COURSE CURRICULUM

In the first year of the Forensic Psychology course, students follow a common curriculum shared with related psychology programs, offering a solid foundation across key areas in the discipline. This shared approach allows for collaborative learning and exposure to a variety of topics and potential career paths. Modules include Professional Practice in Psychology, which introduces essential academic and employability skills, encouraging reflective practice and professional development. Fundamental Concepts in Psychology explores core psychological theories across diverse themes such as identity, emotional development and relationships. The research component is split into two modules: Introducing Quantitative Research Methods, which teaches students how to design and evaluate studies using statistics, and Introducing Qualitative Research Methods, which focuses on conducting and analysing research through interviews, focus groups and other non-numerical methods. Additional modules include Psychology and Popular Culture, where students examine how psychological ideas are reflected in media and society, and Psychology of Mental Health and Wellbeing, which introduces major mental health conditions, as well as interventions and strategies to enhancewellbeing.Inn the second year, students build on foundational knowledge and begin to focus more on forensic applications. The Perspectives in Forensic Psychology module introduces theoretical frameworks explaining criminal behaviour through biological, social, developmental and cognitive lenses. Psychology of Culture, Gender and Sexuality takes a critical approach to how identity influences experiences in the criminal justice system, while Theories and Applications of Cybercrime looks at deviant online behaviours, including grooming and cyberbullying. Forensic Psychology in Context explores how psychological theories support both victims and offenders across the justice system. International Perspectives on Crime covers crimes with global impact, such as terrorism and hate crimes, and examines how psychology can help prevent and respond to them. The year also includes Research Methods and Project Planning, where students learn to conduct complex analyses and prepare proposals for future research projects.The final year focuses on refining professional and academic skills and preparing students for careers in forensic psychology or postgraduate study. Project Design and Ethics begins the dissertation process, guiding students through ethical approval and research design. In the Independent Research Project, students conduct and report on their chosen empirical study, applying the research skills acquired throughout the course. The final core module, Becoming a Forensic Psychologist, supports personal and professional development by focusing on key workplace competencies such as communication, problem solving and self-awareness. Through these modules, students consolidate their theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ready to take the next step into professional practice or further academic research.