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PS-D01
Research Project
The research module will involve constructing and executing a substantial research project, usually conducted in connection with a topic / theme relevant to the overall masters programme. Capitalising the on the links between the course and local services, there may be opportunities to conduct research within partner organisations (e.g. NHS trusts, mental health charities, forensic units) as well as undertaking research based on topics generated by academics based within the department of psychology. We also encourage students who come to the program with connections as a consequence of previous professional experience, to undertake projects that are linked to interests they have already established. For students on BPS accredited masters programmes, the dissertation will take the form of an empirical research project involving primary data collection and submission of an individual ethics proposal.
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PS-M002
General Adult Clinical: Complex Mental Health Conditions
This module delves into the multifaceted landscape of complex mental health conditions, focusing on psychosis, borderline personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, psychopathy, and sexual offending behaviour. It critically examines various theoretical perspectives on the aetiology of these disorders, including biological, psychological, and social models. Additionally, the module explores how these disorders are assessed clinically. Established evidence-based treatments for complex mental health conditions and management of psychologically meaningful risk factors and pathological behaviours are reviewed. Finally, how these factors are linked to risk is addressed. Through critical analysis and discussion, students gain advanced insights into these complex mental health issues and prepare for clinical psychology practice.
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PS-M007
Clinical aspects of brain and behaviour through the lifespan
This module focuses on the interplay between neurological changes and traumatic experiences as a key field in understanding and interpreting behaviours across the lifespan. This involves exploring how behavioural and cognitive mechanisms underlying adaptive function are impacted by events such as adverse childhood experiences, neurodevelopmental brain insults, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative problems. The aims are both achieving a detailed understanding of clinical presentations, and targeting appropriate interventions for each case. Students will learn about the functional anatomy of the human brain (both limbic and cortical areas), how these regions are implicated in behavioural and cognitive regulation, and how such information informs methods of clinical psychology. Students will also be introduced to key clinically-based theories underpinning our understanding of neuropsychological syndromes, such as aphasia, amnesia, ASD, and attachment disorders. Additionally, they will learn about the drivers of rehabilitation methodologies available for such populations, and the means by which appropriate interventions can be selected.
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PS-M93
Assessment and Formulation in Forensic Contexts
This module examines approaches to assessment and formulation within criminal justice and forensic mental health settings. Drawing on best practice evidence, this module provides students with knowledge and skills relating to assessment and formulation processes including assessment and interviewing methods, sources of bias, engagement and motivation and models of formulation and case conceptualization. Throughout this module, students will apply their learning to fictitious cases and scenarios through discussions, group tasks and mock clinical interview scenarios.
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PS-M96
Professional issues and Core Concepts in Forensic Psychology
This module combines a focus on being an ethical scientist-reflective practitioner with systemic skills relating to professional development, training, supervision, consultancy and advice. This module examines the opportunities and challenges associated with interdisciplinary and multi-agency working and with working with different client groups and organisations. Students will explore and experience theories and approaches to reflection, supervision and self and other development, along with methods for providing formal advice, consultation and training to others. Although present across the programme, this module includes a specific focus on governance, ethical practice and professional standards, and the roles of policy, procedures and official guidelines within the workplace. This module will combine taught content with group discussions, group inquiry based learning, role plays and independent learning.
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PS-M97
Investigative and Legal Psychology
This module will explore the settings in which forensic psychology operates, legal frameworks and the application of psychology to the investigative process. We will discuss criminal justice and forensic mental health settings and consider the frameworks which underpin criminal, civil and family law including the ways in which victims and vulnerable groups are considered within these. This module will examine topics such as eyewitness testimony and suspect identification; false confessions; detecting deception; and cognitive biases in forensic evidence processing. Finally, consideration will be given to the interface between individual characteristics (e.g. gender, ethnicity, age) and legal processes. This module will combine taught content with group discussions, guided learning tasks and independent learning.
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PS-M98
Working with Those Who Offend
This module examines the psychological factors associated with offending behaviour and the approaches to treatment used in criminal justice and forensic mental health settings. Students will consider `what works¿ with respect to offending behaviour treatments and the importance of practice based evidence and outcome research in forensic contexts. Students will also consider the specific needs of different client groups and how tailored treatment can improve `responsivity¿. Throughout this module, students will apply their learning to fictitious cases and scenarios through discussions and group tasks.
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PSY332
Contemporary Issues in Forensic Psychology and Criminal Justice
This module explores how psychological principles are applied to address contemporary challenges within the criminal justice system. It explores topics such as mental health, traumatic brain injury, neurodiversity, and psychopathy, focussing on their implications for offending, sentencing, and offender management. Broader societal issues, including cybercrime, online misogynistic ideology, radicalised communities, and wellbeing in custodial settings, are also addressed. By combining theoretical insights with real-world applications, the module equips students with critical knowledge and analytical skills needed to engage with evolving debates and practices in forensic psychology. Designed to remain flexible and responsive to emerging priorities, it provides a flexible framework for exploring the dynamic interplay between psychology and the criminal justice system.
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PSY332I
Contemporary Issues in Forensic Psychology and Criminal Justice (IST)
This module explores how psychological principles are applied to address contemporary challenges within the criminal justice system. It explores topics such as mental health, traumatic brain injury, neurodiversity, and psychopathy, focussing on their implications for offending, sentencing, and offender management. Broader societal issues, including cybercrime, online misogynistic ideology, radicalised communities, and wellbeing in custodial settings, are also addressed. By combining theoretical insights with real-world applications, the module equips students with critical knowledge and analytical skills needed to engage with evolving debates and practices in forensic psychology. Designed to remain flexible and responsive to emerging priorities, it provides a flexible framework for exploring the dynamic interplay between psychology and the criminal justice system.
