MSc Forensic Psychology
Delivery & Mode of Study
Language of Instruction
Credits
Factsheet
Introduction
The MSc Forensic Psychology is a unique programme designed to prepare students for numerous diverse or specific careers within the general context of the Criminal Justice System. The programme is built around the fundamental theoretical, methodological and applied areas of Forensic Psychology.
In terms of the programme philosophy, the MSc Forensic Psychology reflects the academic skills underpinning the application of psychology to a forensic setting. It provides a strong emphasis on the application of Forensic Psychology in professional practice and how theoretical concepts are applied.
Furthermore, the programme attends to victims and offenders. With regard to the latter, it follows the progression of an offender from their first contact with the criminal justice system until their eventual release into the community and/or transfer to conditions of less security. Attention is given to the victim and pre-trial issues (including civil justice). The role of on-going assessment, intervention and through-care are emphasised throughout the curriculum.
To foster professional growth, the programme places a strong emphasis upon developing professional report writing and presentation skills, methodological rigour, research expertise, independent learning and critical thinking. To facilitate this, students will be exposed to a learning and research environment that is rich in mentoring opportunities from members of the programme team with academic and/or practical forensic experience.
Within the programme, students holding an undergraduate degree in Psychology have the option to take the practical experience module, which includes 1000 hours of supervised practical training.
Career Opportunities
The course covers a range of forensic psychology topics and allows candidates to strengthen the knowledge and skills that are essential for becoming Certified Forensic Psychologists. The course has been specifically designed to reflect the academic skills required to apply psychology to a forensic setting, including universities, prisons, secure hospitals, probation, police services and the courts. Overall, the course can prepare students for numerous diverse or specific careers in the public as well as the private sector. It provides graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue careers within the general context of the Criminal Justice System. Students who complete the practical experience module (1000 hours of supervised training) will be able to become registered Forensic Psychologists and practise the profession in Cyprus.
Forensic Psychologist
Focus: Assessing and diagnosing individuals involved in the criminal justice system, providing expert testimony, and developing treatment plans for offenders.
Criminal Behavior Analyst
Focus: Investigating the psychological aspects of criminal behavior, conducting risk assessments, and helping law enforcement agencies understand criminal motives.
Victim Support Specialist
Focus: Working with crime victims, providing psychological support, and guiding them through the legal process.
Expert Witness in Legal Cases
Focus: Providing psychological evaluations and testimony in court cases involving criminal behavior, custody disputes, or mental health issues.
Course Benefits
Expert Knowledge in Forensic Psychology
The programme provides an in-depth understanding of psychological theory and practice as applied to legal and criminal justice contexts, preparing students for complex roles in forensic settings.
Hands-On Experience & Practical Training
Students gain practical experience through real-world case studies, internships, and research projects, allowing them to apply their academic learning to actual forensic and legal scenarios.
Accreditation and Professional Recognition
The programme is designed to meet the standards of professional bodies such as the British Psychological Society (BPS), offering a pathway toward becoming a Chartered Forensic Psychologist.
Specialized Research Opportunities
Students can engage in advanced research projects focusing on criminal behavior, legal processes, offender rehabilitation, and victimology, contributing to the growing body of forensic psychological knowledge.
Access to Expert Faculty and Industry Networks
The programme is taught by experienced academics and professionals, with opportunities to connect with forensic psychologists, law enforcement, and legal professionals, enhancing career prospects and networking opportunities.
Diverse Career Paths in Forensic Psychology
Graduates can pursue careers in criminal justice, law enforcement, rehabilitation, victim support, and private consultancy, with skills applicable to a wide range of sectors involving legal and psychological services.
Course Visual Content
Programme Modules
Learning Outcomes
A1. Identify, explore and critically evaluate psychological theories pertaining to criminal behaviour and the application of psychology to the legal system.
A2. Demonstrate application of psychological theory to forensic psychology including professional practice and working with specific client groups (both treatment and assessment).
