MSc Forensic and Investigative Psychology

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Canterbury Christ Church University

Program Overview

The MSc Forensic and Investigative Psychology offers advanced training in psychological theory and research as applied to criminal behaviour, investigative processes, and the justice system. It suits graduates seeking careers in forensic services, policing, criminal justice, or behavioural analysis, and covers offender behaviour, investigative decision-making, and forensic assessment.

Curriculum Structure:
In the first phase, students study Forensic Mental Health Assessment, Investigative Psychology, and Advanced Research Methods, developing an understanding of offender profiling, investigative biases, and clinical-forensic evaluation. They also take Legal and Criminal Justice Psychology, examining how psychology informs policing, court processes, and risk assessment. In the final stage, students complete a supervised Research Dissertation, allowing them to investigate an applied forensic or investigative psychology topic in depth.

Focus areas: “Investigative decision-making; offender behaviour; forensic assessment; policing and justice; applied research.”
Learning outcomes: “Ability to analyse criminal behaviour, apply psychological principles in investigative contexts, and conduct advanced forensic research.”
Professional alignment: Designed in line with current forensic and investigative practice standards and useful preparation for roles in police, probation, prisons, and forensic mental-health settings.
Reputation: Canterbury Christ Church University has recognised strengths in applied psychology and strong links with UK criminal-justice and investigative organisations.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students develop practical research skills through hands-on laboratory work and a major research project. They have access to the Department of Psychology's specialist facilities including EEG and eye-tracking equipment. The programme's experiential components include:

  • Research Project: A substantial independent empirical project

  • Laboratory Access: Use of EEG, eye-tracking and other research equipment

  • Software: Training in SPSS and other statistical packages

  • Technical Skills: Development of research design and data analysis capabilities

  • Practical Training: Hands-on experience with psychological research methods

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Forensic and Investigative Psychology at Canterbury Christ Church University develop strong theoretical and applied skills to work in forensic, criminal, and investigative psychology domains. Typical job roles include Forensic Psychologist (with further training), Crime Analyst, Probation Officer, and Research Assistant.

Key points:

  • The university offers careers services including mentorship, placement support, CV and interview workshops, and employer networking specific to forensic psychology.​

  • Graduate outcomes indicate high employability with many securing roles in criminal justice agencies, healthcare, and research; starting salaries usually range from £22,000 to £30,000 depending on the role and sector.

  • Strong industry partnerships with police forces, probation services, and forensic charities provide practical experience and networking opportunities.

  • The course is British Psychological Society (BPS) accredited, providing Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) vital for professional progression.​

  • Graduates show strong readiness for applied forensic roles and further professional or academic development.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates can advance to BPS Stage 2 training to become Chartered Forensic Psychologists or pursue PhD research in forensic psychology.

Program Key Stats

£TBD (Annual cost)
Sept Intake : 30th Jul


No
No

Eligibility Criteria

NA
3 or 4 Years

N/A
N/A
N/A
7.0
94
2:1

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Assistant Psychologist
  • Research Assistant
  • PhD Researcher
  • Mental Health Support Worker
  • Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (with further training)
  • HR Officer
  • Recruitment Consultant
  • Market Research Analyst
  • Data Analyst
  • Youth Worker

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