Clinical Forensic Psychology

Designed to give psychologists the advanced knowledge and skills to conduct clinical work in forensic psychology, with an emphasis on evidence-based and reflective practice. Students have exceptional opportunities for clinical and research training while on the programme, building on intensive and wide-ranging theoretical teaching from a distinguished multi-disciplinary team.

This MSc programme offers students the theoretical and research grounding needed for a career as a chartered forensic psychologist. It also provides clinical forensic experience to help students proceed to the next stage of their careers in this demanding field.  We believe this to be the only MSc programme in the UK which focuses on the clinical aspects of forensic psychology.

The placement is a distinctive feature of this programme. On enrolment, students are allocated to a clinical forensic placement which they attend for 75 days throughout the year, ie two days a week. Placements have been arranged at a range of settings, including Broadmoor Hospital and in medium/low secure units in various locations in London, Surrey, Sussex and Kent. Students work on a research project which is usually supervised by the Placement Supervisor or a placement colleague.

All other teaching is at the Institute of Psychiatry, and includes training on assessment and treatment of mentally disordered offenders and on actuarial risk assessment tools (HCR-20 and PCL:SV). Throughout the programme there is an emphasis on the clinical relevance of research findings. Much teaching is provided by practising clinicians.