A3. Demonstrate application of the role of ethics and professional standards within the discipline.
A4. Use a wide range of methodological and statistical techniques currently employed in the discipline
B1. Apply skills to future professional practice, under supervision such as writing and presenting professional reports, conducting a risk assessment and applying motivational techniques to report writing.
B2. Use statistical software packages (e.g. SPSS) competently and apply these to a research question, with enhanced critical evaluation skill and application of relevant theory.
C1. Explore, critically evaluate and integrate information from the research literature in a purposeful way.
C2. Formulate hypotheses and plan research in a systematic and meaningful way.
C3. Demonstrate a technical and critical knowledge of issues in research design and analysis.
C4. Interpret and present statistical tests appropriately, and communicate these effectively in written reports.
D1. Demonstrate skills in the areas of communication (oral and written) and organization.
Entry Requirements
The minimum entry requirements for this programme are:
Requirement 1
Bachelor's degree, with at least Lower Second Class grade or equivalent. For the students who want to register to the Practical Year 2 of the programme, their Bachelor's degree must be in Psychology or related subject to be accepted.
Requirement 2
Proof of English Language knowledge to a score of at least IELTS 6.5, or other equivalent according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Academic Faculty
Dr Lilia Psalta
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR IN PSYCHOLOGY AND COURSE LEADER OF MSC FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGYLEARN MORE
Dr Vasiliki Christodoulou
Assistant Professor in PsychologyDeputy Course Leader of MSc Forensic Psychology
LEARN MORE
Dr Demetra Loizou
Course Leader of Master of Laws LLM, Lecturer in International Criminal Law and Humanitarian LawLEARN MORE
How To Apply?
Step by Step Application Process.
Complete the UCLan Cyprus application FORM.
Provide copies of:
– School Leaving Certificate & Marksheet
– Bachelor’s Degree & Transcript
– English Language Qualification (see Entry Requirements)
– CV & Personal Statement
– 2 Reference Letters
– ID/Passport
Payment of €50 application fee (non-refundable) for the Admissions Department to officially evaluate your application and if successful to receive your Offer for a Place to Study at UCLan Cyprus.
APPLY NOW * International Applicants: once you receive your Offer Letter, you will proceed to the Visa Application Steps. Find more information here.Quick Links
Student Stories
School of Sciences
I am very glad that I transferred my studies to UCLan Cyprus and I am satisfied with both my lecturers and my overall study experience. Also I am so grateful for the way the student support assisted me whenever I needed their help to make this dream a reality
Artem Plakhotuyuk
BSc (Hons) ComputingSchool of Sciences
The academics are very experienced, also in the professional field, which is very important. The practical nature of the curriculum and the opportunities that you have to work on different projects and research studies help you get into what you will work in the future. I believe that with the experience and the skills that I gained through UCLan Cyprus, I will be part of the technology of tomorrow.
Alberto Bullo
MSc ComputingSchool of Sciences
I finished my Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics & Statistics at UCLan Cyprus, and I continued with my postgraduate degree at Data Analtycis at UCLan Cyprus, This gave me the opportunity to be employed at the audit firm KPMG, Data Analytics combines statistics and programming, which both are on fire now in the market. I have discussed with the professor of the programme, at the university, and I realised that this has significant prospects for career and progression.
Kalia Athanasiou
MSc Data AnalyticsSchool of Sciences
Currently, I am working as a software engineer. During my studies, I learned the foundational principles of engineering and analytical thinking. Practical experience in my final year of study equipped me with invaluable problem-solving skills that have proved crucial for the beginning of my professional journey.
Kristina Telegraph
BEng (Hons) Electrical & Electronic EngineeringSchool of Sciences
My bachelor’s degree helped me succeed in understanding the fundamental principles of Electrical and Electronic Engineering. During my studies, I learned to design and analyse circuits, gain proficiency in programming languages, and develop problem-solving skills, which are crucial for my current role. Practical experience from the first year of study helped me apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. The hands-on projects in the laboratories also enhanced my ability to troubleshoot and innovate, helping me build a strong foundation for my career in research. Being eligible to register with ETEK (Cyprus Technical and Scientific Chamber) benefited me in terms of professional development and opportunities. It provided me with a platform to stay updated with industry standards, network with professionals, and access resources that contribute to my growth in the field of AI and data analysis.
