| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-03-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Master of Psychology (Forensic) program at UNSW combines clinical, research, and legal expertise for careers in the legal system. Students engage in coursework on forensic assessment, law, and ethics, complete 100 hours of professional practice, and conduct a research thesis in forensic psychology. Graduates are equipped to work in diverse settings, including prisons, courts, and child protection agencies.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Psychology (Forensic) integrates clinical, research, and legal skills for work in the legal system. Leading educators will guide you through assessment, law, and ethical practice. Graduate with a research thesis and 100 hours of professional practice.
Outline:
- Coursework:
- Applications of Forensic Psychology
- Professional and Ethical Practice (Forensic) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
- Assessment in Forensic Psychology
- Forensic Interventions 1, 2
- Law for Psychologists 1, 2
- Experimental Psychology and Law
- Research Thesis (Forensic) 1, 2, 3
- Professional Practice:
- Minimum of 1,000 practicum hours completed in three placements across various settings, both internally (UNSW Forensic Psychology Clinic) and externally (forensic agencies and organizations).
- Research Thesis:
- Empirical project carried out in any area relevant to forensic psychology, with the potential for data collection in forensic settings or exploring the responses of the general population to forensic issues.
Careers:
Forensic psychologists can work in a wide range of settings, including prisons, courts, police, probation and parole, juvenile justice, public policy, insurance, community services, and child protection.
University of New South Wales, Sydney
Overview:
The University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney is a leading public research university located in Sydney, Australia. It is renowned for its academic excellence and is consistently ranked among the top universities in Australia and globally.
Services Offered:
UNSW Sydney offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Study Options:
Undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, short courses, online programs, professional development opportunities, and Higher Degree Research.Campus Experience:
A vibrant campus environment with various facilities, including accommodation, student support services, and a comprehensive library.Support Services:
Academic advising, career counseling, financial aid, and mental health resources.International Student Support:
Dedicated services for international students, including visa assistance, cultural orientation, and English language programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
UNSW Sydney provides a dynamic and engaging campus experience for its students. The university boasts a diverse student body, a wide range of clubs and societies, and numerous social and cultural events throughout the year. Students can enjoy a vibrant campus life with opportunities to connect with peers, explore their interests, and develop their skills.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
UNSW Sydney is recognized for its high-quality academic programs and world-class research.Global Reputation:
The university consistently ranks among the top universities in Australia and internationally.Research Opportunities:
Students have access to cutting-edge research facilities and opportunities to work alongside leading researchers.Career Development:
UNSW Sydney provides strong career support services and connections with industry partners.Vibrant Campus Life:
The university offers a diverse and engaging campus environment with numerous opportunities for student involvement.Academic Programs:
UNSW Sydney offers a wide range of academic programs across its eight faculties:
- Arts, Design & Architecture
- Business School
- Engineering
- Law & Justice
- Medicine & Health
- Science
- UNSW Canberra
The university is particularly known for its strengths in engineering, business, medicine, and science.
Entry Requirements:
- The minimum academic eligibility requirement is completion of a four-year APAC-accredited sequence in psychology, including a major research thesis/project, with Upper-Second Class Honours (75%), or international equivalent. Qualifications must have been completed within the last 10 years (exceptions may be possible in limited circumstances).
- Psychology qualifications from overseas must include a major research thesis/project and must be assessed by the Australian Psychological Society (APS) as equivalent to a four-year APAC-accredited sequence in psychology completed in Australia. Please note you must have your qualification assessed before you apply.
- As the number of places available each year is limited, entry into the program is competitive. Selection is based on academic qualifications, two referee reports and performance at an assessment centre. Only shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend the assessment centre, which must be attended in person at UNSW (Kensington campus).
- Although work experience is not an admission requirement, applicants with a history of employment will be positively regarded, even if the employment is not necessarily clinically or forensically relevant.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
Applicants must:
- demonstrate their competency in speaking and communicating in English is sufficient to practise the psychology profession
- satisfy both UNSW's English language requirements and those required by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). All applicants, domestic and international, are encouraged to use AHPRA’s Pathways diagram for all professions (under ‘Additional resources’) to guide their understanding of AHPRA’s requirements.
