Studying Psychology with Criminology

The BSc (Hons) Psychology with Criminology is an interdisciplinary degree exploring human behaviour and the social factors that influence crime.

You will examine offending from psychological and criminological perspectives, gaining insight into the causes of crime, the workings of the criminal justice system, and the impact on victims. Practical learning is embedded through specialist facilities, such as a mock custody suite for role-plays on topics like Punishment and Prisons. Delivered by experts from both disciplines, this course develops skills for careers in forensic psychology, probation, victim support, and other justice-related fields.

Optional modules include:

• A research assistantship, where you’ll work on live research projects alongside academic experts

• Offender Management: This module provides detailed knowledge of contemporary policies and procedures, specifically designed for the Offender Management pathway. To prepare you for employment in the custodial sector, many sessions are delivered by HMPPS staff and include practical role-play scenarios.

• Serial Killers: This module explores the complex nature of serial murder while honing your critical analysis skills. It encourages deep engagement with traditional and contemporary criminological theories, fostering a dedicated approach to academic reading and independent research.

You can also choose to take a placement year, gaining invaluable hands-on experience that will enhance your employability and future career prospects.

Psychologist in training

As a psychologist specialising in criminology, you will master data analysis and scientific reporting to investigate the drivers of human behaviour. Beyond core psychology, you will immerse yourself in specialised modules covering advanced criminological perspectives, victimology, and offender management, developing the critical expertise needed to solve real-world challenges in the justice system.

You’ll benefit from access to our state-of-the-art Science Centre, featuring cognitive research cubicles, psychophysiology equipment, simulation machines and observation suites.

Please take some time to browse the information on this page. I believe it highlights what makes us stand out from other universities, whilst also giving you a clear insight into what to expect during your degree, especially in your first few weeks and throughout your first year.

The Psychology and Criminology course has approximately 35 students at each level of study. This is a group of students who you will see particularly regularly in your weekly smaller taught sessions and your course specific specialist modules. In other sessions you will be part of a larger group of all our psychology undergraduate students, so will have chance to connect with the wider cohort. This means that the courses are not too big, and you will get to know both your peers and the people who teach you.

Within the psychology department at the University of Staffordshire there is also a student led Psychology Society. This is a group run by students for students. They run a range of weekly events, including study sessions that brings together students across all levels. Members often describe the society as a second family, offering support, and friendship that make university life more enjoyable and less lonely.