Nottingham Trent University

What you'll study

This honours degree builds a solid foundation in core areas of psychology — biological, cognitive, social and developmental — while applying theory and research to forensic contexts. You study research methods and statistics for psychology and gain hands-on experience with experimental design and data analysis. Forensic-focused modules examine criminal behaviour, offender assessment and rehabilitation, victimology, the psychology of policing and investigative interviewing, and legal and ethical issues relevant to forensic practice.

Typical final-year work includes an independent research project (dissertation) addressing an applied forensic question and advanced modules that may cover topics such as risk assessment, forensic mental health, and evidence and testimony. Teaching methods combine lectures, seminars, laboratory sessions, practical workshops, case studies and opportunities for professional skills development. Where available, optional placement opportunities, client-focused projects or collaborations with criminal justice organisations allow you to apply classroom learning in real-world settings.

Entry requirements

Admissions look for evidence of academic ability and genuine interest in psychology or related social and behavioural sciences. Typical offers are based on a combination of A-levels, BTEC Nationals, Access to Higher Education diplomas, the International Baccalaureate or equivalent qualifications. Applicants should check the university's programme page for precise offer details.

Applicants are generally expected to demonstrate competence in English; a grade C/4 (or equivalent) in English language is commonly required. Some programmes also request a preferred level in mathematics or statistics, or recommend prior study in a science or social science. Mature applicants and those with relevant work or volunteer experience in criminal justice, social care or mental health are encouraged to apply; contextual information and personal statements are taken into account during selection.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with an understanding of psychological theory and research applicable to criminal justice and forensic settings. Direct entry to professional forensic psychologist posts requires postgraduate training and supervised practice; many students progress to specialist MSc or doctoral training in forensic or clinical psychology to achieve chartered status.

Career routes open to graduates include roles in policing and investigative services, probation and offender management, prisons and youth justice, forensic mental health services, victim and witness support, substance misuse services and research roles. Other common destinations are roles in allied fields such as social research, casework, advocacy, HR, and policy or analysis positions where investigative and analytical skills are valued.

Why study at Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent University offers a learning environment that emphasises applied learning and employability. The course is taught within a school that brings together expertise in psychology, criminology and social sciences, providing opportunities for interdisciplinary study and access to staff engaged in applied research. Students benefit from practical teaching facilities, research methods training, and support to secure placements or local partnerships with criminal justice organisations.

NTU places strong emphasis on personal development, small-group teaching and skills for professional practice, including communication, ethical awareness and research competence. The university’s location and links with regional agencies offer opportunities to gain experience relevant to forensic work while accessing careers support to plan postgraduate training or employment pathways after graduation.