Forensic Psychology Practice Postgraduate Diploma - Psychology

Program Overview

The Forensic Psychology Practice Postgraduate Diploma is an online program that combines theoretical knowledge with practice-based learning to prepare students for registration as forensic psychologists in the UK. The program covers essential topics such as case formulation, risk assessment, and ethical considerations, and culminates in a practice portfolio demonstrating competencies in research, intervention, and training. Students are supervised by registered forensic psychologists and have opportunities to engage with professionals in the criminal justice sector.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Forensic Psychology Practice Postgraduate Diploma is a unique online program that combines online teaching with practice-based learning and independent study. It is designed for individuals who hold a BPS-accredited MSc in Forensic Psychology (Stage 1) and are seeking to become registered forensic psychologists in the UK. The program aims to train students to be both the 'scientist' and the 'practitioner' by developing their advanced understanding and independent judgment of psychological perspectives, theories, policy, and practices relevant to criminal behavior. It also aims to help students become critically aware of issues at the forefront of forensic psychology and encourage their enquiring, analytical, and creative skills.

Outline:

The program consists of eight modules: six core 10-credit modules and two 30-credit modules. Students will study three 10-credit modules and one 30-credit module in each year, applying their learning to practice.

Core Modules:

• Applied Critical Thinking and Self Reflection: This module recognizes the diverse ways in which the various concepts studied relate to wider theories in forensic settings.
It aims to develop critical thought and self-reflection. Through critical evaluation, students will learn to develop original ideas relevant to practice. In addition, through case study analysis, students will identify and evaluate factors that may impact particular situations.
• Consultancy in Forensic Psychology: This module focuses on the skills and knowledge required to provide effective consultancy services in forensic settings.
Students will learn about the different types of consultancy work, the ethical considerations involved, and the practical skills needed to conduct successful consultations. Students will learn about the different types of interventions that are used in these settings, as well as the challenges and opportunities associated with working in these environments.
• Teaching and Training Others: This module focuses on the skills and knowledge required to teach and train others in forensic psychology.
Students will learn about different teaching methods, how to design effective training programs, and how to assess the effectiveness of training.
• Professional Practice Portfolio: This module provides students with the opportunity to develop a portfolio of their professional practice.
Students will be required to collect evidence of their work in different forensic settings, as well as reflect on their learning and development.
• Professional Practice and Professional Ethical Standards: This module focuses on the ethical standards that govern the practice of forensic psychology.
• Research, Ethical Considerations and Dissemination: This module provides an overview of research methods in forensic psychology.
Students will learn about the different types of research that are conducted in this field, as well as the ethical considerations involved in conducting research.
• Forensic Case Formulation and Risk Assessment: Short Version: This module focuses on the skills and knowledge required to conduct forensic case formulations and risk assessments.
Students will learn about the different models of case formulation and risk assessment, as well as the practical implications of these models for their work.

Assessment:

The program is assessed through coursework. There will be assessments for each module that count towards the final qualification ('summative assessments'), which may include:

• Essays
• Case studies
• Presentations including research-style posters
• Research reports
• A reflective portfolio
• A learning and development log
At the end of the program, each assessment will contribute to the final practice portfolio.

Teaching:

The program is delivered entirely online, allowing students to study virtually from any location and have the flexibility to fit their studies around their work. Students will engage in all course materials and live sessions through the virtual learning environment, which is easy to use and offers a highly interactive study experience. Teaching methods include:

• Discussion boards, which enable students to discuss a particular topic with fellow students and tutors
• Guest lectures delivered by industry specialists or alumni, which will provide students with current insights (subject to change and availability)
• Students' own online study and research, which they can choose to do at times that suit them
• Hands-on experience gained on their placement

Careers:

Upon successful completion of the program, students will be eligible to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and, if granted, will be able to practice as a forensic psychologist in the UK. The largest employers of registered forensic psychologists in the UK are Her Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) and the National Health Service (NHS). However, forensic psychologists can also work in rehabilitation units, private secure hospitals, social services, the police, local and central government, and academia. Alternatively, students could choose to use their qualification to pursue an academic or research career, for example by working as a research assistant or associate, or by taking their studies to the next level with a PhD.

Other:

• The program requires students to undertake and evidence a total of 360 days of supervised practice-based work experience to develop competencies in four key areas:
• Research: 90 days
• Conducting psychological applications and interventions: 90 days
• Communicating psychological knowledge and advice to other professionals: 90 days
• Training other professionals in psychological skills and knowledge: 90 days
• Students will be provided with an Academic Supervisor who will help them meet the academic requirements of the program and support them to apply the academic learning to their practice setting.
They will be a HCPC registered Forensic Psychologist.
• Students will also need a Clinical Supervisor, who will be based within their workplace or placement setting.
They will be a HCPC registered Forensic Psychologist, with at least two years’ experience post-qualification. They will provide students with suitable practice opportunities and help them make sense of their learning experiences.
• The program is taught by a team of enthusiastic and experienced lecturers who are experts in their fields, including chartered psychologists and registered forensic psychologists.
• The staff are involved in internationally renowned research that is helping to shape understanding and practice across the criminal justice sector.
They have expertise in topics such as psychopathy, sex offending, domestic violence, stalking, and personality disorders. As a result, teaching sessions will often feature the latest thinking and contemporary materials.
• The University has strong links with a wide range of criminal and community justice agencies including the police, probation services, prisons, youth justice, courts, and victim support organizations.
This means students might hear guest lectures from some of these organizations, or they might be able to undertake research projects with them.

UK fee: £6,300 (2024/25) International fee: £6,300 (2024/25)