Postgraduate Master s Courses in Psychology, Criminology, Politics, International Relations, Sociology and Public Health

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1 School of Social Sciences Postgraduate Master s Courses in Psychology, Criminology, Politics, International Relations, Sociology and Public Health

2 Welcome Thank you for considering postgraduate study at Nottingham Trent University. The School of Social Sciences is a large and vibrant academic community which offers a wide range of qualifications in diverse disciplines. We take pride in our high-quality courses that are intellectually stimulating and, where appropriate, relate directly to the needs of communities, society and professional practice. Our staff are not only experienced and committed teachers, but also engage in fundamental and applied research within their disciplines. This means that as a graduate you can be sure of working with the latest theories, methodologies and applications within your field. Many of our higher degree graduates go on to work in areas related to their studies in both the private and public sectors. Some pursue further study in the form of additional professional training, while others decide to undertake doctoral research. It always gives me great satisfaction to meet our students and to hear their success stories after studying at the School of Social Sciences. I hope that you will become one of those successes. I am sure you will find a course here that suits your particular needs and interests, and I look forward to welcoming you to NTU. Kathie Moore Dean of the School of Social Sciences The School s mission is to enrich and influence the lives of individuals, communities and societies.

3 1 Contents Why study at the School of Social Sciences? We develop your career and future prospects Where will your career take you? Psychology MSc / Postgraduate Diploma in Psychology MSc Applied Child Psychology MSc Forensic Mental Health MSc Psychological Well-Being and Mental Health MSc Forensic Psychology MRes / MSc Psychological Research Methods Politics and International Relations MA Politics MA International Relations Criminology, Sociology and Public Health MA Criminology MA Sociology MA Public Health Already found your profession? Boost your prospects with a professional qualification Research that inspires success Apply to join us! The financials Welcoming students from all over the world Discover Nottingham An inspiring environment to learn in Visit us Contact us

4 2 Why study at the School of Social Sciences? The School of Social Sciences delivers education and research that will enable you to advance your career in an environment that fosters ambition, progress, innovation and leadership. We are part of Nottingham Trent University (NTU), which is one of the UK s most popular universities. We have the largest number of postgraduate students taking professional qualifications in the UK. We aim, through our staff, students and graduates, to enrich and influence the lives of individuals, communities and societies while maximising the employability of our students. You will be taught by enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff who draw upon established expertise, research interests and professional experience. Take a look at our NTUshell video series at for just some of the staff expertise within the School. Our research-active teams and growing research reputation mean our teaching is informed by the latest subject knowledge and cutting-edge methodologies, providing you with up-to-date and vocationally relevant courses. Renowned experts and professionals in related fields are regularly invited to come and talk to our students, providing you with an insight into their specialist knowledge and experiences. 97% of School of Social Sciences postgraduates* are employed or engaged in further study six months after leaving. We provide a number of scholarships to home, EU and international students. Visit to learn more. We have a vibrant student community where you can share ideas, knowledge and experience with other students from across the UK and the world. All courses are designed to deliver a stimulating and challenging learning experience. The NTU experience will be one that develops your profile so you can strive to reach your full potential; a journey we would like to share with you. *Of those available for work, latest DLHE survey 2012/13. This statistic includes both full and part-time postgraduate taught and postgraduate research.

5 3 We develop your career and future prospects Students choose postgraduate study with us for a variety of reasons. For some, it provides the chance to discover more about the subject they are interested in; for others, it s an opportunity to retrain or gain a competitive advantage. A postgraduate qualification is increasingly sought after by employers and helps you stand out from the competition. Boost your employability The University has an exemplary employability record, largely based on our reputation for teaching and research that is relevant to the real world and which boosts career prospects. Employability is your passport to the world of work. Employers look for more than just a degree, so the more time you can invest in developing your employability skills, the more confident you will feel about standing out from the crowd when you graduate. There are so many opportunities for you to get involved with while you re here at NTU, all of which will shape your experiences and develop your skills. Succeed with Social Sciences The School of Social Sciences provides extensive services and opportunities for all our undergraduate and postgraduate students and graduates. We offer specialist guidance on planning for your future career, further study and international opportunities. Extensive calendar of careers-related events All current students and graduates from the School are invited to a series of workshops specifically designed to help you realise your employment opportunities with a Social Sciences degree. The workshops provide guidance on making career plans, the current job market, finding job vacancies, putting together CVs and applications, and developing those all-important interview skills. We also provide a range of events helping students to develop a career in a specific area. Past events have included careers in teaching, law, politics, housing, guidance and support, and working with young people. Visit for more information. Employability mentoring Our mentoring programme pairs students with former NTU students with significant professional experience. Your mentor, via face-to-face meetings, telephone and , will help you enhance your employability and provide guidance for a successful career. Dedicated Employability Support The University provides personalised and specialist career advice, via our Employability Team. They will support you throughout your time at NTU and help you determine the skills unique to you and your studies. Our tailored advice can help you plan the steps you need to take to maximise your potential. Visit for more information.

