Criminology with Psychology

Criminology with psychology is a combination that addresses crime and human behaviour from two complementary angles. Criminology examines why crime occurs, how it is defined and measured, how the criminal justice system responds, and what approaches to prevention and rehabilitation are most effective. Psychology asks how the mind works: what drives motivation, how decisions are made, how personality develops, and how psychological factors contribute to antisocial behaviour, offending, and the experience of victimisation.

Together they produce a degree with real depth for anyone seeking to understand crime as a human, social and psychological phenomenon.

At the University of Northampton this four-year programme includes an integrated foundation year, which provides an entry route for ambitious and motivated students who need additional academic preparation before beginning the main degree curriculum. Once established in the main programme, you will engage with criminological theory, criminal justice practice, psychological research methods, and the application of psychological knowledge to forensic and criminal justice settings. You will develop skills in research, critical analysis, and written argument across both disciplines, building a broad and rigorous understanding of crime and human behaviour.

Graduates of criminology with psychology are well prepared for careers in probation, youth justice, the prison service, police, social care, criminal justice research and policy, victim support, and a wide range of roles in the public, voluntary and community sectors working with people affected by crime. The psychology component also supports progression into postgraduate training in forensic psychology, counselling, clinical psychology, or social work. The combination is particularly valued in settings that require both an analytical understanding of why crime occurs and the ability to work sensitively and effectively with individuals who have offended or been harmed.

Postgraduate study in criminology, forensic psychology, social work, or criminal justice management is a common next step.