Forensic Psychology

What do forensic psychologists do?

Forensic Psychology is devoted to psychological aspects of legal processes in courts. The term is also often used to refer to investigative and criminological psychology: applying psychological theory to criminal investigation, understanding psychological problems associated with criminal behaviour, and the treatment of criminals. Key tasks undertaken by forensic psychologists include piloting and implementing treatment programmes; modifying offender behaviour; responding to the changing needs of staff and prisoners; reducing stress for staff and prisoners; providing hard research evidence to support practice; undertaking statistical analysis for prisoner profiling; giving evidence in court; advising parole boards and mental health tribunals; crime analysis.

The largest single employer of forensic psychologists in the UK is HM Prison Service (which includes the Home Office Research and Development Unit as well as prisons). However, forensic psychologists can also be employed in the health service (including rehabilitation units and secure hospitals), the social service (including the police service, young offenders units, and the probation service), and in university departments or in private consultancy.

In the treatment of offenders, forensic psychologists are responsible for the development of appropriate programmes for rehabilitation. They may include anger management, social and cognitive skills training, and treatment for drug/and or alcohol addiction. In the support of prison staff, forensic psychologists may be responsible for the delivery of stress management or training on how to cope with understanding bullying, and techniques for hostage negotiation.

How do I become one?

• You will need to be eligible for the Graduate Basis for Registration (GBR)
• You will then need to go on to a Society accredited MSc in Forensic Psychology (1 year full time or 2 years part time), Or Stage 1 of the Society's Diploma in Forensic Psychology; plus
• Two years practical experience under the supervision of a Chartered Forensic Psychologist. To acheive the correct competencies during supervision you will need to complete Stage 2 of the Society's Diploma in Forensic Psychology
  

What is relevant work experience and how do I get it?

The universities offering the accredited Masters courses for Forensic Psychology will decide upon the type and nature of experience, if required. Identify the courses you are interested in and then approach the course tutors directly to see if they can provide you with a profile of they type of experience a successful applicant will have gained.

How much will I get paid?

Forensic Psychology in the UK is currently booming with a significant growth in the job market. Up-to date terms and conditions of employment may be obtained directly from employers. Pay rates start around £20,000 in you are newly qualified, up to £60,000+ for senior psychologists.

Where are jobs advertised?

• In Psychologist Appointments, which is part of The Psychologist, the Society's monthly publication.
• In the National Press, e.g. The Times, The Guardian, The Independent
• In specialist publications from the Home Office - http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk

What if I'm a mature student?

• Mature students often ask us if their age will prevent them from succeeding in a psychology career. You can find out more information under the Change of Career section of the website.

What to do with a 2:2?

Admissions tutors will not normally accept graduates with a 2:2 unless they have achieved some higher qualification as well. Any psychology Masters degree would be relevant, the main thing is that the MSc demonstrates applied research ability - a taught MSc would be less relevant unless there is a heavy emphasis on research methods. Courses are looking for evidence that the person has redeemed himself or herself in terms of academic and research ability. Usually this means an MSc/MPhil in which the candidate has successfully completed an applied research project, preferably in a forensic-related area. Please contact the Universities directly for more specific information on their entry criteria.

Where do I find out more?

• Courses: Contact courses direct for more information about content, entry requirements, application procedure etc…
• Home Office : Advertises vacancies for psychology graduates.
• Prison Service : Advertises jobs and provides information on the role of psychologists.
• DFP: the Division of Forensic Psychology of the BPS. Access to publications, conferences, and special interest groups and chat rooms with membership.
• Contact us: request form for further specific information.