Psychology with Criminology

Psychology with criminology is a combination that reflects the deep intellectual connections between the two disciplines. Psychology is the scientific study of mind, behaviour, and experience, covering everything from the biological bases of behaviour and cognitive processes to social influence, development, abnormal psychology, and wellbeing. Criminology examines crime as a social phenomenon: who commits offences, why, what the consequences are for victims and communities, and how the criminal justice system responds.

The two disciplines speak to each other directly: understanding criminal behaviour, the psychology of offenders, the impact of victimisation, and the effectiveness of interventions all require the conceptual and empirical tools that psychology provides.

The part-time Psychology with Criminology programme at Birmingham City University is accredited by the British Psychological Society, which means the psychology component meets the requirements for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership, the first step towards professional qualification as a psychologist. Psychology forms the major component of the programme at seventy per cent, with criminology making up thirty per cent, giving you a strong grounding in both fields without losing the depth of scientific psychological training that accreditation requires. The programme includes a sandwich year and work placement options, providing professional experience in relevant settings before you complete your degree.

Studying part-time allows you to balance your studies with work or other commitments.

Graduates are well placed for careers in the criminal justice system, probation, police psychology, social work, community support, educational settings, and a wide range of roles in health and human services. The BPS accreditation provides a foundation for those who wish to pursue postgraduate training as psychologists, including clinical, forensic, educational, or counselling psychology.