Study Doctor of Philosophy - Forensic Psychology at Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand,

Doctor of Philosophy - Forensic Psychology

New Zealand

What will I learn?

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree involves original and sustained research, mentored by an academic supervisor. It’s an opportunity to make new discoveries, address some of the big issues of our time, challenge yourself, and develop a mix of transferable and specialised skills. Study in New Zealand’s only postgraduate programme in forensic psychology. Examine psychological theory and research in the legal and criminal justice field. Explore how it relates to policy and practice in areas such as adult corrections, family violence, youth offending and child eyewitness interviewing. Develop clinically relevant skills and learn to use a range of research techniques to address forensic psychology research questions. You'll be able to design, conduct, present and publish research that can make a real difference to people's lives. Taught by the School of Psychology, you'll work in modern research labs alongside staff who are international leaders in their field. You might also spend time doing fieldwork at forensic agencies and voluntary organisations that provide services for offenders. Get insights into how forensic psychology works in real life through the School's close ties with government departments involved in crime and justice. These include the Department of Corrections, New Zealand Police and the Ministry of Social Development.

Study options

Full Time (3 Years)

Tuition fees
NZ$40,599.60 (US$ 24,218) per year

*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution

Start date

December 2026

Venue

Kelburn Campus

Kelburn, Wellington,

Wellington,

6012, North Island, New Zealand

Full Time (3 Years)

Tuition fees
NZ$40,599.60 (US$ 24,218) per year

*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution

Start date

December 2027

Venue

Kelburn Campus

Kelburn, Wellington,

Wellington,

6012, North Island, New Zealand

Entry requirements

For international students

Research degree such as Honours or Master's by thesis from a New Zealand university with an average grade of B+ or higher, an approved international equivalent, or other approved evidence of adequate training and ability.If you have a four-year Bachelor's degree graded in a four-point GPA system, you will need to have a GPA of at least 3.0 out of 4.0.If you have a Bachelor's degree graded in the British system (including from India), you must have been awarded the degree with first or upper second-class Honours.Either a Bachelors degree with Honours or a Masters degree from a New Zealand university, with an overall GPA of no less than 6 (letter grade B+);Or to be currently enrolled in a Masters thesis at the Victoria University of Wellington and meet the requirements for conversion to a PhD;arrange references from two refereesupload a sample of your academic writing in Englishprepare an overview of your intended research project.

*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.

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About Victoria University of Wellington

Victoria University of Wellington ranks in the top one percent of the world’s universities in 14 subject areas.

  • 5-Stars Plus from the QS Stars Rating of Excellence
  • Number one in New Zealand for research intensity
  • 92 percent of graduates are employed or furthering their stu
  • Located in the heart of New Zealand’s vibrant capital city

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