UNIVERSITY OF NOTTINGHAM · UNITED KINGDOM
Doctorate in Forensic Psychology (DForenPsy Top-up)
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
7.5
IELTS
€33k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Eligible for BPS Chartered and HCPC registrationProfessional Accreditation
- Up to two years full-time studyDuration
- Practical placements in forensic settingsExperiential Learning
- Block teaching annuallyStructured Learning
This top-up programme is designed for individuals who have already completed Stage 1 training and hold a BPS-accredited Masters in Criminological, Forensic, or Investigative Psychology. It allows you to complete Stage 2 of your training to become a chartered and registered forensic psychologist. The course is jointly delivered by the Centre for Forensic and Family Psychology (CFFP) within the School of Medicine and the Institute of Mental Health. Upon successful completion, you will be eligible to apply for Chartered Psychology status with the British Psychological Society (BPS), registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as a Forensic Psychologist, and full membership of the Division of Forensic Psychology. During the programme, you will engage in practical experience through placements in forensic environments across the UK and Ireland, working with victims and offenders in various settings. You will also attend two weeks of block teaching at the University of Nottingham each year, typically in October and January.
Curriculum
This doctorate component (Stage 2) focuses on developing essential skills and competencies in four core areas of forensic psychology practice. You will also complete a 'practice portfolio' and an 'academic research thesis'.
- Stage 2 (Doctorate Component)
- Conducting psychological assessments and interventions with victims and offenders
- Case studies, research, and evaluation
- Communicating knowledge and information to other professionals and clients
- Training other professionals in psychological skills and methods
- Practice portfolio
- Academic research thesis
Careers
Upon successful completion of this programme, you will be eligible for key professional registrations and qualifications, paving the way for a career as a registered forensic psychologist.
- Forensic Psychologist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Doctorate in Forensic Psychology?
- You need a BPS-accredited Masters in Criminological, Forensic, or Investigative Psychology (Stage 1 training) with at least 60% overall and 60% in your final research project. You also require IELTS 7.5 with no less than 7.0 in each element, evidence of 75 days supervised forensic experience, and a DBS certificate.
- How much does the Doctorate in Forensic Psychology cost for international students?
- The tuition fee for international students is £28,200 for full-time study. This fee is subject to confirmation and may change.
- How long does the Doctorate in Forensic Psychology programme take?
- This is a top-up programme designed to be completed over up to two years of full-time study.
- What are the application deadlines for the programme?
- Applications for 2026 entry are accepted from December 1st to June 30th. Applications received after June 30th will be considered for the following academic year.
- What support is available for the tuition fees?
- Placement Provider Scholarships/Bursaries may be available, awarded at the discretion of placement providers to increase applicant inclusivity. The specific amounts are variable.
- What are the career prospects after completing this programme?
- Upon successful completion, you will be eligible to apply for Chartered Psychology status with the BPS and registration with the HCPC as a Forensic Psychologist.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate degree in Psychology2:1 (or international equivalent) recognised by the BPS for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership, with a minimum of 60% overall and 60% in the final research project.
Postgraduate degree (MSc)MSc in Forensic/Criminological/Investigative Psychology recognised by the BPS as Stage 1 Training, with a minimum of 60% overall and 60% in the final research project.
IELTS7.5 with no less than 7.0 in each element
Applicants must also provide one clinical and one academic reference, academic transcripts, a personal statement, an abstract of their most recent research project, and evidence of at least 75 days of supervised forensic experience. A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate issued within the last 12 months is also required. Alternative qualifications and relevant work experience may be considered on an individual basis. For country-specific entry requirements, please refer to the university's country pages.
Fees
Tuition (international)£28,200 (full-time)
Tuition (home)To be confirmed
LivingNot specified
Tuition fees are for full-time study and are subject to confirmation. Part-time fees are a proportion of the full-time fee, subject to inflation. Additional costs may include printing and recommended equipment. For EU, EEA, and Swiss students, fee status will be assessed according to UKCISA guidance.
How to apply
1. Submit ApplicationApply online through the university's application portal. Ensure all required documents are submitted by the deadline.
2. Prepare Supporting DocumentsGather your academic transcripts, one clinical and one academic reference, a personal statement (max. one A4 page), and an abstract of your most recent research project.
3. Evidence Forensic ExperienceProvide documentation of at least 75 days of supervised experience in forensic practice. A recent Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate is also required.
4. Attend for Interview (if required)While not explicitly stated, interviews are common for postgraduate research programmes. Be prepared to discuss your experience and suitability.
5. Receive OfferSuccessful applicants will receive an offer from the university.
6. Accept Offer and Prepare for EnrolmentConfirm your acceptance of the offer and make arrangements for tuition fees and visa requirements if applicable.
Scholarships
Placement Provider Scholarships/BursariesVariable
Accreditation
Approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS).
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Doctorate in Forensic Psychology?
+
You need a BPS-accredited Masters in Criminological, Forensic, or Investigative Psychology (Stage 1 training) with at least 60% overall and 60% in your final research project. You also require IELTS 7.5 with no less than 7.0 in each element, evidence of 75 days supervised forensic experience, and a DBS certificate.
How much does the Doctorate in Forensic Psychology cost for international students?
+
The tuition fee for international students is £28,200 for full-time study. This fee is subject to confirmation and may change.
How long does the Doctorate in Forensic Psychology programme take?
+
This is a top-up programme designed to be completed over up to two years of full-time study.
What are the application deadlines for the programme?
+
Applications for 2026 entry are accepted from December 1st to June 30th. Applications received after June 30th will be considered for the following academic year.
What support is available for the tuition fees?
+
Placement Provider Scholarships/Bursaries may be available, awarded at the discretion of placement providers to increase applicant inclusivity. The specific amounts are variable.
What are the career prospects after completing this programme?
+
Upon successful completion, you will be eligible to apply for Chartered Psychology status with the BPS and registration with the HCPC as a Forensic Psychologist.