BSc Psychology

Forensic psychology can be thought of as an umbrella term to bring together two different streams of research in psychology and law: legal psychology is the application of psychological research and methods to the process of law, and criminological psychology is the application of psychological research and methods to the understanding of criminal behaviour. This course aims to introduce students to some of the main topics and questions in forensic psychology, so that students can appreciate the different perspectives, methods and applications involved in the discipline. The course focuses on the application of research findings to the criminal justice system, and the understanding, treatment and reduction of criminal behaviour.

This is an optional Year 2 course unit for the BSc (Hons) Psychology programme which falls within the Psychology in Society theme. 

This unit aims to:

• To explore the diversity of psychological enquiry as it applies to law and criminal behaviour.
• To demonstrate the application of psychological research findings to the criminal justice system and the understanding, treatment and prevention of offending behaviour.
• To introduce students to the workings of the criminal justice system.
• To enable students to further develop important transferrable skills in critical and analytical thinking, and presentation of an argument.
• To provide students with a broad introduction to forensic psychology to help inform career choices. 

This course will include 10 hours of lectures and one 2-hour workshop. E-learning provision: Lecture content, supplementary reading and resources, and a monitored discussion board will be provided via Canvas.

• Describe and critically evaluate key theories and research findings in different areas of forensic psychology
• Use research findings to evaluate procedures within the criminal justice system and offer recommendations where appropriate 

• Apply scientific research to forensic situations
• Put forward practical suggestions to improve an aspect of the criminal justice system, based on high-quality psychological evidence
• Make a reasoned argument for a particular point of view
• Synthesise, analyse, and evaluate information using primary sources, including journal articles and policy documents 

• Use library, electronic and on-line resources to research areas of forensic psychology 

• Understand the different career pathways into forensic psychology
• Communicate evidence-based arguments effectively in writing 

Students will receive a grade and written feedback 20 working days after the final submission deadline

References will be provided each week