICULUM

The MSc Psychology course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of psychological theories, research methods, and their applications in forensic and criminal justice contexts. A key component of the course is the 60-credit Psychology Project, where students design, conduct, and evaluate an independent empirical research project, engage in literature review, and develop academic and professional presentation skills. The Core Research Methods and Analyses module equips students with a solid foundation in qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method research, emphasizing ethical and effective research practices. Several specialist modules explore the intersection of psychology and the criminal justice system. Development of Delinquency and Psychopathy examines the complex factors influencing criminal behavior across the lifespan, using insights from developmental psychology, psychiatry, and criminology. Psychology and the Criminal Justice System introduces students to the structure and operation of the legal system in England and Wales, emphasizing the role of various institutions such as the police and courts. The Criminal Minds module focuses on psychological explanations for specific offenses and offender types, drawing on core theories and empirical studies. The Psychology of Desistance and Reintegration explores why individuals cease offending, analyzing desistance narratives and examining the effectiveness of reintegration strategies. In Forensic Assessment, students receive practical training in administering and interpreting various risk assessment tools, including second and third-generation instruments used in forensic evaluations. The Mental Health in Criminal and Forensic Contexts module investigates the relationship between mental disorders and criminal behavior, highlighting the prevalence and complexity of mental health issues among offenders. Collectively, the course offers a multidisciplinary perspective, integrating psychological science with real-world applications in forensic and criminal justice settings. Students develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing them for research roles, applied forensic work, or further academic study in psychology or criminology-related fields.