Forensic Mental Health Studies MSc/PG Diploma/PG Certificate

Summary

This programme is designed for experienced professionals working in forensic mental health and those who are aspiring to work with mentally disordered offenders or patients who require similar services. It provides students with: knowledge of the diverse needs of mentally disordered offenders; an in-depth understanding of service provision for this group; skills in promoting empowerment and quality of life of service users; and an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of relevant agencies and disciplines. 

Key facts

Type of Course: Taught, continuing professional development

Duration: MSc – 1 year full-time (2 afternoons per week), 2 years part-time (1 afternoon per week)

Start date: October; applications must be made as early as possible

Entry requirements

A relevant first degree (2:1 or equivalent) or an appropriate professional qualification at sub-degree level and experience of working with mentally disordered clients.

Learn more about entry requirements

International students
We accept a range of qualifications from different countries – learn more about international entry requirements 

Standard English language requirements apply

IELTS - 7.0. overall with no less than 6.5 in any band.

TOEFL - Internet based 100 overall with no less than 23 in any band.

Contact details

Mrs Angela Oakley
Tel: +44 (0)121 678 3088
Email: forensic@contacts.bham.ac.uk

How to apply

When clicking on the Apply Now button you will be directed to an application specifically designed for the programme you wish to apply for where you will create an account with the University application system and submit your application and supporting documents online. Further information regarding how to apply online can be found on the How to apply pages

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Fees and funding

2012/13 course fees
UK/EU students
MSc £4950 / PG Dip £3300 / PG Cert £1650

Non UK/EU students
Full - time £16,200 

Learn more about fees and funding

Scholarships and studentships 
Scholarships may be available. International students can often gain funding through overseas research scholarships, Commonwealth scholarships or their home government.

For further information contact the School directly or email sfo@contacts.bham.ac.uk

Programme overview

This programme is designed for experienced professionals working in forensic mental health and those who are aspiring to work with mentally disordered offenders or patients who require similar services. It provides you  with:

  • Knowledge of the diverse needs of mentally disordered offenders
  • An in-depth understanding of service provision and development for mentally disordered individuals at various stages in the criminal justice system
  • Skills in promoting empowerment and quality of life of service users
  • The ability to critically evaluate theory and practice
  • An understanding of the roles and responsibilities of different agencies and disciplines involved in the care of mentally disordered offenders

Lectures are held at Reaside Clinic in South Birmingham and at the University of Birmingham on one afternoon a week (part-time) and two afternoons a week (full-time).

On completion of the Forensic Mental Health Studies Masters course you will have gained:

  • an understanding of the spectrum of care facilities required in relation to mentally disordered offenders and others who require similar services 
  • a comprehensive knowledge of assessment and treatment interventions available at various stages of the criminal justice system.
  • an understanding of the principles of mental health legislation and specifically practical application of the law in the care of mentally ill individuals within the criminal justice system and on transfer to health service care 
  • a knowledge of ethical and policy issues involved in providing services for mentally disordered offenders 
  • the ability to appraise and organise research in the workplace and apply findings that are practical, as well as at a theoretical level.

You are able to combine modules from parallel courses; treatment of substance misuse and clinical neuroscience and the course leads to a Master of Science Degree after the completion of all assignments and the dissertation, or a Postgraduate Diploma for the completion of the assignments alone.

The course involves inter-disciplinary learning in small group settings along with personal tutorials with course organisers. You are encouraged to contribute directly to planning the course content and required to continuously evaluate the taught modules. In addition, student representatives are elected to the course advisory panel.

Related links

School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine website: www.clinexpmed.bham.ac.uk  

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Modules

All modules are compulsory

Assessment

The Forensic Mental Health Studies Masters course assesses ability through practical assignments and a dissertation of 15,000 words based on original research.