Forensic Mental Health Studies – (M.Sc.)

This programme is designed for experienced professionals working in forensic mental health and those who are aspiring to work with mentally disordered offenders or patients who require similar services. It provides you with:

* Knowledge of the diverse needs of mentally disordered offenders
* An in-depth understanding of service provision and development for mentally disordered individuals at various stages in the criminal justice system
* Skills in promoting empowerment and quality of life of service users
* The ability to critically evaluate theory and practice
* An understanding of the roles and responsibilities of different agencies and disciplines involved in the care of mentally disordered offenders

Lectures are held at Reaside Clinic in South Birmingham and at the University of Birmingham on one afternoon a week (part-time) and two afternoons a week (full-time).

On completion of the Forensic Mental Health Studies Masters course you will have gained:

* an understanding of the spectrum of care facilities required in relation to mentally disordered offenders and others who require similar services
* a comprehensive knowledge of assessment and treatment interventions available at various stages of the criminal justice system.
* an understanding of the principles of mental health legislation and specifically practical application of the law in the care of mentally ill individuals within the criminal justice system and on transfer to health service care
* a knowledge of ethical and policy issues involved in providing services for mentally disordered offenders
* the ability to appraise and organise research in the workplace and apply findings that are practical, as well as at a theoretical level.

You are able to combine modules from parallel courses; treatment of substance misuse and clinical neuroscience and the course leads to a Master of Science Degree after the completion of all assignments and the dissertation, or a Postgraduate Diploma for the completion of the assignments alone.
The course involves inter-disciplinary learning in small group settings along with personal tutorials with course organisers. You are encouraged to contribute directly to planning the course content and required to continuously evaluate the taught modules. In addition, student representatives are elected to the course advisory panel.