6 4 Where will your career take you? Our range of postgraduate degrees means that graduates from the School of Social Sciences have gone on to successful careers in a range of organisations, large and small, in both the public, private and voluntary sector. The following gives you an insight into the diverse range of settings our graduates are well placed to enter. Psychology Psychologists work in: community mental health teams prisons schools large, blue-chip companies research laboratories government departments the armed services hospitals premiership football clubs Politics and International Relations Politics and International Relations graduates enter a variety of professions, including: teaching research politics public administration the social and health services journalism and other areas of the media law publishing accounting marketing human resources management Criminology, Sociology and Public Health Graduates are in a great position to work in: the Home Office police forces local government crime and disorder reduction partnerships schools social and health services journalism and other areas of the media law publishing accounting marketing human resources research politics

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8 6 Psychology The Psychology Division at NTU is one of the largest in the country with over 60 academic staff providing expertise in all core areas of the discipline. The Division exemplifies the University s commitment to influencing people s lives and society through its theoretically informed, applied research. We offer a range of courses designed to maximise your employability, with effective tuition delivered by friendly and approachable staff. A supportive and active research environment We provide a lively, diverse and supportive research environment. Our research has been funded by the ESRC, EPSRC, Leverhulme, government departments, public sector organisations and the commercial sector. Our research groups sit under two broad themes: Health and Well-being Addiction and Aberrant Behaviours Well-being Cognition, Perception and Communication Cognition and Perception Language and Psycholinguistics Development, Interaction and Social Relations All students are welcome to be part of our research culture by attending weekly research seminar series led by experts from NTU and other universities. Visit to find out more. Expert teaching We are passionate about our teaching, and our innovative courses build directly on the research activity and methodological and professional specialisms of our staff. These links are especially strong at postgraduate level and, alongside our British Psychological Society accredited undergraduate courses, we offer an exciting range of taught postgraduate MSc and MRes degrees. These give you the chance to develop your understanding in specialist areas and develop your career. Complementary to our master s courses we offer doctoral training, allowing you to pursue specialist research interests as part of a large and vibrant postgraduate student community. Careers and job application advice provided by the Division and tailored to your personal needs is another distinctive feature of Psychology at NTU. You will also have access to a range of excellent facilities. Professionally accredited courses Our conversion courses in Psychology (MSc and Postgraduate Diploma) and our MSc Forensic Psychology are both accredited by the British Psychological Society. This puts graduates from these courses on the first step towards becoming professional psychologists. Dr Ruth Mann delivered a guest lecture titled Can prisons reduce reoffending?

9 7 The staff and tutors on the course are very supportive and encouraging. They are always happy to see you outside of classes and having an individual tutor means you have somebody you can speak to throughout the entire year. The facilities are also very good and the Psychology Division is a great place to study. Helena Cole, MSc Psychological Research Methods Without the master s, there is no way that I would be where I am now; not just for the opportunities that it provided me with, but for the work experience and professional development too. Claire de Motte, MSc Forensic Psychology The enthusiasm of the staff at NTU was second to none which made me want to study on the course. The course also has a good mix of researchers and practitioners, with two clinical psychologists taking lectures and workshops. They taught me first-hand what working with people with mental health issues really involves. Serene Hadj-Hammou, MSc Psychology Find out more Come along to one of our postgraduate open evenings where you can speak to our course leaders. See page 47 for more details.

