Criminology with Psychology

Criminology with psychology is a combination that brings two disciplines together to understand human behaviour in relation to crime. Criminology examines how crime is defined, measured, and explained at a social and structural level, asking how criminal justice systems operate, what causes crime, and how punishment, rehabilitation, and prevention can be made more effective. Psychology contributes an understanding of individual behaviour, cognitive processes, emotion, development, and the mental health dimensions of criminal behaviour.

Together they equip you with the theoretical depth and research skills to engage seriously with some of the most important questions in social science.

At Teesside University, this four-year full-time programme includes a foundation year that introduces you to the historical and contemporary development of social science disciplines, exploring how theory is applied in practice and fostering interdisciplinary thinking. You will explore both the similarities and differences between criminology and psychology, learning about academic standards, ethical guidelines, and research protocols, and developing both study and transferable skills relevant to your studies and future career. The foundation year provides a smooth and structured entry into degree-level study for students entering from non-standard backgrounds or who would benefit from additional academic preparation.

With a typical entry tariff of 104 UCAS points, this programme is accessible to students motivated to understand crime and behaviour across both social and individual levels. Graduates pursue careers in probation and offender management, youth justice, police services, victim support, social care, mental health services, forensic settings, and policy and research roles. Those wishing to become forensic or clinical psychologists will require further postgraduate study and supervised experience.

Many graduates also continue to postgraduate study in criminology, forensic psychology, social work, or criminal justice policy.