Course summary
This masters degree enables you to gain an advanced understanding of the fascinating area of forensic psychology, while enhancing your analytical and communication skills, and your research literacy. Taking a case-based approach where you examine real life criminal cases you'll learn about a broad range of topics relevant to forensic psychology. You'll develop an understanding of the relationship this field of research has with law enforcement, legal practice, policy, public opinion and the media. You'll also develop your critical analytical skills and your understanding of the principles driving different research methods. By completing this qualification you'll be able to source, select and review forensic psychological research independently, evaluate its relevance for complex real life issue/cases, assess its validity and clearly communicate your findings to a range of audiences. Key features of the course
- Provides professional development for careers where research literacy, analytic and communication skills are valued
- Experienced tutors and bespoke teaching materials provide an exploration of engaging topic areas and research
- Relevant for existing professionals or those with an interest in all areas of the UK criminal justice system and civil or social services.
Modules
To gain this qualification you’ll study two modules: Principles of social and psychological inquiry This online module aims to equip you with a range of critical research literacy skills that provide a crucial foundation for your continuing postgraduate studies within psychology and the social sciences. Investigating forensic psychology This online module uses real criminal cases to enhance your critical understanding of how forensic psychological knowledge contributes to the understanding and investigation of crime.
Entry requirements
You must hold a UK honours degree (2:2 at least) or equivalent to be accepted for the MSc in Forensic Psychological Studies. Your first degree need not be in forensic psychology or psychology, but you must have the skills expected of a social sciences graduate. All students will begin with the postgraduate module, Principles of social and psychological inquiry. This module will help equip you with the requisite skills needed to undertake postgraduate-level study, but it does not offer remedial training for those with an unsuitable bachelors degree or inadequate experience. This qualification has a required study order, so there is only one pathway. This provides you with the opportunity to study with a cohort of peers throughout, while modules and assessment build on one another systematically.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Additional fee information
As fees for individual modules can vary, the total cost you pay for your qualification depends on the modules you choose to study. For further information about fees, please refer to the course description on The Open University website.
Provider information
Open University
Student Recruitment Team
PO Box 197
Milton Keynes
MK7 6BJ