10 8 Facilities We have invested in our laboratory suites to ensure you have access to the latest equipment and software. We also have specialist laboratories dedicated to particular areas of interest in Psychology. These include: laboratories designed to support experimental research in cognition; a cognitive modelling and visual analysis laboratory; a computational modelling and data analysis laboratory; specialist motion capture and electromyography (EMG) facilities; hazard perception and transport simulation facilities; an EEG system and expert technician to support research in the exciting field of behavioural neuroscience; a psychophysiological laboratory; a human communication and social interaction laboratory; dedicated facilities to support research into computer gaming and cyberpsychology; and fixed and mobile eye-tracking facilities. We also have flexible cubicles for student project work, an extensive and contemporary psychometric test bank library and dedicated technical support.

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12 10 MSc / Postgraduate Diploma in Psychology Our British Psychological Society (BPS) accredited conversion courses are designed for graduates of other disciplines but whose first degree is not recognised by the BPS. You do not have to have studied Psychology before to get onto the MSc. Fact file Qualification: MSc / PG Dip Duration: MSc: one year full-time, two years part-time. PG Dip: nine months full-time, 21 months part-time (two academic years). Start: September Fees: Funding: Competitive scholarships are available. Visit to find out more. Contact: +44 (0) or s3.enquiries@ntu.ac.uk Entry requirements: Entry does not require any previous study of Psychology. You will need an undergraduate degree (minimum 2.1) or other recognised equivalent qualification. Applicants without such qualifications but with relevant experience will be considered on an individual basis. For English language requirements please see page 42. See online for full entry requirements. Key information Accredited by the BPS. No previous study of Psychology is required for the MSc. Core modules are taught exclusively to conversion course students. You will have access to one-to-one careers support from our postgraduate Psychology careers officer. Why choose this course? If you successfully complete either the MSc or PG Dip, you receive the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership with the BPS, which allows you to take further training to become a professional psychologist. Modules may include: Biological Psychology Introduces the major structures and functions of the nervous system, with particular emphasis on psychopharmacology. This basic knowledge is then used to explore the role of biology in behaviour. Social Psychology Introduces a range of key topics within social psychology (e.g. the social self, social cognition, obedience and conformity, and prosocial behaviour), with a strong emphasis on how social psychology can be applied to the real world. Developmental Psychology Explores social, emotional, cognitive and physical development of humans across the life span. You will consider the way in which innate mechanism (nature) and life experience (nurture) interact and impact on our development. Cognitive Psychology Approaches the study of cognition (i.e. mental processes such as memory, attention, language, problem solving and perception) from the view that we need to examine normal, abnormal and the applications of cognition within the real world. Individual Differences Looks at the individual development of people s personality, intelligence, health and emotional well-being. You will be encouraged to debate and reflect on the application of individual differences in fields as diverse as occupational, health and educational psychology. Get full course information online at

13 11 Historical and Conceptual Issues A guide to the main ideas, people and approaches that have shaped the discipline of Psychology throughout its history, from the earliest attempts to establish a modern science of the mind, towards the modern discipline and cognitive science. Research Methods Divided into three areas: experimental research, qualitative research and survey methods / psychometrics, you will be guided through the process of research design, data collection, analysis and report writing. You will be taught important theoretical issues such as ethics, sampling, randomisation and other aspects of research design, but the module is primarily focused on learning by doing research. Statistics Provides theoretical and practical knowledge of a range of statistical techniques. The skills you are taught will support the Research Methods module. You will learn the underlying assumptions and rationale behind the statistical techniques rather than their complex mathematics. Psychology Research Project Your project is an independent piece of work supervised by a research-active member of staff who will guide and support you as you work towards a final report. This will be the main opportunity for you to carry out an extensive piece of independent research of your own choosing. Specialist Psychological Essay (MSc only) Allows you to comprehensively explore the application of psychology within different occupational, cultural and social settings. The topic explored by the essay will be determined by your own interests and can be drawn from any area of psychology. Contemporary Psychology (MSc only) You will also chose an optional module during the second term. These modules generally focus on more applied fields of Psychology. Full module details are available on the course webpage: Delivery and assessment The course provides dedicated, supportive teaching from a team of staff who are experienced in helping students from diverse backgrounds and with specific needs. Further support is provided through small groups, individualised teaching in tutorials and individual supervision during the Research Project and Specialist Essay. You will be assessed on a modular basis via examination, coursework (including essays, laboratory reports and literature reviews), oral presentations and a research project. Research-informed teaching You will carry out both an empirical research project with a research-active member of staff and an indepth literature-based dissertation. We have links with a number of external organisations and you may be able to make use of these when carrying out your project. Career opportunities This course is accredited by the BPS, so you will be eligible on graduation to take further training as a professional psychologist (in forensic, clinical, educational, occupational, counselling, and sport psychology). You will also be able to pursue an academic and / or research career in Psychology, or exploit the transferable skills you have learned to pursue a career outside of the discipline. Student profile Serene Hadj-Hammou (Lebanon) MSc Psychology The MSc Psychology conversion course is challenging and demanding, but it is definitely interesting and well worth it! Go to to read more about Serene s experience. Get full course information online at

