Master of Science - Forensic Psychology

This course is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS). It draws on Kingston University's established expertise in psychology and criminology.

Students will be taught by research-active staff with special interests ranging from intimate partner violence, forensic mental health, and detection of deception. Students will also benefit from the close links that Kingston staff have with forensic settings located in London and the surrounding area.

Students will study the application of psychology in various forensic settings and be introduced to the role of the forensic psychologist. They will examine the legal aspects of forensic psychology (e.g. courts and sentencing) and factors that may lead to criminal behaviour.

Students' work placement will last at least 15 weeks (two days a week). Settings include secure hospitals, children's homes, and youth offending teams. Alternatively, they may be offered a research placement reflecting their area of interest. Students will have one-on-one supervision for their placement and dissertation.

On successful completion of the course, students may continue their training to become a chartered forensic psychologist, or pursue a career in sectors such as the prison and probation services, crime analysis or education. Students have gone on to further training in forensic and clinical psychology after having obtained posts as assistant psychologists in forensic settings. Students have also gained employment in a variety of organisations including children's services, charities and other destinations in the criminal justice system.