COURSE CURRICULUM

The BSc (Hons) Psychology and Criminology degree at Cardiff Met combines the scientific study of human behaviour with a critical understanding of crime and criminal justice. In the first year, students build a foundation in both disciplines, studying criminological theory, the criminal justice system, cognition, biopsychology, and the historical and conceptual issues in psychology, while developing essential research skills. In the second year, the focus shifts to advanced research methods, applied cognitive and biological psychology, and critical, social, and developmental psychology, alongside modules examining comparative criminal justice systems and understanding threats, risks, and harm in societal contexts. These modules provide both theoretical knowledge and practical insight into crime prevention, offender behaviour, and the functioning of justice systems. The final year allows students to specialise and apply their learning through modules addressing the race and gender dimensions of criminology, punishment and prison systems, homicide and violent crime, and applied forensic psychology, culminating in an independent project that integrates psychological and criminological research skills. Throughout the degree, students gain opportunities for hands-on experience, develop critical thinking and analytical abilities, and learn to apply theory to real-world situations. Graduates emerge with a strong interdisciplinary understanding of human behaviour, crime, and justice, equipped for careers in criminal justice, forensic psychology, and related fields or for further postgraduate study.