MSc Forensic and Investigative Psychology

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Liverpool John Moores University

Program Overview

The MSc Forensic & Investigative Psychology at Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) prepares students to apply psychological science in criminal, legal, and investigative settings, focusing on assessment, intervention, and consultancy. It is suited for graduates who want to work in forensic contexts—such as police, prisons, courts, or research—or who intend to pursue advanced forensic psychology training.

Curriculum structure:
During the year, students build methodological expertise in Advanced Research Methods in Forensic and Investigative Psychology, learning how to design, analyse, and ethically conduct complex research in sensitive areas. They deepen their practical and theoretical understanding through Forensic and Investigative Psychology in Civil and Criminal Cases, Forensic Assessment & Intervention, and Forensic Consultancy & Reflective Practice, examining how forensic psychologists contribute to legal cases, risk management, and system-level consultancy. In Theory, Personality & Mental Health in Forensic Psychology, learners explore how personality traits and mental illness intersect with offending behaviour. The programme culminates in a 60-credit Empirical Project, where students conduct independent research into a forensic or investigative topic of their choice.

Focus areas:
“offender assessment; investigative psychology; intervention design; consultancy; research methods; mental health in crime”

Learning outcomes:
Graduates will be able to apply forensic theory in assessment and intervention, conduct rigorous mixed-methods research, reflect on professional ethical practice, and contribute effectively as consultants in criminal justice settings.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
The course supports progression toward chartered forensic psychology status; it covers core skills in assessment, risk, and legal-relevant psychology but additional stage 2 training is required for full practitioner qualification.

Reputation (employability rankings):
LJMU reports high employability—94% of postgraduates are in work or further study within 15 months—and this MSc’s applied focus helps graduates gain roles in policing, probation, consultancy, and research.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students develop practical investigative skills through hands-on projects using LJMU's specialist forensic facilities. They have access to crime scene simulation environments and investigative psychology resources. The programme's experiential components include:

Crime Scene Facilities: Access to simulated crime scene environments
Investigative Research Project: A dissertation in forensic or investigative psychology
Interview Training: Development of investigative interviewing techniques
Case Analysis: Practical experience with offender profiling and crime linkage methods
Professional Context: Training in police and investigative agency procedures

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Liverpool John Moores University’s MSc Forensic and Investigative Psychology are well-prepared for careers including Forensic Psychologist Trainee, Criminal Justice Researcher, Probation Officer, and Victim Support Worker. The program balances forensic psychology theory and investigative skills with practical research, aiding career versatility in criminal justice and mental health sectors.

University employability services provide targeted career mentoring, mock interviews, CV workshops, and practitioner guest lectures from forensic and mental health organisations.
LJMU reports a 96% graduate employment or further study rate within six months, with salaries ranging between £24,000 and £38,000 depending on role.
Partnerships include collaborations with the National Crime Agency, local police forces, probation services, and mental health charities supporting placements and networking.
The MSc is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), supporting progression towards Chartered Psychologist status.
Graduates develop expertise in offender behaviour analysis, forensic assessment, psychological intervention, and consultancy skills.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates often pursue doctoral training in forensic psychology or related PhD research to enhance professional qualifications.