Legal, investigative, corrective and policy agencies across Australia are looking for individuals with the psychological expertise to aid understanding and management of forensic issues. The Master of Psychology (Forensic) will prepare you to meet the increasing demand for professionals in this field.

This program - first offered in 1998 - focuses on the integration of clinical, research and legal skills. Your courses will cover psychological assessment, intervention in and applications of forensic psychology, law for psychologists and professional and ethical practice. In addition to coursework, you’ll complete a research thesis, in the form of a scholarly journal article, on a topic relevant to forensic psychology.

Forensic psychologists can be involved in all professional aspects of the interface between psychology and the law. Forensic psychologists work in a wide range of settings, including prisons, courts, police, probation and parole, juvenile justice, public policy, insurance, community services and child protection. 

Key features

• Professional accreditation
  This program is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) as the fifth and sixth years of study, leading to registration as a psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA). After completing a further two years of supervised practice, you can apply to the PsyBA for full membership and endorsement as a forensic psychologist.

• Practical experience 
  You’ll undertake training in the assessment of people with a range of psychological disorders and disabilities. You’ll be equipped with knowledge and skills in a multitude of areas, including interviewing and intervention skills, civil and criminal law, expert testimony and investigative approaches. 

• Two industry-leading schools
  This degree is unique among master’s programs in forensic psychology in that both a school of psychology and a law school are involved in its teaching.

• Combined degree option 
  We also offer a combined PhD/Master of Psychology (Forensic). This four-year, full-time degree includes a research component as well as coursework and professional placements.