Diploma in the Psychology of Criminal Behaviour

Diploma - NFQ Level 7

Further information:
Ms. Ciara Staunton
Programme Co-ordinator
Department of Applied Psychology
UCC
t: +353 21 4904512
e: c.staunton@ucc.ie

Fee: €2,700 for the academic year 2010-2011.  Students with outstanding fees at the end of Year 1 will not be progressed to Year 2.  Students with outstanding fees at the end of Year 2 cannot graduate.

Venue: UCC, Main Campus

Duration: Participants will be required to attend UCC for one weekend per month (Friday 6pm – 10pm and Saturday 10am – 5pm) between October and May each year.

Closing Date:
Early Closing Date: 30 July 2010 (€30 processing fee applies)
Final Closing Date: 14 Sept 2010 (€50 processing fee applies)

Programme aims and objectives:
The aim of the Diploma in the Psychology of Criminal Behaviour is to provide participants with an exciting and interesting foundation in the theory and practice of forensic and criminal psychology. This should enable those already working in the area to deal effectively with issues that may arise in the course of their duties.For those who may be considering a return to full-time education, it will enable them to judge if they are interested enough to further their studies. The course will involve familiarity with a broad range of skills and knowledge.

The course topics will provide a comprehensive theoretical base and a framework for best practice which is applicable and necessary in working within the Criminal Justice System. The course will also provide an overview of policies and early intervention strategies which are available to service providers engaged in delivering services within the Criminal Justice System. The main objectives of the course are to:

1. Develop familiarity with the reality of Forensic and Criminal Psychology;
2. Increase understanding of major concepts, principles and techniques of Forensic Psychology;
3. Demonstrate level of achievement of course objectives through completion of module assignments.

Duration and Admission
The course is offered on a part time basis over two years duration. The classes are delivered in block once a month (nine hours over two days) for a period of eight months thus allowing the student to combine life commitments with study. The Diploma contains eight modules - four modules are delivered each year.

Entry requirements:
Applicants will be admitted to the course on the basis of:

• Being at least 21 years of age by 1 January of the year of application;
• A detailed application form prior to the closing date which will request applicants to present a 500 word statement indicating their reasons for applying for the course;
• And/or interview.

English Language Requirement
All applicants whose first language is not English must have attained IELTS Level 6 or the equivalent TOEFL score.

Programme requirements:

Year I
Students take modules to the value of 30 credits as follows:

Year II
Students take modules to the value of 30 credits as follows:

Modules/Examinations
Detailed module descriptions and examination regulations can be found here.