Post Graduate Diploma/ Executive Diploma in Forensic Psychology

The PG Diploma/Executive Diploma in Forensic Psychology lies at the intersection of psychology, law, and criminal behaviour, focusing on the intricate relationships between psychological processes and the legal system. It examines how psychological theories, mental disorders, and neurobiological factors influence criminal behaviour, offender rehabilitation, and legal decision-making.

This programme offers an in-depth exploration of forensic psychology, combining theoretical foundations to help students understand and assess the cognitive, emotional, and behavioural aspects of criminality. Designed for professionals and graduates seeking specialized knowledge, the programme equips students with the skills needed to work in law enforcement, corrections, legal consulting, victim advocacy, and forensic mental health settings. Ethical considerations, investigative techniques, and the role of forensic psychologists in the justice system are also key components of this comprehensive curriculum.

Programme Overview:

The Forensic Psychology Programme is a specialized, comprehensive course designed to equip professionals and graduates with an in-depth understanding of the intersection between psychology and the legal system. This program offers an immersive curriculum that explores how psychological theories, research, and clinical practices contribute to understanding criminal behaviour, legal processes, and rehabilitation.

At its core, forensic psychology examines the ways in which psychological principles apply to criminal investigations, legal proceedings, and correctional settings. This course introduces students to key areas of forensic psychology, including criminal behaviour analysis, victimology, investigative psychology, and correctional rehabilitation. Students will gain skills required in psychological assessment, risk evaluation, criminal profiling, forensic interviewing, and ethical considerations within the justice system. The curriculum ensures a strong foundation in theoretical knowledge allowing students to analyse real-world cases and understand the psychological factors influencing crime and legal decision-making. Case studies will be integrated throughout the program to ensure students develop essential analytical and critical thinking skills.

Programme Structure

International Affiliation with

Module 1: Introduction to Psychology

• Definition and Importance of Psychology
• Branches and Scope of psychology
• Early Philosophical Influences on Psychology
• Historical foundations of Psychology
• Paradigms in Western Psychology

Module 2: Psychological Perspectives Applied to Crime

• Behavioral perspective
• Psychodynamic perspective
• Cognitive perspective & Social and cultural perspective
• Biological perspective 

Module 3: Biological & Neuropsychological Bases

• Neural Foundations of Behavior and Mental Processes
• Neurotransmitters, Hormones, and Psychophysiological Regulation
• Genetic and Epigenetic Mechanisms in Psychological Disorders
• Brain–Behavior Relationships and Neuropsychological Functioning  

Module 4: Psychopathology and Abnormal Psychology

• Overview: Classification and Diagnosis (DSM-5/ICD-10)
• Anxiety and Mood Disorders
• Schizophrenia and Psychotic Disorders
• Personality disorder
• Substance Use and Addictive Disorders  

Module 5: Fundamentals of Forensic Psychology

• Overview of Forensic Psychology
• Brief history and evolution of forensic psychology
• Forensic psychology as a specialized field
• Research and career opportunities in forensic psychology

Module 6: Psychology of Crime

• Introduction to criminology and its historical background
• The relationship between crime and criminal law
• Ethical considerations in criminology
• Definition and classification of crime
• Crime trends, myths, and facts
• Theories of crime causation: Choice theories, Trait theories, Social structure, process, and conflict theories, Developmental theories 

Module 7: Criminal Behaviour and Offender Typologies

• Psychology of violence: Human aggression and criminal behaviour
• Development of delinquent and criminal behaviour
• Psychopathy and criminality
• Crime and mental disorders
• Substance abuse and its role in criminal behaviour
• Crime typologies: Violent interpersonal crimes, Conventional property crimes, Public order crimes, White-collar and organized crimes, Cybercrimes 

Module 8: Legal Framework and Criminal Justice System

• Overview of legal systems: Civil vs. criminal law
• Key legal concepts: Mens rea, actus reus, and criminal responsibility
• Landmark legal cases shaping forensic psychology
• Role of forensic psychologists in the judicial process
• Expert witness testimony and its significance 

Module 9: Forensic Interviewing, Investigation, and Criminal Profiling

• Forensic Interviewing Techniques
• Lie Detection and Deception Analysis
• Criminal Profiling and Behavior Analysis
• Legal and Courtroom Applications 

Module 10: Victimology and Victim Services

• Psychological effects of victimization
• Multicultural perspectives on victimization
• Legal rights of victims
• Specific crime types and their impact on victims: Homicide, Sexual assault, Property crime, Internet victimization, Child sexual abuse and abductions
• Role of forensic psychologists in child abuse cases
• Intimate partner violence and elder abuse 

