University of Portsmouth United Kingdom

Criminal Psychology and Victimology MSc

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode Online
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The Criminal Psychology and Victimology MSc from the University of Portsmouth offers a compelling deep dive into the complex interplay between criminal behaviour and the experiences of victims. This postgraduate qualification is ideal for those seeking to understand the psychological underpinnings of offending and the multifaceted needs of victims within the criminal justice system. You will explore critical theories, policy developments, and professional practices, gaining essential knowledge in areas such as offender profiling, victim support, and research methodologies. If you are driven by a desire to make a tangible difference in criminal justice, this Master's degree provides the advanced insights and analytical skills required.

This online, part-time Master's degree is structured over two years, allowing you to balance your studies with professional or personal commitments. You will engage with core modules covering psychology and offending behaviour, research methods, and working with victims, alongside optional units in investigation psychology, missing persons, or victimology. The programme culminates in a significant dissertation or major project, where you will apply your learning to an in-depth research question. You will graduate with enhanced skills in critical analysis, research design, and evidence-based practice, preparing you for roles in criminal justice agencies, victim support services, or further academic research.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MSc program delves into the complex interplay between criminal behavior and its victims. You will explore the psychological underpinnings of offending, alongside essential research methodologies and ethical considerations. The curriculum also examines the theory, policy, and professional practice surrounding work with victims of crime, with opportunities to specialize in areas such as investigative psychology, missing persons, or victimology through optional modules. A significant dissertation or major project will allow for in-depth independent research.

1 Year 1

Psychology and offending behaviour
Research methods and research ethics
Working with victims of crime: theory, policy and professional practice

2 Year 2

Dissertation/major project

3 Optional modules

Investigation and psychology
Missing persons: global perspectives
Victimology: vulnerability, risk and resilience

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 6,555.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 6,555.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 13,111.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 912.00 - USD 2,400.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on Portsmouth Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Beverage Production & DistributionClinical & Medical ServicesConsumer Finance & Credit ServicesFood Processing & ManufacturingFood Science & TechnologyHealth Technology & Digital HealthHealthcare Administration & ManagementHealthcare ConsultingHome Health & Long‑Term CareNursing & Allied Health

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Legal & General

NHS Grampian

Nuffield Health

Tesco

Why Study Criminal Psychology and Victimology MSc at University of Portsmouth

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Portsmouth in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Criminal Psychology and Victimology MSc at University of Portsmouth

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree programs can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed for these students.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you can take tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Minimum scores vary, for example, TOEFL requires an overall score of 91 with specific sub-scores.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include criminal psychologist, victim advocate, forensic analyst, legal consultant, and data analyst.

What will I actually study in this course?

  • Explore what's behind the experiences of both offenders and victims of crime on this part-time Master's degree in Criminal Psychology and Victimology, studying at your own pace via distance learning.
  • You'll learn how taking a psychological

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the Criminal Psychology and Victimology MSc program is September. Make sure to prepare your application ahead of this date!
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