Psychology & Criminology

This course is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and forms the essential component for Stage 1 of the Chartership process towards becoming a Chartered Forensic Psychologist. The course offers some students the opportunity of ongoing work experience placements with local prisons and the local forensic secure unit.

It aims to provide an advanced and up-to-date understanding of theoretical and applied issues in forensic psychology. It integrates the development of an appropriate psychological and professional knowledge base with training in many of the professional skills utilised in practice. The course also emphasises the importance of ongoing assessment, intervention and throughcare, and highlights the role of the forensic psychologist as a project manager, consultant, investigator and practitioner. The course strikes an excellent balance between aspects of investigative psychology and the applied professional and clinical aspects of practice as a forensic psychologist.

How you learn

The course utilises seminars and lectures. There are aspects of self-directed learning in some modules and applied learning including visits to courts and specialist expert external speakers. There is also the possibility for some students to engage with placements with a local forensic unit, the Hutton Centre and prisons in the North East of England.

How you are assessed

The course is assessed using a variety of methods, formative and summative. These include traditional essay writing, applied assignments including functional analysis reports, the development of training plans and the delivery of evidence and cross-examination in the unique Court Room facility at the University.

Professional accreditation

This course is accredited by the British Psychological Society. This will give students Stage 1 of the two-stage process towards becoming a Chartered Forensic Psychologist.

Career opportunities

After Stage 1, students can become Chartered Forensic Psychologists by enrolling for Stage 2 of the BPS Diploma and undertaking supervised practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a good honours degree in psychology (normally 2.1 or above) and the Graduate Basis for Registration as recognised by the BPS. Some work experience in a relevant field, voluntary or otherwise, is also recommended although not essential for applicants.

For additional information please see the undergraduate and postgraduate entry requirements in our admissions section

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