MBA Business Administration
Staffordshire University's MBA Business Administration course offers a comprehensiv...
BSc (Hons) Forensic and Criminological Psychology
Stoke-on-Trent campus
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
Staffordshire University's BSc (Hons) Forensic and Criminological Psychology program offers students a comprehensive understanding of the intersection between psychology and the criminal justice system. This interdisciplinary program combines elements of psychology, criminology, and forensic science to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary for careers in forensic psychology and related fields. Through a blend of theoretical study, practical experience, and research projects, students explore topics such as criminal behavior, forensic assessment, investigative psychology, victimology, and the psychology of criminal justice processes. The program prepares students for roles in forensic psychology practice, research, policy, and advocacy, with a focus on promoting justice, reducing crime, and supporting victims and offenders.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BSc (Hons) Forensic and Criminological Psychology program covers a range of core topics in psychology, criminology, and forensic science. Students study modules such as introduction to forensic psychology, criminal behavior, forensic assessment and intervention, research methods in psychology, psychological theories of crime, victimology, criminal justice systems, and ethics in forensic practice. They also have the opportunity to select elective modules in areas such as forensic mental health, investigative psychology, forensic interviewing, and forensic neuroscience. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and evidence-based practice, preparing students to apply psychological principles and theories to real-world forensic contexts.
Research Focus: Staffordshire University places a strong emphasis on research within the BSc (Hons) Forensic and Criminological Psychology program. Students learn how to conduct research studies, analyze data, and critically evaluate research literature in psychology and criminology. Research-focused modules cover topics such as research design, quantitative and qualitative methods, data analysis techniques, literature review, and ethical considerations in research. Students may have the opportunity to participate in research projects supervised by faculty members or to conduct their own independent research projects on topics of interest within forensic and criminological psychology. The program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute to advancements in forensic psychology research and practice.
Industry Engagement: The university fosters strong links with professionals and organizations within the forensic psychology and criminal justice sectors to provide students with valuable industry engagement opportunities. Students have the chance to undertake work placements, internships, or volunteering roles with forensic psychology units, probation services, prisons, police departments, victim support organizations, or forensic mental health facilities. These experiences allow students to gain practical insights into the work of forensic psychologists, apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings, and build professional networks within the industry. The university also invites guest speakers from the field to deliver lectures, workshops, and seminars, exposing students to diverse perspectives and career pathways in forensic and criminological psychology.
Global Perspective: While the program primarily focuses on the UK context, Staffordshire University encourages students to consider the global dimensions of forensic and criminological psychology. Through the curriculum, students explore international research, policies, and practices in forensic psychology, comparing and contrasting approaches to crime prevention, criminal justice, and victim support across different countries and cultures. The university may offer opportunities for students to engage in international exchanges, study abroad programs, or research projects with an international focus, allowing them to gain insights into the global challenges and opportunities in forensic psychology. By fostering a global perspective, the program prepares students to address complex issues of crime, justice, and human behavior in diverse cultural contexts.
Location
Stoke-on-Trent campus
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 16750
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs are typically expected to have completed their secondary education with a minimum of 65% or above in their final exams.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 72, with at least 17 in Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59 with no individual score below 59.
- It is important to note that the English language requirements may vary slightly depending on the chosen program.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
Staffordshire University values diversity and aims to support international students in their academic journey. To make education more accessible and affordable, the university offers a range of scholarships specifically designed for international students. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and provide financial assistance to deserving students.
Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to exceptional international students who demonstrate academic excellence and outstanding achievements. The scholarship covers a significant portion of the tuition fees and is available for both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
International Merit Scholarship: Staffordshire University offers the International Merit Scholarship to high-achieving international students. The scholarship provides a reduction in tuition fees and is available for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Eligibility criteria are based on academic performance and other achievements.
GREAT Scholarships: Staffordshire University is part of the GREAT Scholarships program, which is funded by the UK government's GREAT Britain Campaign. The program offers scholarships to students from selected countries, supporting them in pursuing their studies at UK universities. The scholarships cover a portion of the tuition fees for specific programs.
International Sports Scholarship: Staffordshire University recognizes the talent and achievements of international students in sports. The International Sports Scholarship is awarded to outstanding student-athletes who have represented their country at the national or international level. The scholarship provides financial support and other benefits to help students balance their academic and sporting commitments.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Staffordshire University also offers scholarships specifically tailored to students from certain countries. These scholarships aim to promote cultural diversity and strengthen ties with partner institutions. Eligibility criteria, application procedures, and scholarship amounts may vary depending on the country-specific scholarships available.
It is important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary each year.
Graduates of Staffordshire University's BSc (Hons) Forensic and Criminological Psychology program possess a unique blend of knowledge and skills that prepare them for diverse career opportunities in the fields of psychology, criminology, and criminal justice. With a strong foundation in both psychology and criminology, graduates can pursue rewarding careers in various sectors.
Forensic Psychologist: One of the most common career paths for graduates of the BSc (Hons) Forensic and Criminological Psychology program is to become a forensic psychologist. Forensic psychologists work within the criminal justice system, applying psychological principles and methods to understand, assess, and treat individuals involved in legal proceedings. They may work in prisons, forensic hospitals, probation services, or private practice, conducting assessments of offenders, providing therapy to inmates, conducting research on criminal behavior, and offering expert testimony in court cases. Forensic psychologists also play a crucial role in risk assessment, rehabilitation programs, and interventions to reduce recidivism.
Criminal Profiler/Investigative Psychologist: Some graduates may choose to pursue careers as criminal profilers or investigative psychologists, specializing in the analysis of criminal behavior and the profiling of offenders. Criminal profilers work with law enforcement agencies to develop profiles of unknown offenders based on crime scene evidence, behavioral patterns, and psychological characteristics. They assist in criminal investigations, offering insights into offender motivations, personality traits, and modus operandi. Investigative psychologists may also work in research or consultancy roles, applying psychological theories and methods to understand criminal behavior and inform crime prevention strategies.
Victim Support Specialist: Graduates may also work in roles focused on supporting victims of crime and trauma. Victim support specialists provide emotional support, practical assistance, and advocacy services to individuals who have experienced victimization, such as victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or homicide. They may work for victim support organizations, charities, or government agencies, offering crisis intervention, counseling, court support, and referrals to other support services. Victim support specialists play a crucial role in helping individuals cope with the aftermath of crime, navigate the criminal justice system, and access appropriate resources and services.
Probation Officer/Offender Rehabilitation Worker: Another career option for graduates is to work as probation officers or offender rehabilitation workers within the criminal justice system. Probation officers supervise individuals on probation or community orders, helping them to reintegrate into society, comply with court requirements, and address underlying issues such as substance abuse or mental health problems. Offender rehabilitation workers may deliver interventions, programs, and support services to offenders in prison or community settings, aiming to reduce reoffending and promote desistance from crime.
Researcher/Academic: Graduates may pursue careers in research or academia, conducting research studies, contributing to academic literature, and teaching future generations of students. They may work in universities, research institutes, or government agencies, conducting research on topics such as crime prevention, forensic assessment, victimology, or the psychology of criminal behavior. They may also teach courses in psychology, criminology, or forensic science, sharing their expertise with students and mentoring aspiring professionals in the field.
