BSc (Hons) Criminal Psychology

What you will study

Year 1 (Level 4)

Your first year is all about building the foundations to thrive in the world of criminal psychology. You’ll sharpen your academic and research skills while exploring what drives criminal behaviour and how society responds. From understanding how crime is defined to examining the role of psychology in the justice system, this year sets the stage for an exciting journey into the complex relationship between psychology, criminal behaviour, and the systems designed to support both accountability and rehabilitation. 

Modules:

Study Skills: This module will develop the skills necessary for you to study Psychology in a higher education environment. You will develop both general, and subject specific skills including essay writing, research report writing, digital literacy skills, presentation skills, and APA formatting. The module will also allow you to develop strategies for approaching a range of assignments.

Research Methods 1: This module will introduce you to the nature, philosophy, and scope of research methods in psychology. You will gain an appreciation for the different philosophical positions that underpin research, as well as the fundamentals and principles of different approaches, covering both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. The module will give you a basic knowledge of the research process, research methods, the importance of ethics, and current debates within research.

Research Methods 2: Within this module you will build on the knowledge you have acquired in research methods 1. The module will allow you to develop an appreciation for different approaches to data analysis, considering both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. You will also acquire a basic level of knowledge and understanding of the data analysis process including an appreciation of the strengths and limitations of these approaches. This module will allow you to develop your practical research skills through conducting a piece of research.

Social Development: This module will introduce you to psychological concepts, theories, and methods relevant to social development. Within this module you will learn about topics such as attachment, moral development, theory of mind, attribution, social perception, prosocial behaviour, and social influence from both a developmental and social perspective.

Introduction to Criminology and Criminal Justice
Explore what crime really means in society. This module introduces key criminological concepts such as moral panic, the social construction of crime, crime statistics, and the dark figure of crime. You’ll also examine the roles of the different agencies that make up the criminal justice system- from policing to the crown prosecution service and prisons. Hear directly from professionals and experts working in the field, bringing real-world insight into your lectures.

Attachment and Crime: This module applies attachment theory to understand problematic developmental prospects within forensic populations. The focus on attachment theory presents an approach that seeks to understand the influence of relationships on personality and social development. The module interrogates attachment theory research approaches that investigate adverse experiences most likely to lead to poor social functioning and criminal behaviour.

Introduction to Forensic Psychology
This module introduces you to the core principles and practices of forensic psychology. You'll explore how psychological theory is applied in criminal justice settings, gaining insight into the relationship between psychology, crime, and the legal system. It offers a strong foundation for further exploration in this specialist area.

Year 2 (Level 5)

In your second year, you'll build on foundational knowledge by exploring more specialised areas within criminal psychology. You'll examine complex issues such as high-risk behaviours, neurodiversity, and the role of rehabilitation within custodial and community settings. You'll also continue to develop your understanding of research methods and data analysis, strengthening your ability to critically evaluate evidence and practice. This year encourages deeper reflection on how crime, behaviour, and justice are shaped by wider social and systemic factors.

Modules:

Personality and Individual Differences: This module will encourage you to examine the concepts of personality and intelligence (including emotional intelligence). You will be able to develop an appreciation of the ways in which these concepts influence the behaviour of the individual in everyday life. The module will also allow you to gain an in-depth understanding of psychometric tests employed in the field.

Research Methods 3: Within this module, you will build on the knowledge and understanding you have acquired in research methods 1 and 2. You will gain a working knowledge of qualitative and quantitative methodologies for data analysis, along with developing an appreciation of the strengths and limitations of different approaches. You will also gain practical data analysis skills and develop confidence in selecting the appropriate analytical method for the research question. Within this module you will develop a research proposal which will inform your dissertation research project.

Cognitive and Behavioural Neuroscience: In this module, you will be introduced to classic and current theories relating to neuroscience. You will also develop critical evaluation skills relating to these theories. You will gain knowledge of a range of areas in cognitive and behavioural neuroscience, including physiology of the central nervous system, sleep and biological rhythms, and pharmacology. You will also learn about neuroscientific techniques used for research and assessment.

High Risk and Dangerous: Explore the complexities of extreme and high-risk behaviours in this thought-provoking module. You’ll examine a range of serious crimes, gaining insight into how society defines, understands, and responds to individuals considered dangerous. Through a critical lens, you’ll consider the social, legal, and psychological factors that shape our responses to some of the most challenging issues in contemporary criminal justice.

Neurodiversity in Practice
 This module explores how criminal justice and psychological services can better understand and support neurodivergent individuals. You’ll critically examine the barriers faced by neurodiverse populations, with a focus on inclusive practice, accessibility, and ethical engagement. This module looks at how professionals can work compassionately and effectively in a range of settings.

Working in Custodial and Community Settings: Gain an insight into what it means to work with individuals in both prison and community justice settings. This module focuses on developing the professional skills and reflective practice needed to build effective, respectful working relationships and support rehabilitation. You’ll explore approaches to reducing reoffending, promoting positive change, and understanding the complex needs of people within the criminal justice system.

Year 3 (Level 6)

In your final year, you’ll bring together everything you’ve learned to critically examine advanced issues in criminal psychology and justice. You’ll explore complex themes such as trauma, vulnerability, multi-agency responses, and life inside the prison system, while also completing your own independent research project. This year challenges you to think deeply and reflect critically on the systems, policies, and practices shaping the lives of those within the criminal justice system.

Modules:

Research Methods 4: This module will build on prior research methods modules covered at level 4 and 5. You will further develop your knowledge of approaches to data analysis and further develop confidence in selecting the most appropriate method for the research question posed. Within this module you will also build your critical analysis skills in relation to the philosophical underpinnings of research methods, along with different methodologies and methods used.

