University of Derby

Overview

The BSc (Hons) Forensic Psychology with Foundation Year at the University of Derby delves into the application of psychological theories within the criminal justice system. This course covers fundamental topics such as forensic assessment, offender behavior, and the influence of developmental and social contexts on risk management.

What you'll study

The program encompasses a Foundation Year for eligible students, followed by advanced BSc (Hons) level coursework. You will engage with core psychological principles and academic skills, progressing into specialized areas of forensic psychology, research methodologies, and evidence-based reporting.

Indicative modules

• Biological and Social Forensic Psychology
• Reporting Forensic Psychology
• Cognitive and Developmental Forensic Psychology
• Research Methods in Psychology
• Does Psychology Matter?

Learning is enhanced through research-led teaching and opportunities to collaborate with professionals in the criminal justice field. Assessment methods typically include a combination of written reports, academic essays, and research-focused tasks, fostering skills in evidence evaluation and effective communication of psychological findings.

Entry requirements

Admission to the program is generally based on UCAS points and relevant qualifications. Typical entry requirements include:

• UCAS points: 80
• A Levels: CDD
• BTEC: MMP
• GCSE: Preferred qualifications in Mathematics and English. If not held, students may have the opportunity to study these subjects at Level 2 during the course.
• Access to HE: Access to HE Diploma with 60 credits (including 45 at Level 3 and 15 at Level 2)

Career prospects

Graduates of this program can pursue diverse career paths in areas such as probation services, prisons, youth justice, and youth offending teams. There are also opportunities in research and policy roles within the criminal justice system. With further training, graduates may explore careers in teaching, education, or academic research.