The Doctor of Forensic Psychology at the University of Exeter is designed for aspiring professionals seeking to make a significant impact within the criminal justice system, prisons, and community settings. You will develop advanced skills in conducting psychological assessments and interventions, undertaking critical research, and effectively communicating complex psychological knowledge to diverse audiences, including other professionals. This postgraduate programme equips you for the dual role of a forensic psychologist practitioner and researcher, preparing you to address the multifaceted challenges in this vital field.
This professional doctorate is studied full-time on campus over three years, integrating academic teaching with essential practical experience. You will engage with core competencies across the four key roles of a forensic psychologist, including assessment and formulation, therapy and intervention, theories of offending, and professional ethics. The curriculum also covers mental health, neurodevelopmental disorders, risk assessment, and psychology within the legal system. Through a combination of taught elements, a research thesis, and crucial placements, you will graduate with the expertise and practical skills necessary for a successful career as a forensic psychologist.