Module 11: Juvenile Delinquency and Youth Offenders

• Psychological development and risk factors in juvenile delinquency
• Legal approaches to juvenile crime
• Rehabilitation vs. punishment in youth offenders
• Case studies on juvenile offenders 

Module 12: Correctional Psychology and Rehabilitation

• Institutional corrections and psychological assessment in correctional settings
• Overview of correctional facilities and inmate rights
• Psychological rehabilitation and treatment programs for offenders
• Community-based corrections and reintegration strategies
• Juvenile justice system and rehabilitation approaches for young offenders
• Effectiveness of forensic psychology in reducing recidivism 

Module 13: Neurocriminology and Biological Perspectives in Forensic Psychology

• Introduction to Neurocriminology
• Brain Structure and Function in Criminal Behaviour
• Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Criminality
• The Role of Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) and Early Childhood Trauma in Criminal Behaviour
• Social and Biological Influences on Antisocial Behaviour
• Neuroscientific Advances in Risk Assessment and Rehabilitation 

Module 14: Case Study

Module 15: Capstone Project

Eligibility

Graduates in any discipline are eligible for our Post Graduate Diploma, Executive Diploma and Professional Certification Programmes.

Programme Duration

The minimum duration to complete the PG diploma programme is 12 months and maximum is 24 months. The minimum duration to complete the executive diploma programme is 6 months and maximum is 12 months.

Programme Mode

Registrations are currently open for regular and Part-time (Online Live Classes) both modes.

Programme Deliverables

A comprehensive study material for all the modules in hard copies ensuring the needs of the audience. The accompanying training material is appropriately aligned with the current Industry’s expectations.

• Assignments for all the programme modules for continuous evaluation and guidance.
• Interactive or online live sessions on all key areas of the programme giving all flexibility to the participants.
• Online classes for all the modules will be conducted on the weekends. Moreover, a doubt clearing session will also be scheduled before the examination
• All the efforts are made by IGMPI faculty members to make the entire programme modules easily understandable.
• Assessment and evaluation for all the programme modules in order to enhance the levels of competencies and skills of the participants leading towards the objective of application in the job.
• At the end of each programme modules, the trainers shall obtain feedback from the participants using specially designed questionnaires.
• All learning and training delivery initiatives shall be conducted in English.

Examination and Certification

All the participants are expected to appear for an online exam and are also obliged to submit assignments after each module. After successful completion, the participants will be awarded Post Graduate Diploma/Executive Diploma in Forensic Psychology by Centre for Health Management and Research, IGMPI. For all the above-mentioned modules, Online Classes (Online mode) or face-to-face classes (Regular mode), elaborate programme material, self-assessment assignments would be provided by the Institute. Details get updated on the webpage as well.

Placement Assistance & Corporate Relations

The Institute has partnered with many organizations for providing with placement assistance to its participants. Besides, it has a robust placement cell comprised of senior level Human Resources professionals and Talent Acquisition experts which maintains close links with business and industry. This cell is continuously engaged in promoting the employability of our participants and encouraging the concerned Human Resources department and Hiring Managers to recruit/hire our participants for their vacant positions. The efforts of our placement cell also include helping with professional resume writing & interview skills.

In recent months the Institute has witnessed more and more participation from professionals working with global healthcare giants like Healthcare Settings (Apollo, Max Healthcare, Fortis etc.), Corporate Wellness Centres (Amaha, Mantra Care, Nirawellness etc.), Health Coaching and Consultancy (The Health Science Academy, Aanya Wellness, Shreehi Consulting Services LLP etc.), Education and Training, NGO’s (Mindroot Foundation, The MIND foundation etc.), and Private Practices etc.

Future career prospects

As forensic psychology continues to evolve, the PG Diploma/Executive Diploma in Forensic Psychology will integrate advancements in criminal behavior research, forensic assessment techniques, and digital tools in investigative and legal settings. Future iterations will emphasize an interdisciplinary approach, incorporating insights from psychology, criminology, neuroscience, and law to address challenges such as offender rehabilitation, risk assessment, and victim support. The curriculum will expand to include cybercrime analysis, digital forensic investigations, and AI applications in profiling and deception detection. With a focus on trauma-informed care, cultural competence, and ethical forensic practice, the program will equip graduates to work effectively in law enforcement, correctional psychology, legal consultancy, and investigative roles. Additionally, the growing use of telepsychology and remote forensic evaluations will prepare students for virtual assessments, expert testimony, and cross-jurisdictional applications in an increasingly digital world.

View Prospectus

Apply Online

Last date for submitting completed Application Form: 29^th Dec 2025.

For further enquiries, call or write to us on:
18001031071 (Toll Free -9:00 am to 5:30 pm IST-except on Central Government holidays)/ info@igmpi.ac.in