14 12 MSc Applied Child Psychology Our MSc in Applied Child Psychology looks at the advanced study of psychological development in children and adolescents. It focuses on the implications of psychological theory and research for policy and practice across a range of applied settings, including education, clinical and social contexts. Fact file Qualification: MSc Duration: One year full-time or two years part-time. Start: September Fees: Funding: Competitive scholarships are available. Visit to find out more. Contact: +44 (0) or s3.enquiries@ntu.ac.uk Entry requirements: You will need an undergraduate degree (minimum 2.1) in Psychology, or an allied discipline (supported by relevant experience of working with children) or other recognised equivalent qualification. Allied disciplines include Childhood Studies, Behavioural Sciences, Education and Speech or Language Therapy. Applicants without such qualifications but with relevant experience will be considered on an individual basis. For English language requirements please see page 42. See online for full entry requirements. Key information Learn from a research-active team with considerable expertise of working with children within child-related contexts. We have a teaching laboratory specifically for postgraduate students. Gain an in-depth understanding of the ethical and professional issues that are integral to working with children, adolescents and vulnerable people. Why choose this course? This course provides an in-depth and critical evaluation of current theory and practice in relation to different areas of Child Psychology, alongside advanced training in research methods. It is ideal if you have an interest in working with children or are interested in securing a doctoral training place in Educational Psychology. Modules may include: Social and Cognitive Development in Children Considers the importance of social and cognitive explanations for understanding and critically explaining children s development within different education settings. The module will consider aspects of social and cognitive developmental psychology within an applied educational setting. The Child in Context: Understanding Disability Aims to challenge understandings of child development that have emerged within psychology. It will examine the range of ways by which knowledge and understanding of the psychology of childhood has been developed. Research Skills for Working with Children Gives you an introduction to the quantitative and qualitative research methods that are typically used to study child and adolescent psychology. Observational Methods Provides you with a knowledge of, and practical skills in, observational methods. You will work on a collective observational analysis of videotaped material to build up your skills. Understanding Atypical Development Considers current theory and research in atypical development and explores to what extent biological explanations can be integrated with wider social and cultural explanations. Get full course information online at

15 13 Clinical Aspects of Behavioural Disorder Explores contemporary approaches to understanding clinical aspects of children s behaviour. The module will examine some of the challenges involved in labelling clinical disorders, the role of inclusion and disability and the diagnosis and treatment of children. Child Psychology Specialist Essay Explore an area in Child Psychology of your choice, supported by a series of tutorials. Child Psychology Research Project Enables you to develop and demonstrate professional psychological research skills appropriate to the discipline. Under the guidance of an appropriate supervisor, you will design and address ethical issues, and use a suitable research methodology to undertake extended independent research. Full module details are available on the course webpage: Delivery and assessment The course will be delivered through a combination of lectures, interactive workshops, small group teaching and individual project supervision. You will have access to our extensive facilities and the University s virtual learning environment. You will also be expected to engage in independent study during the course. A balanced range of assessments will be used on a modular basis including coursework (essays, laboratory reports and literature reviews), examinations and an independent research project. Research-informed teaching Staff are active members of key research groups including NTU s Communication for Inclusion Research Unit (CIRU) and the Specific Language Impairment Research Unit (SLIRU). They actively incorporate their research in teaching. Career development Students generally choose this course because they wish to pursue a career working with children. Many already work with children and complete the course in order to improve their prospects of promotion and career progression. Others see the qualification as a means of helping to secure a path to teacher training or doctoral training in educational psychology. It is also possible to pursue an academic and / or research career in child / developmental psychology following graduation. Student profile Sampada Moholkar (India) MSc Applied Child Psychology The modules are great focusing on overall child development and the current issues related to this subject area. Go to to read more about Sampada s experience. Get full course information online at