Spiros Millas
BEng (Hons) Electrical & Electronic EngineeringSchool of Sciences
I graduated from UCLan Cyprus with a BEng (Hons) in Electrical & Electronic Engineering. I am currently working as an Electrical Engineer. In this role my responsibilities include designing and optimising solar power systems, conducting feasibility studies, and implementing innovative solutions to improve energy efficiency. the BEng (Hons) in Electrical & Electronic Engineering helped me succeed in my current role by providing a solid foundation in theoretical concepts and practical skills, relevant to the field.
Nearchos Papaxenopoulos
BEng (Hons) Electrical & Electronic EngineeringSchool of Sciences
I finished my Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics & Statistics at UCLan Cyprus, and I continued with my postgraduate degree at Data Analtycis at UCLan Cyprus, This gave me the opportunity to be employed at the audit firm KPMG, Data Analytics combines statistics and programming, which both are on fire now in the market. I have discussed with the professor of the programme, at the university, and I realised that this has significant prospects for career and progression.
Kalia Athanasiou
BSc (Hons) Mathematics & StatisticsSchool of Sciences
It is with great joy that I embark on this new chapter of my life at UCLan Cyprus, which has opened its doors to me, giving me the opportunity to study in the BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Science programme. I would like to thank the management and academic staff for their excellent cooperation, and I am confident that both I and the university will gain many benefits from this long journey.
Elias Georgiou
BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise ScienceSchool of Sciences
After conducting a research about the different universities in Cyprus, I decided to come to UCLan Cyprus for many reasons, mainly for the double – awarded degree, one from Cyprus and one from the UK, which gives a global scope compared to completing a programme in Greek, which could limit me to Cyprus and Greece. During my studies, I succeeded in thinking more scientifically. My professors played a huge role in my development, and in helping me with studies because they were always by our side and are excellent scientists. In the University’s Sports Lab, we had the tremendous opportunity to work with high-level atheletes, and had the opportunity to analyse our data based on our state-of-the-art equipment.
Christos Xennofontos
BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise ScienceSchool of Sciences
At UCLan Cyprus, we stay ahead of the curve in Computer Science by embracing cutting-edge technologies, innovative research, and hands-on practice with industry-standard tools that shape the future of the digital world.
Giorgos Lazari
BSc (Hons) ComputingSchool of Sciences
UCLan Cyprus was my first choice because it is the only British University in Cyprus I was surprised with the modern facilities and the learning environment I am really enjoying my time here and would suggest anyone looking for higher education to opt for UCLan Cyprus.
Vanja Popovic, Serbian
BSc (Hons) ComputingSchool of Sciences
I chose UCLan Cyprus for its excellent facilities and the friendly environment I found at the University.
Andreas Makris
BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise ScienceSchool of Sciences
I chose to study BSc in Computing at UCLan Cyprus, specialization in Computer Games Development as I look forward to working in this area in the future
John Hassapis
BSc (Hons) ComputingSchool of Sciences
I chose UCLan Cyprus because of the high standards of education it offers, as well as the low tuition fees, which is very important to consider. Moreover, the university has up-to-date facilities, and the courses are taught in English, providing a universal way of learning and using vocabulary that is recognized worldwide. Lastly, an important factor for me is that the university is located in my district.
Giannis Parpounas
BSc (Hons) ComputingSchool of Sciences
There are many reasons for that, but I believe the number one reason is the financial factor! I was accepted by a university in Greece, but I always wanted to stay in Cyprus, so UCLan Cyprus gave me that opportunity.
Kyriakos Trikos
BSc (Hons) ComputingRequest More Information
Other School Programmes
Study With Us
