The MSc Forensic Psychology at Keele University provides specialist training in psychological theory and practice within legal, criminal justice, and forensic settings. It suits psychology graduates who want to work with offenders, victims, or organisations in criminal justice or pursue further academic research.
Curriculum Structure:
In the first (and only) year, students study Applied Psychological Research Methods (PSY-40163), building critical skills in both quantitative and qualitative research design.
Through Antisocial Behaviour Across the Lifespan (PSY-40167), they explore developmental and societal causes of criminal behaviour and how justice systems respond.
In Assessment, Formulation & Intervention in Forensic Psychology (PSY-40141), students learn how to assess offending behaviour, build psychological formulations, and design evidence-based interventions.
The Professional Practice in Forensic Psychology (PSY-40171) module gives students real-world experience via work placements, helping them integrate ethics, assessment, and applied skills.
Finally, students complete an Applied Research Dissertation (PSY-40169), carrying out independent research under supervisor guidance.
Focus areas:
“clinical assessment; intervention design; criminal behaviour across the lifespan; applied forensic practice; research methods”
Learning outcomes:
“conduct advanced forensic assessments, formulate behaviour scientifically, design interventions, apply practical forensic skills in real settings, and complete independent research in forensic psychology”
Professional alignment (accreditation):
The programme is currently seeking accreditation from the British Psychological Society (BPS).
Reputation (employability rankings):
Keele’s forensic psychology MSc links strongly with its Justice, Security & Institutional Change research group, and graduates commonly find roles in policing, probation, the NHS, or research.
Students develop practical forensic skills through hands-on research projects and engagement with professional practice. They utilise Keele's specialist facilities and have access to forensic psychology resources. The programme's experiential components include:
Research Project: A dissertation in forensic psychology
Facilities: Access to psychology research laboratories
Professional Training: Development of risk assessment and case formulation skills
Applied Focus: Training in forensic report writing and intervention techniques
Professional Insights: Teaching from practicing forensic psychologists
Graduates of the MSc Forensic Psychology at Keele University achieve strong outcomes for careers in forensic settings, working with offenders, victims, and legal organisations. Typical roles include Assistant Forensic Psychologist, Offending Behaviour Programme Facilitator, Forensic Support Worker, and Police Analyst. The program provides comprehensive training in forensic psychological theory, research methods, ethical practice, and real-world application via work-based placements.
Key employability and progression details:
Keele offers tailored career services including mentoring, work-based placements with criminal justice organisations, employer panel assessments, and professional development workshops.
Employment stats show approximately 93% of postgraduates secure relevant employment or further academic study within 15 months, with salaries competitive in forensic psychology and allied professions.
University partnerships with police forces, youth offending teams, social services, and academic institutions provide rich opportunities for practical learning and networking.
The course prepares students for BPS accreditation Stage 1 towards Chartered Forensic Psychologist status, adding long-term professional value.
Graduates report excellent development of applied research, intervention design, ethical judgement, and communication skills necessary for forensic psychology careers.
Further Academic Progression: Graduates typically proceed to Stage 2 doctoral training in forensic psychology to achieve chartered status, or pursue PhD research in forensic, clinical, or legal psychology.



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