MA Migration Studies
The MA in Migration and Refugee Studies at Sussex is a one-year full-time or two-year p...
BSc (Hons) Psychology with Criminology
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BSc (Hons) Psychology with Criminology program at the University of Sussex offers a multidisciplinary approach to understanding the intersections between psychology and criminology. This degree equips students with a strong foundation in psychological principles while integrating insights from criminology to explore criminal behavior, the criminal justice system, and societal responses to crime. The program is ideal for those interested in careers in criminal justice, law enforcement, forensic psychology, or social research, providing a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills that are highly applicable in real-world criminal and legal contexts.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the BSc (Hons) Psychology with Criminology program is carefully structured to ensure students gain comprehensive knowledge in both fields. In the early years, students study core psychology topics, including cognitive, developmental, and social psychology, alongside criminology modules covering the foundations of criminal behavior, crime theory, and the criminal justice system. As the program progresses, students delve into specialized areas such as forensic psychology, criminal investigation, and the psychology of crime. The latter years focus on research methods and offer the opportunity for independent projects or placements, where students can apply their learning in practical settings related to criminology or criminal psychology.
Research Focus: The research focus of this program is centered around understanding the psychological underpinnings of criminal behavior, criminal justice processes, and the social and psychological impact of crime. Students are encouraged to engage in cutting-edge research on topics such as criminal profiling, forensic psychology, crime prevention, and the rehabilitation of offenders. Faculty members at Sussex are involved in diverse research areas, including the psychological impact of victimization, the effectiveness of crime prevention strategies, and the role of psychological assessments in the criminal justice system. The program provides students with opportunities to participate in ongoing research projects, developing their research skills and preparing them for careers in research and applied psychology.
Industry Engagement: The University of Sussex has strong links with the criminal justice sector, offering students numerous opportunities for industry engagement. The program benefits from partnerships with law enforcement agencies, forensic institutions, and social justice organizations, providing students with valuable internship and placement opportunities. These industry engagements allow students to gain practical experience and apply theoretical knowledge in real-world criminal justice settings. The program also invites guest speakers from the criminal justice and forensic psychology fields to share their expertise and insights, further enhancing students’ understanding of the profession.
Global Perspective: The BSc (Hons) Psychology with Criminology program at Sussex emphasizes a global perspective on crime and justice. Students are encouraged to explore how criminal behavior and criminal justice systems differ across cultures and regions, fostering an understanding of the global nature of crime and its impact on societies. The program includes opportunities for international placements or study abroad, allowing students to gain a deeper understanding of crime and justice in various cultural contexts. This global outlook equips graduates with the skills to work in international criminal justice roles or to address global crime-related issues, such as human trafficking, terrorism, and transnational crime.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 23175
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
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 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.
Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.
The BSc (Hons) Psychology with Criminology program at the University of Sussex provides graduates with the knowledge and skills needed for a variety of rewarding careers that intersect with criminal justice, law enforcement, forensic psychology, and social research. This multidisciplinary degree prepares students to understand both the psychological and criminological aspects of crime, offering them diverse career options in various sectors, from public services to private industry.
Forensic Psychologist: One of the key career paths for graduates of this program is forensic psychology. As forensic psychologists, graduates apply psychological principles to the criminal justice system, helping to assess offenders, provide counseling to victims, and offer insights into criminal behavior. They may work in prisons, rehabilitation centers, courts, or law enforcement agencies, using their expertise to assess the mental state of criminals, advise on sentencing, and contribute to criminal investigations. Further study, such as a master’s degree in forensic psychology, is typically required for this career path.
Criminal Investigator or Detective: Graduates can pursue careers in law enforcement as criminal investigators or detectives, where they use their understanding of criminal behavior and psychology to investigate crimes, solve cases, and gather evidence. These professionals work in police departments, government agencies, or private security firms, utilizing both criminological theory and psychological insights to identify suspects, interpret behavior, and work toward criminal justice outcomes. This role involves practical fieldwork, as well as analysis of crime patterns and criminal psychology.
Victim Support Specialist: Graduates can also choose to work as victim support specialists, offering assistance and counseling to victims of crime. These professionals help victims cope with the emotional and psychological effects of crime, providing support in navigating the legal process and connecting them with resources such as therapy, legal aid, and community services. This role often involves working with vulnerable populations and requires strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and an understanding of trauma psychology.
Probation Officer: Another potential career option for graduates is working as a probation officer. Probation officers supervise offenders who have been released from prison or are serving sentences outside of prison, ensuring they comply with legal conditions and receive support to reintegrate into society. They work closely with offenders to assess their needs, develop rehabilitation plans, and monitor their progress. A background in criminology and psychology equips graduates to work effectively with individuals involved in the criminal justice system, contributing to rehabilitation and crime prevention.
Crime Analyst: Crime analysts use data to identify crime patterns and trends, providing law enforcement agencies with valuable information that can aid in crime prevention and investigation. Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Psychology with Criminology program can apply their knowledge of criminological theories and psychological insights to analyze crime data, assess risk factors, and create strategies to combat crime. This role involves using statistical tools and analytical methods to inform policy and decision-making in law enforcement and criminal justice.
Social Worker (Focus on Criminal Justice or Youth Offenders): Graduates can pursue a career as a social worker with a focus on the criminal justice system or youth offenders. Social workers help individuals involved in the criminal justice system, particularly those from vulnerable backgrounds, by providing counseling, advocating for their rights, and helping them access support services. They play a crucial role in rehabilitation, aiming to reduce recidivism and support positive social integration for individuals leaving prison or involved in the justice system.
Criminology Researcher or Policy Analyst: The program also prepares graduates for roles in criminology research and policy analysis. In these roles, graduates use their knowledge of criminological theory and research methods to conduct studies on crime prevention, criminal behavior, and the effectiveness of justice system interventions. Researchers in criminology may work in academic institutions, think tanks, or government agencies, contributing to evidence-based policymaking and helping to improve crime reduction strategies. Graduates can also work in social policy organizations, influencing the development of public policies related to crime and justice.
Juvenile Justice Specialist: Graduates interested in working with young offenders can pursue careers as juvenile justice specialists. These professionals work within the juvenile justice system, providing assessments, support, and rehabilitation for young people who have been involved in criminal activity. Their role often involves working with families, schools, and community programs to prevent reoffending and support the personal development of young individuals.
Legal and Paralegal Roles: For those interested in law, graduates can work in legal and paralegal roles related to criminal justice. While additional legal qualifications may be necessary, the criminology and psychology background is valuable in roles such as a paralegal or legal assistant in law firms specializing in criminal law. Graduates can assist in case preparation, research, and client support, applying their understanding of criminal behavior and justice system processes to assist legal professionals.
Prison Officer or Rehabilitation Worker: Graduates can work as prison officers or rehabilitation workers, where they are responsible for maintaining safety and order in correctional facilities while assisting in the rehabilitation of offenders. The understanding of psychological principles of behavior and criminological theories equips graduates to work effectively with inmates, helping them address issues that contribute to criminal behavior and aiding their successful reintegration into society after release.
Public Policy Advisor (Criminal Justice Focus): Graduates can work as public policy advisors or consultants with a focus on criminal justice reform. These professionals analyze crime-related data, advocate for changes in laws and policies, and provide recommendations to government bodies, non-profit organizations, or advocacy groups. They work on issues such as prison reform, rehabilitation programs, and crime prevention strategies, contributing to the development of fair and effective criminal justice policies.