16 14 MSc Forensic Mental Health This course equips you with detailed knowledge relating to the psychological theories behind the improvement and maintenance of sound mental health in adults within a forensic psychology context. Fact file Qualification: MSc Duration: One year full-time or two years part-time Start: September Fees: Funding: Competitive scholarships are available. Visit to find out more. Contact: +44 (0) or s3.enquiries@ntu.ac.uk Entry requirements: You will need an undergraduate degree (minimum 2.2) in Psychology or an allied discipline such as Social Science, Nursing, Health-related Practice, Law or other recognised equivalent qualification. Applicants without such qualifications but with relevant experience will be considered on an individual basis. For English language requirements please see page 42. See online for full entry requirements. Key information Learn from a research-active team including members of the Sexual Crimes and Misconduct Research Unit. Act as a consultant psychologist providing psychological solutions to real-world problems set by external organisations. Attend regular seminars to hear from internal and external speakers who present their research findings. Why choose this course? This course will give you a combination of applied and research skills core to working in the mental health field or forensic settings. It is suitable for those whose first degree is in a related subject such as Law, Criminology, Sociology or Nursing. The course will also teach you a range of practical and research-related skills that are core to working in a variety of workplaces and settings. You will be taught by research-active staff, including forensic practitioners and academics, who have considerable experience within the area. This course is ideal if you are currently employed in (or seeking employment in) a mental health role in environments such as a secure hospital, the Ministry of Justice, the police force or the courts. Modules may include: Theory and Application to Mental Health Introduces you to key theories underpinning research and practice in mental health and illness, including both traditional and more contemporary perspectives. You may also have the opportunity to work alongside a relevant organisation. Contemporary Issues in Mental Health Explores a number of advanced contemporary topics in psychological well-being and mental health, taught by researchers with direct involvement in such topics. Get full course information online at

17 15 Explanations of Crime, Criminal Behaviour and Victimisation Gives you a conceptual basis for understanding crime, criminal behaviour and victimisation. This module also provides you with the theoretical basis for more applied modules. Forensic Mental Health This module considers philosophical, theoretical, methodological and practical issues associated with incapacitation, rehabilitation, and aftercare. Initiatives will be critically considered and located within legal statutes and ethical frameworks. Research and Professional Skills Ensures you are capable of planning, carrying out and seeking funding for ethically sound, independent research projects in a psychological setting. It also ensures that you are able to present the results in a variety of media for professional and non-professional audiences. Mixed Methods Considers the ontological, epistemological, practical, and theoretical issues involved in combining qualitative and quantitative research in psychology. It demonstrates some of the most effective ways in which quantitative and qualitative research techniques can be employed together within a single research programme. Specialist Psychology Essay Gives you the opportunity to comprehensively explore an area of interest, under the supervision of a member of staff who has expertise within that field. It also develops your dissemination skills through drafting publications aimed at practitioner and service user audiences. Research Project / Dissertation Under the supervision of a research-active member of staff, this module enables you to comprehensively demonstrate your research abilities through a chosen topic. Delivery and assessment The course is delivered through lectures, interactive workshops, small-group teaching and individual project supervision. You will be expected to engage in independent study and will have access to the facilities within the department and the University s virtual learning environment. Assessment is diverse and includes examinations, essays, oral presentations, professional reports and a research project. Research-informed teaching The MSc is aligned with the specialist Sexual Offences, Crimes and Misconduct Research Unit (SOCAMRU) at NTU. The unit includes researchers engaged in collaborative work with HM Prison Service, Nottinghamshire Healthcare Trust, the Ministry of Justice, high-security hospitals and the police. Career development This course is ideal if you wish to pursue a career working in a mental health role or in a forensic setting, or if you already work in such an environment and hope to improve your prospects of promotion and career progression. You may also decide to pursue, or to return to, applied employment in mental health or a forensic setting, as a forensic nurse, prison officer, secure hospital employee, mental health and criminal justice worker, law enforcer, barrister or solicitor. Student profile Piniel Moyo (UK) MSc Forensic Mental Health I found all the tutors on this course to be extremely helpful. Go to to read more about Piniel s experience. Full module details are available on the course webpage: Get full course information online at

