Program Overview:
This three-year degree combines core psychology with criminology, examining criminal behaviour from both psychological and societal perspectives. It’s ideal for students fascinated by the causes of crime, the criminal justice system, and rehabilitation.
Curriculum Structure
Year One
You’ll study foundational modules such as Introduction to Psychology, Introduction to Criminology, Research Methods, and Psychobiology. This year builds your understanding of psychological principles alongside criminological theories.
Year Two
Modules include Cognitive and Social Psychology, Forensic Psychology, Crime and Society, and Research Design. You’ll explore criminal behaviour, legal processes, and apply psychological research methods.
Year Three
The final year focuses on advanced topics like Offender Profiling, Youth Justice, Psychological Interventions, and an independent Research Project. This stage allows in-depth study and practical application of criminology and psychology.
Focus areas:
Forensic psychology, criminal behaviour, legal systems, offender rehabilitation, research skills.
Learning outcomes:
Graduates will understand psychological theories of crime, apply research techniques, critically evaluate criminological policies, and prepare for careers in criminal justice or psychology.
Professional alignment (accreditation):
The psychology component is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), providing Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC).
Reputation (employability rankings):
The University of Plymouth is known for applied research and practical teaching in psychology and criminology, with strong industry links supporting graduate employability.
This programme combines psychological principles with criminological theory, giving you practical skills through a mix of academic study and real-world application.
Key practical experiences include:
Access to dedicated psychology labs with facilities for cognitive testing, neuropsychology, and behavioural experiments
Modules incorporating real case studies and applied projects linking psychology and criminology
Opportunities for placements in relevant settings such as community services, probation, or youth justice organisations
Group work and presentations developing teamwork and communication skills essential for professional settings
Final-year research project supervised by expert staff, allowing you to investigate a topic combining psychology and criminology
Graduates develop a versatile skillset suited to careers in criminal justice, mental health, research, and community support.
Typical roles include:
Probation Officer, Forensic Psychology Assistant, Crime Analyst, Youth Worker
Career and academic support includes:
Dedicated careers service offering tailored advice, job-search support, and employer engagement events
A growing network of placement and internship opportunities to build work experience
Preparation for professional qualifications or postgraduate study in forensic psychology, criminology, or related fields
Further Academic Progression
Graduates can progress to postgraduate courses in forensic psychology, clinical psychology, criminology, or other social sciences, enhancing their expertise and career options.
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