BSc (Hons) Psychology and Criminology

Overview

Psychology is the science of mind and behaviour and considers both individuals and groups. A range of normal and abnormal human behaviours is studied.

Criminology is concerned with the nature, patterns and explanations of criminal behaviour. For the criminology part of the degree students will examine the changing patterns of criminal behaviour, a range of explanations, and the repercussions for the individual and society.

Students will develop a questioning and critical approach to the understanding of human and criminal behaviour, as well as skills in analysing theories and evidence and applying research methods to develop knowledge.

Content and Modules

First year modules

• Social Science Research Skills (Core)
• Foundations of Biological and Cognitive Psychology
• Foundations of Social and Developmental Psychology
• Key Thinkers in Criminology
• Law for Criminologists
• Sociology and the Modern World

Second year modules

• Quantitative Data in Social Science (C)
• Qualitative Data in Social Science (C)
• Biological and Cognitive Psychology
• Social and Developmental Psychology
• Criminological Theory and Social Control
• Criminal Justice Systems

Third year modules

• Research Dissertation (C)
• Applied Studies (C)

With a choice of 1 or 2 modules from:

• Personality and Intelligence
• Cognition
• Psychology and Technology
• Contemporary Issues in Psychology
• Abnormal Psychology
• Forensic Psychology
• Contemporary Issues in Criminology

1 (if only 1 psychology option chosen) from:

• Penology
• Human Rights
• Victims of Crime
• Forensic Psychology

All modules are assessed using a range of assessment methods including structured essays, reports, case studies, critiques, reviews and formal examinations.

Further Information

Employers value the qualities and skills of Psychology and Criminology graduates, and most students find suitable work within a short time of graduation. A number of students also go on to study a Masters or PGCE in a related subject.

Typical employers include local and central government industry, commerce, the NHS, the prison service, the probation service, education authorities, further and higher education institutions, and charitable, counselling and voluntary organisations.