18 16 MSc Psychological Well-Being and Mental Health This course equips you with the in-depth knowledge and professional research skills to evaluate, assess and advance our understanding of what works in helping adults achieve psychological well-being and good mental health. Fact file Qualification: MSc Duration: One year full-time or two years part-time Start: September Fees: Funding: Competitive scholarships are available. Visit to find out more. Contact: +44 (0) or Entry requirements: You will need an undergraduate degree (minimum 2.2) in Psychology or an allied discipline such as Nursing, Health-related Practice or another recognised equivalent qualification. Applicants without such qualifications but with relevant experience will be considered on an individual basis. For English language requirements please see page 42. See online for full entry requirements. Key information Ideal if you are intending to work or are already employed in the mental health sector. Act as a consultant psychologist providing psychological solutions to real-world problems set by external organisations. You will be invited to our regular seminars to hear from internal and external speakers who present their research findings. Why choose this course? It is designed to develop your knowledge of psychological theory relevant to the improvement and maintenance of psychological well-being and sound mental health in adults. You will develop your knowledge of the psychological principles underlying the psychological therapy models explored and apply this knowledge through hands-on exercises. Modules may include: Contemporary Issues in Mental Health Explores a number of advanced contemporary topics in psychological well-being and mental health, taught by researchers with direct involvement in such topics. Psychological Illness, Theory and Application You will consider the concept of psychological wellbeing and be introduced to theoretical approaches that have the potential to promote human growth and happiness. Clinical Research Methods Looks at the components of good practice for the conduct of psychological research in clinical settings. Theory and Application to Mental Health Introduces the key theories underpinning research and practice in mental health and illness, including both traditional and more contemporary perspectives. Assessment, Case Formulation and Treatment Introduces central concepts and approaches to psychotherapeutic assessment, case formulation and treatment across the life-span, taking into account both contextual factors and diversity issues. Get full course information online at

19 17 Specialist Psychological Essay Allows you to comprehensively explore an area of interest, under the supervision of a member of staff who has expertise within that field. It also develops your dissemination skills through drafting publications aimed at practitioner and service user audiences. Research and Professional Skills Introduces you to a range of key research and dissemination skills necessary for an academic or professional career in psychology (or related disciplines). Research Project / Dissertation Enables you to comprehensively demonstrate your research abilities, in relation to a chosen topic. It also develops your dissemination skills through drafting publications aimed at academic audiences. Full module details are available on the course webpage: Delivery and assessment The course is delivered largely through interactive workshops and discussions, small-group teaching and individual project supervision. There may also be some lectures. You will also be expected to engage in independent study and will have access to the extensive facilities within the department and the University s virtual learning environment. We use a balanced range of assessments to assess you on a modular basis. These include essays, presentations, book proposals and a research project. Research-informed teaching Our teaching staff have been engaged in researching topics such as the psychological consequences of traumatic exposure, the benefits of meditation and drug and alcohol addiction. Career development This course is ideal if you wish to pursue a career working in mental health or if you already work in such a setting and hope to improve your prospects of promotion and career progression. It is also possible to pursue an academic and / or research career in psychology following graduation (by working as a research assistant or associate, for example, or by studying for a PhD). You may also wish to pursue, or return to, applied employment in a mental health setting, in healthcare, counselling or social care. Get full course information online at

20 18 MSc Forensic Psychology This British Psychology Society-accredited course represents the first year of professional training towards becoming a qualified registered forensic psychologist. Fact file Qualification: MSc Duration: One year full-time (two days per week) or two years part-time (one day per week) Start: September Fees: Funding: Competitive scholarships are available. Visit to find out more. Contact: +44 (0) or s3.enquiries@ntu.ac.uk Accreditation: British Psychological Society (BPS) Entry requirements: You will need a BPS-recognised undergraduate degree (minimum 2.1) in Psychology or an equivalent qualification that confers Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership with the BPS. You must explain why you want to study this course in your personal statement. Applicants whose undergraduate degree is a 2.2 or equivalent will also be considered with relevant work experience. You will be interviewed as part of the admissions process. For English language requirements please see page 42. See online for full entry requirements. I believe the enthusiasm of the staff is contributing to making this one of the strongest MSc courses currently available to students who may wish to complete professional training as a forensic psychologist. John Hodge, External Examiner Key information This course is accredited by the British Psychological Society. Learn from a research-active team who have ongoing collaborations with local prisons, and some of which are chartered forensic psychologists. Reflective practice tutorials facilitate emotional and cognitive development as you enter the often taxing world of forensic psychology. Why choose this course? This course is designed to give Psychology graduates the academic knowledge and practical and research skills recommended by the BPS. The course will also equip you with core practical skills towards becoming a practitioner in the field of forensic psychology. Modules may include: Explanations of Crime, Criminal Behaviour and Victimology Provides you with a conceptual basis for understanding crime, criminal behaviour and victimisation. This module also gives you the theoretical basis for more applied modules. The Police, Criminal Justice System and Psychology This module develops your current knowledge about how psychology can be applied to the civil and criminal justice system and legal processes. Professional Forensic Practice You will develop a comprehensive understanding of the BPS Professional Code of Conduct and Ethical guidelines. You will then start to consider how these can be applied and understood in terms of developing professional practice and research skills, such as risk assessment, forensic interviewing, clinical case Get full course information online at

