Forensic Clinical Psychology | University of Birmingham

Course summary

Join the first practitioner Doctorate in the UK to provide expertise in two different branches of applied psychology and embark on a transformative journey to eligibility to practise as a Forensic and Clinical psychologist.

Earn a prestigious dual qualification, endorsed by both the British Psychological Society (BPS) and the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). Whether you’re drawn to forensic environments, clinical settings, or a dynamic combination of both, this program equips you with the expertise and credentials to excel. The course welcomes applications from people underrepresented in the profession.

Successful completion of the course will grant you eligibility to become Chartered Forensic and Clinical Psychologists within the BPS and to apply for registration with the HCPC as Forensic and Clinical Psychologists.

This unique course trains reflective scientist-practitioners to creatively tackle diverse psychological challenges, blending clinical and forensic approaches. With a growing need for expertise in both disciplines, you’ll be equipped to address mental health issues in prison, probation, and forensic settings. Gain dual qualifications (BPS and HCPC approved) at the doctoral level, unlocking opportunities to practice in forensic, clinical, or combined environments. Through cutting-edge research, you’ll expand the field’s knowledge base and improve forensic clinical practices, shaping better outcomes and enhancing public safety. Push the boundaries of psychology and make a lasting impact.

Combining Forensic and Clinical – This is a unique course integrating forensic and clinical psychological practice at doctoral level
Dual Qualification – The qualification confers a dual qualification, BPS and HCPC approved, for practice in forensic, clinical or combined settings
Research – You can expand the knowledge base in this crucial area of psychological practice through your own forensic clinical research
Improve Practice – You can push the boundaries to improve forensic clinical practice and protect the public

Assessment method

Assessment is based on the completion of a thesis.

Entry requirements

2:1 Honours degree in Psychology that confers Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC) from the British Psychological Society.

A 2:2 degree classification that confers GBC plus a Masters degree would be considered equivalent to the above criteria. A Masters degree or other relevant academic qualifications would also support an application. Conversion degrees that confer GBC are also acceptable.

Enhanced DBS check

No criminal convictions (Psychology is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act so no criminal convictions are ever considered 'spent')

At least 12 months of relevant experience working in a clinical and/or forensic setting which has involved face-to-face contact with clients under the supervision of a qualified clinical or forensic psychologist (where this is not possible, such as in the case of international students, please contact the admissions tutor for advice on meeting this requirement)

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

No fee information has been provided for this course

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website.

Additional fee information

For more detailed information on available funding and fees for postgraduate courses please visit: https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught/fees-funding