Criminology and Psychology

Criminology and psychology is a pairing that addresses one of the most compelling and practically important questions in social science: why do people commit crimes, and what can be done about it? Criminology examines crime as a social phenomenon, investigating the patterns of offending and victimisation, the social and structural factors that shape criminal behaviour, the operation of the criminal justice system, and the policies and practices of prevention and rehabilitation. Psychology provides the tools to examine the individual cognitive, emotional, and developmental processes that contribute to offending, and the therapeutic approaches that can support change.

At Coventry University, this three-year, full-time degree develops expertise in both disciplines. You will explore criminological theory and research alongside forensic psychology, the psychology of crime and mental health, and the interventions used in criminal justice settings. The programme is oriented towards practical relevance, preparing you for careers in preventative education, rehabilitation, and criminal justice more broadly.

A sandwich year, a year abroad, and a work placement are all available, giving you the opportunity to gain professional experience in relevant settings and to study criminology and psychology in a different national context. The typical entry tariff of 104 points reflects an accessible approach to admissions.

Criminology and psychology graduates work in probation, prison and community justice services, social work, police services, victim support organisations, schools and youth offending services, mental health services, and research. The combination is particularly well suited to roles in offender rehabilitation, risk assessment, and criminal justice intervention. Many graduates also go on to postgraduate study in criminology, forensic psychology, social work, or criminal justice, or pursue professional training in clinical or forensic psychology, which requires further academic qualification beyond the undergraduate degree.