Forensic Psychology MSc

Build skills in evaluating evidence, applying psychological theory to forensic questions and communicating findings to professional audiences. Prepare for research, psychologically informed roles or further study through advanced study of offending, assessment, rehabilitation and psychology within criminal justice.

Course structure

Study four compulsory taught modules and complete a substantial research project, combining forensic knowledge with research skills. Full-time and part-time study are available, with part-time students completing their research project in Year 2.

Shared teaching offers opportunities to learn alongside doctoral trainees, while MSc activities develop academic knowledge without requiring a placement or direct client work. The programme also includes teaching on ethical issues, diversity and reflective practice.

• Apply psychological evidence to forensic and criminal justice questions.
• Develop formulation and report-writing skills using supplied case material.
• Expand your professional network through shared teaching with forensic psychology doctoral trainees.
• Complete a substantial, supervised research project relevant to forensic psychology.

Our teaching draws on Birmingham’s established Forensic Psychology Practice Doctorate.

• A Range of Teaching – Lectures and guided reading examine psychological theories, research evidence and their application to forensic and legal contexts.
  
  
• Variety of Workshops – Interactive workshops and supplied case material help you apply theory, explore formulation and develop professional communication skills.
  
  
• Digital Resources and Teaching – Self-paced digital learning and research-methods workshops develop your understanding of quantitative and qualitative research, analysis and research ethics.
  
  
• Support from Academic Supervisor – Supervision supports you in designing and completing an empirical research project, dissertation and presentation.

Please see a list of some compulsory modules:

Theory and Assessment in Forensic Psychology — 30 credits.
Forensic Psychotherapy and Rehabilitation — 30 credits.
Psychology, Law Enforcement, and the Courts — 30 credits.
Research and Case Study Methods in Forensic Psychology — 30 credits.
MSc Research Project — 60 credits, with a forensic-psychology focus.

Please note, modules are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

The optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.

The course is open only to psychology graduates who are registered with the BPS and who have the Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC status). Candidates will also need to have some prior experience of working in a forensic setting.

Equal opportunities

We are very conscious of being situated in an area of rich ethnic and cultural diversity, and the course particularly welcomes applications from people from ethnic minority groups. We take measures to ensure that no applicant is discriminated against on the grounds of age, social class, disability, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation or religion.

We are actively addressing issues of race and diversity in the curriculum and in all aspects of the course. We do not currently use equal opportunities data during the selection process, however, we are actively considering how best to include contextual admissions values in our selection procedures, and although we don’t yet have a formal position on this, we will update this webpage with any developments.

Please note that if you have given your consent, we may use equal opportunities data collected by the University during selection to inform future selection strategies.

English language requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.

For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:

• TOEFL iBT taken before January 2026: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
• TOEFL iBT taken from January 2026: 4.5 Overall with no less than 4.5 in any 2 skills and 4 in the other two skills
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
• LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill

English presessional programmes

If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September including additional online courses in the summer term.  Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.

We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2027 entry are above.

The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.

Paying your tuition fees

Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.

Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.

A limited number of scholarships and studentships may be available to outstanding applicants. For further information, please explore our scholarships and funding database.

We have put together some helpful information on the taught programme application process and supporting documents. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.

Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one to one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.

Careers Support

At Birmingham, we prepare our researchers to make an impact across every sector of society. Our PhD graduates are global change-makers: advancing knowledge, shaping policy, leading industries, and educating future generations.

You'll benefit from dedicated careers support tailored to your unique paths. Our expert team of Careers Advisers, including a dedicated postgraduate research adviser, offer one-to-one guidance to help researchers navigate career decisions both within and beyond academia.

Whatever you plan to do after your degree, Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one to one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters.

We also offer subject specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.

Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.