21 19 formulation and treatment planning. You may also have the opportunity to attend specialist practitioner lectures and go on site visits to forensic institutions, such as prisons and secure hospitals. Advanced Experimentation and Statistics Examines the theoretical and philosophical foundations of statistics used in experimental research. The module also covers the application of various experimental designs and statistical techniques and computer software, such as SPSS. Qualitative Research Provides you with a comprehensive philosophical and methodological grounding in qualitative research. You will also develop the necessary skills to manage qualitative data, alongside a range of analytical techniques used by qualitative researchers. Assessment, Formulation and Treatment of Offenders and Victims Explores conceptual and applied issues associated with the core practitioner skills of assessment, formulation and treatment. You will gain a critical knowledge of assessment methods and tools. Prison, Rehabilitation and Aftercare Develops knowledge about forensic settings commonly encountered by offenders post-sentencing, in particular prisons, secure hospitals and community initiatives. Mixed Methods Research Considers the ontological, epistemological, practical and theoretical issues involved in combining qualitative and quantitative research in psychology. It demonstrates some of the most effective ways in which quantitative and qualitative research techniques can be employed together within a single research programme. Research Project Under the supervision of a research-active member of staff this module enables you to comprehensively demonstrate your research abilities throughout a chosen topic. Delivery and assessment This course is supported by a team of approachable staff, and is delivered through lectures, workshops, seminars, small-group reflective practice sessions and supervised individual research work. Assessments are diverse and include examinations, essays, presentations, practical reports, a forensic practice portfolio and a research project. Research-informed teaching The focus on blending research and practical expertise is reflected in our team, which includes forensic psychologists, practitioners and academics who have considerable experience working with offenders and victims in a range of forensic contexts. Attached to the course is our Sexual Offences, Crime and Misconduct Research Unit, which includes researchers previously engaged in collaborative work with HM Prison Service, Nottinghamshire Healthcare Trust, the Ministry of Justice, high-security hospitals and the police. Placements This course does not include a mandatory placement. However, there are a wide variety of forensic work experience opportunities (usually one day per week during term time) and / or applied forensic projects available each year. These allow you to gain experience within a forensic environment or a secure hospital. Career opportunities This MSc is ideal if you are seeking a career as a forensic psychologist, clinical psychologist, researcher or criminal justice or mental health worker. Potential careers may involve positions with the police, prison or probation services, the NHS, the Ministry of Justice, the private sector or in academia. This course is accredited by the British Psychological Society, so completing it can be the first stage in your professional training towards becoming a qualified Registered Forensic Psychologist. Full module details are available on the course webpage: Get full course information online at

