Bachelor of Science (Honours) - Forensic Psychology

The BSc (Hons) Forensic Psychology degree at Derby is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), conferring eligibility for Graduate Membership of the Society, which represents the first step toward becoming a Chartered Psychologist. The programme focuses on real-life criminal justice challenges and the exploration of potential solutions, covering contemporary topics such as hate crime, domestic abuse, and murder investigations. Subject to availability and travel restrictions, educational field trips to settings such as courts and prisons provide valuable professional insights, complemented by contributions from criminal justice professionals who share industry experience. Teaching is delivered by a team of leading experts actively engaged in influential research within the field. Students are supported to conduct original research and contribute to the growing knowledge base in forensic psychology, with additional opportunities to achieve a professional qualification in youth justice.

This stimulating degree examines key questions surrounding criminal behaviour, including its development, the nature of psychopathy, the reliability of eyewitness testimony, and effective methods of offender rehabilitation. It is one of the few integrated programmes in the UK that focuses specifically on the intersection of psychology and the criminal justice system. Forensic psychology continues to play an expanding role in informing professional practice, with increasing demand for graduates capable of applying subject knowledge across diverse roles and settings within the justice sector.

The programme enables the application of psychological theories, research methods, and evidence-based practices to address pressing issues within the criminal justice system. Students study the core areas of psychology and develop a comprehensive understanding of complex topics such as criminal behaviour and the personal impact of crime. Opportunities are available to specialise in areas including cybercrime, domestic abuse, hate crime, psychopathy, mental and intellectual disabilities among offenders, and substance misuse. Optional modules include subjects such as addictive behaviours and schizophrenia. Throughout the course, emphasis is placed on evidence-based practice, encouraging investigation of real-world criminal justice problems and the development of practical solutions.

The BSc (Hons) Forensic Psychology programme is fully accredited by the British Psychological Society. Graduates who achieve at least a second-class honours degree, along with a minimum of 40% in the Independent Study in Psychology, are eligible for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) of the Society, the first formal step toward chartered status. Progression toward qualification as a Forensic Psychologist requires completion of a BPS-accredited Stage One postgraduate qualification, such as the MSc Forensic Psychology, followed by Stage Two independent professional training. This training involves completion of supervised work across key competency areas, including psychological assessment and interventions, research, professional communication, and training delivery. Successful completion of all requirements, together with registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), leads to qualification as a Forensic Psychologist.