Master of Philosophy in Forensic Mental Health

Purpose

The aim is to train competent forensic mental health workers to assess the psychological issues in designated individuals, and to rehabilitate mentally disordered offenders. This involves the development of excellent clinical skills in the assessment and treatment of offenders with mental health problems, and developing research and critical appraisal skills. This will include attaining skills in writing medico legal reports, providing expert testimony, and acquiring skills in dealing with civil litigation. The candidate will develop good communication skills and be able to work in a multidisciplinary team and work with multiple external agencies who may be caring for the mentally ill offender (state patient). A further aim is to develop teaching, leadership and management skills. It is hoped that the candidate will be a strong leader in the field of forensic mental health and also be an advocate for the mental health needs of mentally ill offenders.

Rationale

This qualification provides advanced training in the theory and practice of forensic mental health.

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for consideration, a candidate must have (a) a Master of Minimum admission requirements Master of Medicine in Psychiatry Medicine in Psychiatry of the University or another university recognised for this purpose, or a qualification recognised by the Senate as an equivalent (such as the fellowship in psychiatry from the College of Medicine of South Africa); or (b) a Master's Degree in clinical psychology of the University or another university recognised for this purpose, or a qualification deemed to be equivalent; or (c) a professional qualification in a mental health discipline such a social work, occupational therapy or nursing; or (d) an Bachelor of Laws (LLB) Degree of the University or another university recognised for this purpose, or a qualification deemed to be equivalent; or (e) a professional qualification with requisite experience deemed to be equivalent to any of the above. All candidates must be practising in, or have the intention to practise in, the psycholegal field.

This qualification comprises compulsory modules at Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

Compulsory Modules

• Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Forensic Mental Health Part 1 (PRY7013W) Level 9, 120 Credits.
• MPhil in Forensic Mental Health Part 2 (PRY7014W) Level 9, 60 Credits.

1. Develop clinical, research and teaching skills in forensic mental health, and have specific clinical skills in the specialist psychiatric assessment and treatment of offenders using a bio-psycho-social formulation that is culturally sensitive and includes differential diagnoses. This includes a specialist knowledge of psychopathology, assessment tools, medical investigations and treatment modalities including various psychological therapies and medical treatments.
2. Develop specialist skills and also be able to work at the primary and secondary care level to provide ongoing support to other community agencies.
3. Demonstrate leadership skills, and be an effective communicator with patients, families, colleagues and outside agencies.
4. Able to work in a multidisciplinary team as well as work with multiple agencies such as department of justice, correctional services, police and director of public prosecutions.
5. Teach junior colleagues and other professionals and families.
6. Develop ongoing professionalism, continuous learning, self-reflection, appraisal and leadership.
7. Take a lead in clinical governance, and be an advocate for forensic mental health services.
8. Have an in-depth understanding of ethical aspects in the field.

Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome

• Demonstrate required knowledge and clinical skills in forensic mental health and produce a dissertation.
• Assess the candidate' knowledge and minimum clinical skills in forensic mental health.

Integrated Assessment

On-going assessment of performance through regular supervision sessions and through oral and observed clinical examinations every six-month. At the end of the programme, candidates will have been assessed formally by means of in-course assessment reports (33%) a three-hour written Part 1 examination (33%) the presentation and examination of a dissertation (34% of total mark). (b) Part-time candidates will undergo the same in-course assessment and examination procedures but will be allowed an extra (third) year to complete coursework and dissertation requirements.