Forensic Psychology

Entry requirements

To be considered for this Masters degree you will need:

• 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.

Months of entry

September

Course content

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.

Your Forensic Psychology experience

Based in the School of Psychology, the programme uses a blended learning approach to develop your knowledge and skills. This includes online learning, seminars, group work and workshops. Your assignments are based on ‘real world’ activities forensic psychologists engage in (e.g. writing reports, policies and information leaflets, presenting to peers).

Many of our academic staff are leaders in their specialist fields of research, including: investigative psychology, eye witness memory and testimony, assessing psychological vulnerability during police interviewing and forensic mental health services.

We support you to seek out relevant work placements and voluntary experience through local services and the university Discovery centre. We also provide opportunities for you to complete the Swansea Employability Academy’s Career Development Course. Together these can enhance your employment prospects.

Information for international students

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.