Research Project Dissertation:
This is your opportunity to design and complete your own independent research project on a topic that interests you. Building on your knowledge of theory and research methods from previous years, you’ll plan your study, carry out data collection, analyse your findings, and present your work in both written and oral formats. This module allows you to showcase your skills, creativity, and critical thinking in an area you're passionate about.

Forensic Psychology: Within this module, you will critically discuss and apply psychological theories and research in forensic psychology. You will learn about different areas of forensic psychology including theories of crime, terrorism, mental health and crime, offender profiling and eyewitness testimony. You will also learn about forensic psychology as a profession, and the psychology of the courtroom.

Multi-Agency Working in the Criminal Justice System:
Explore how effective collaboration across services can shape outcomes in the criminal justice system. This module looks at how agencies such as the police, social services, probation, and healthcare providers work together to support individuals and manage risk. You’ll examine the benefits and challenges of joined-up working, with a focus on improving outcomes and promoting more holistic, person-centred approaches.

Clinical and Health Psychology (Optional):  Within this module, you will develop a critical understanding of the role of social, psychological, and biological factors on physical and psychological health. This will include topics such as health inequalities, health promotion and behaviour change, pain and pain management, psychopathology, and assessment and formulation. You will also learn about clinical and health psychology as a profession.

Trauma, Vulnerability, and Wellbeing in Policing (Optional):
This module explores how trauma and vulnerability affect individuals’ experiences within the criminal justice system, with a particular focus on the role of the police. You’ll critically examine how policing practices can both support and challenge the wellbeing of those they engage with, including victims, suspects, and officers themselves. The module promotes compassionate, reflective approaches to safeguarding and public protection.

Life Inside Prisons, Prisoners and Penology (Optional):
This module offers a critical exploration of life behind bars. You’ll examine the purpose and impact of imprisonment, the lived experiences of people in custody, and the systems that govern daily life in prison. Topics include punishment, rehabilitation, power, and control, as well as the challenges faced by both prisoners and staff. The module encourages reflection on how prisons operate and whether they achieve the goals they set out to meet.

All modules are subject to validation.

The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal academic framework review, so may be subject to change.

Entry requirements & applying

The academic requirements for the course are:

• 96-112 UCAS points
• GCSE grade C/4 or equivalent in Maths and English/Welsh (first language)

For applicants without formal qualifications, work experience in appropriate areas will be considered on an individual basis.

Teaching & Assessment

A variety of authentic assessment strategies are used to assess your application of theory and research to practice. Assessments are inclusive and designed to support learners in an equitable way, ensuring that transferable real-world skills are developed across all levels of the degree. Assessments include essays, presentations, case studies, research reports, coursework and exams. In your final year, you’ll complete a research project (dissertation) on a topic of your choice. This independent project is your opportunity to showcase your ability to apply theoretical knowledge and research skills to a real-world issue within criminal psychology.

Teaching is delivered through inclusive and accessible methods, with students typically attending face-to-face sessions across multiple days each week, depending on module choices and timetabling. With theoretical knowledge consolidated via practical sessions.  You’ll also have opportunities to take part in optional site visits to criminal justice settings, such as a crown court and a working prison.

Career prospects

Our dedicated Careers and Employability team is committed to helping you achieve your professional goals. They provide personalised advice, useful resources, and extracurricular employability events to prepare you for the job market.

Graduates of this course can pursue careers in: 

• Criminal Justice and Support Services
• Forensic psychology (with postgraduate study and HCPC registration)
• Probation and rehabilitation services
• Youth justice and youth work
• Offender management and behaviour change programmes
• Victim support and advocacy
• Policing and criminal investigation support
• Prison-based roles
• Court and legal support services
• Policy and research roles in government or the third sector
• Community outreach and crime prevention

Other Psychology-Related Areas (with further study):

• Clinical psychology
• Counselling psychology
• Educational psychology
• Health psychology
• Occupational psychology
• Neuropsychology
• Sport and exercise psychology
• Academic research and teaching
• Mental health support and intervention roles
• Human resources and organisational development

Additionally, you may choose to further your expertise through postgraduate studies. Explore our postgraduate courses for more information.

Fees & funding

You do not have to pay your tuition fees upfront.

The fees you pay and the support available will depend on a number of different factors. Full information can be found on our fees & finance pages. You will also find information about what your fees include in the fee FAQs.

All fees are subject to any changes in government policy, view our undergraduate fees.

For international students looking to study this course please see our international fees.

Accommodation

At Wrexham University, we offer on-campus en-suite rooms within our Wrexham Student Village. These private, fully furnished spaces are conveniently located, providing easy access to campus facilities, study areas, and social spaces. Plus, you’re just a 10-minute walk from the city centre!

With all bills included, free Wi-Fi, 24/7 security, and large social areas, you’ll find everything you need for a great student experience.

Explore our student accommodation options to find your perfect home away from home.

Subject to validation

Courses shown as “subject to validation” are new courses which are in development and the details of these courses are in the process of being finalised through the approval cycle, known as the ‘validation’ process. As soon as the programmes are validated the details of the course will be confirmed. The majority of new courses that are still ‘subject to validation’ are approved by the validation process; however, this is not guaranteed and should the course not go ahead as planned, or be significantly amended, you will be informed by the university and assistance will be provided to those who have been offered a place to find a suitable alternative course either at Wrexham University or at another provider.

International

This course is open to international students, for information about the university’s entry requirements for EU/international students, please visit our international section.