Criminology and Psychology

BA Criminology and Psychology explores the motivations of human behaviour and how the darker side of our nature is dealt with by the criminal justice system. This criminology and psychology degree combines key theories from both disciplines, offering a robust interdisciplinary approach.

Through modules tailored to this dual major in criminology and psychology, the course is designed to:

give well-rounded insights into real-world issues
explore how and why people do what they do
help you study a broader study of society’s reactions to deviant behaviour, the combined social sciences approach helps with this.
cover a wide range of topics from the motivations of serial killers, to state crimes and miscarriages of justice.
This dual major in criminology and psychology provides a foundation for students interested in careers with a criminology and psychology degree, such as forensic psychology, criminal profiling, or case management. Over three years of study, institutions such as the police, courts, prisons, and probation service will be reviewed; developing a deeper understanding of their processes, functions, and challenges. Taught by a blend of former practitioners, active researchers, and radical criminologists you will be exposed to a variety of perspectives and develop critical analysis skills.

Year 1:
Introduction to Crime and Punishment, Developing Skills for Justice (MW), Introduction to Cognitive and Developmental Psychology, Research Skills, Introduction to Biological and Social and Individual Differences, Criminal Justice Process.
Year 2:
Theoretical Criminology, Introduction to Forensic Psychology, Essential Skills for Justice (MW), Crime Policy into Practice, Individual Differences and Applications, Applied Research & Evaluation.

Year 3:
Project Criminology and Psychology, Leadership Skills for Justice (MW), Psychological Criminology, Researching Contemporary Issues in Cybercrime (Optional), Race, Ethnicity, Crime and Justice (Optional), Youth Crime, Gangs and Sub-culture (Optional), Policing and Criminal Investigation (Optional), Mentally Disordered Suspects, Defendants and Offenders (Optional), Occupational Psychology (Optional), Psychology of Emotion (Optional), Cyberpsychology (Optional), Psychology of Belief (Optional), Counselling Psychology (Optional), Health Psychology (Optional), Cognitive Neuropsychology (Optional).

Assessment tasks are mainly spread across the year to make the workload manageable. Assessment methods include group work, exams and individual work including essays, presentations, case studies, professional development and practical activities depending on the nature of the course.

All grades count towards your module mark. More details will be included in the student handbook and module guides. You will always receive detailed feedback outlining your strengths and how you can improve. We aim to provide feedback on assessments within 15 working days, although you will receive immediate feedback following many of our face-to-face assessments.