University of Portsmouth United Kingdom

Criminal Psychology MSc

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The Criminal Psychology MSc at the University of Portsmouth offers you a deep dive into the complex interplay between the mind and criminal behaviour, preparing you for impactful roles within the criminal justice system. This postgraduate degree is ideal if you are seeking to understand the psychological underpinnings of offending and investigative techniques, or if you wish to advance your career in fields such as policing, probation, or intelligence analysis. You will explore critical areas including offender profiling, the psychology of investigations, and the factors influencing rehabilitation, gaining essential knowledge for a career dedicated to understanding and addressing crime.

This intensive, full-time Master's degree is studied on campus over one year, providing a structured yet flexible learning environment. You will develop your research methods and ethics skills, crucial for your final dissertation or major project, where you can investigate a topic of your choice. The curriculum integrates core modules on psychology and offending behaviour with opportunities to explore optional subjects like dangerous offenders or missing persons investigations. Upon graduation, you will possess a robust understanding of criminal psychology, ready to apply your expertise in diverse roles across law enforcement, victim support, and offender rehabilitation services.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MSc in Criminal Psychology provides a comprehensive understanding of the psychological factors influencing offending behavior and victim experiences. You will explore core areas such as research methodologies, ethical considerations, and the psychology of investigations. The program also delves into specialized topics like dangerous offenders, missing persons, and rehabilitation strategies, allowing for tailored study through elective modules. A significant component of the degree is the dissertation or major project, offering an opportunity for in-depth independent research.

1 Year 1

Psychology and offending behaviour Compulsory
Research methods and research ethics Compulsory
Investigation and psychology Compulsory
Dissertation/major project Compulsory
Dangerous offenders and vulnerable victims Elective
Missing persons: global perspectives Elective
Rehabilitation and desistance from crime Elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,195.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 24,195.00

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

Clinical & Medical ServicesConsumer Finance & Credit ServicesFood Marketing & Brand ManagementHealthcare Administration & ManagementHealthcare ConsultingHome Health & Long‑Term CareMental Health & CounselingPrivate Equity & Venture CapitalRetail & GrocerySupply Chain & Food Logistics

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Legal & General

NHS Grampian

Nuffield Health

Tesco

Why Study Criminal Psychology 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 MSc at University of Portsmouth

Can I work while studying?

As an international student in this degree course, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. You can work full-time during breaks without needing a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To qualify for this course, you need an IELTS overall score of 6.5, with no single component below 6.0, or a PTE overall score of 65, also with no score below 62. Meeting these requirements ensures you can keep up with the academic demands.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can work as criminal psychologists, probation officers, intelligence analysts, or law enforcement officers.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course provides essential knowledge in criminal psychology, covering topics like police interviewing and offender profiling. You'll also study courtroom psychology and gain insights into the mental health aspects of offending behavior.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MSc Criminal Psychology course has an intake month of September. Make sure to apply before the deadline to secure your spot.
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