22 20 MRes / MSc Psychological Research Methods Our MRes / MSc in Psychological Research Methods provides extensive training for those looking to develop a broad range of skills relevant to independent research. Fact file Qualification: MRes / MSc Duration: One year full-time or two years part-time Start: September Fees: Funding: Competitive scholarships are available. Visit to find out more. Contact: +44 (0) or s3.enquiries@ntu.ac.uk Entry requirements: You will need an undergraduate degree (minimum 2.1) in Psychology or a closely related discipline, or other recognised equivalent qualification. Applicants without such qualifications but with relevant experience will be considered on an individual basis. For English language requirements please see page 42. See online for full entry requirements. Key information Specialist psychology suites include social interaction, group work and interviewing; computer gaming and cyberpsychology; and cognitive modelling. All students have access to one-to-one careers support from our postgraduate Psychology careers officer. Graduates from the course are equipped to conduct research in any area of psychology. Why choose this course? The course has been designed specifically to prepare graduates in Psychology or related disciplines for: a PhD degree; research or related careers in academic or applied psychological disciplines; and, careers in which data handling and analytical skills are relevant. Modules may include: In Term One, all full-time MRes and MSc students complete the same core modules including: Advanced Experimentation and Statistics One Examines the theoretical and philosophical underpinnings of statistics used in experimental research. The framework for the module is a regression / GLM approach to statistics that focuses on the relationship between multiple linear regression, ANOVA and ANCOVA. Psychometrics One Developing Psychometric Scales in Research and Practice Provides you with a basic knowledge of psychometric theory and how it can be applied to the different stages of test development. You will also work to produce your own psychometric scale. Qualitative Research Design and Analysis One Explores a constellation of designs and methods in qualitative research, each offering a unique perspective on a chosen research topic. Research and Professional Skills Ensures you are capable of planning, carrying out and seeking funding for ethically sound, independent research projects in a psychological setting. It also ensures that you are able to present the results in a variety of media for both professional and non-professional audiences. Get full course information online at

23 21 Observational Methods Provides you with a knowledge of, and practical skills in, observational methods. You will work on a collective observational analysis of video-taped material to build up your skills. In Term Two, students pursuing the MSc complete five more taught modules. MRes students complete just three of their choice, allowing them to concentrate exclusively on quantitative / psychometric methods or qualitative methods. Advanced Experimentation and Statistics Two Uses the regression framework adopted in Advanced Experimentation and Statistics One and introduces additional advanced statistical topics such as logistic regression, Poisson regression, meta-analysis and multilevel modelling. Psychometrics Two Using Psychometric Scales in Research and Practice Builds on understandings developed in the earlier psychometrics module but considers how scales are actually used in research and practice. Qualitative Research Design and Analysis Two Provides you with both the theoretical underpinnings and analytic practice of conversation analysis and discursive psychology. Testing Psychological Theories Using SEM Introduces you to the theoretical and philosophical foundations of structural equation modelling (SEM) and equips you with the skills and understanding; to construct, analyse and interpret theoretical path analytic models using LISREL software. Psychology Research Project Your project is an independent piece of work supervised by a member of staff who will guide and support you as you work towards producing a final report. This will be the main opportunity for you to carry out an extensive piece of independent research of your own choosing. Specialist Psychological Research Methods Essay (MSc only) Allows you to comprehensively explore the application of a psychological research method or set of related methods within different occupational, cultural or social settings. The specific method(s) and setting explored will be determined by your own interests. Full module details are available on the course webpage: Choosing your route The MSc emphasises a taught focus across a range of methods and will be suitable for students keen to develop a broad profile of independent research skills. The MRes places a greater emphasis on independent study and is suitable for students who are already engaged in psychological research and wish to focus on a particular area. The innovative course structure means you don t need to decide which award you want to focus on until the end of Term One. Delivery and assessment The course is delivered through lectures, workshops and seminars. You will be assessed on a modular basis via examination, coursework (including essays, laboratory reports and literature reviews), an oral presentation and an independent research project. Research-informed teaching Key to our approach is the view that research methods, whether qualitative, quantitative or mixed, should be attuned to the research question. Therefore your project supervisor will be a specialist in terms of your area and the methods you employ. Career opportunities Graduates go on to pursue academic and / or research careers in various areas of psychology (by working as a research assistant or associate, for example, or by studying for a PhD). The course is also suitable if you wish to improve your research skills in preparation for further training as a professional psychologist in areas such as clinical or educational psychology. Get full course information online at

24 22 Politics and International Relations Politics and International Relations are concerned with understanding our changing world and the effect of transnational and international activities. A dedicated team of staff strive for excellence in both teaching and research and bring the latest knowledge to inform course modules. Politics brings together an enthusiastic and research-active team. Our activities span various settings including having an active presence on social media sites such as blogs and providing regular media commentary on parliamentary affairs. International Relations has an engaging research-active team of world-renowned experts. Regionally aligned research strengths in Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, the Indian subcontinent and Europe ensure the latest worldwide issues and knowledge inform our course modules. Both of our postgraduate courses provide training and prepare you for a wide variety of professional and academic careers. Our courses give you: the knowledge you need to explore the world; the ideas you need to understand the world; the skills you need to succeed; and a research-informed learning environment.