Criminology with Social Psychology (including Year Abroad)

The BA Criminology with Social Psychology (including Year Abroad) at the University of Essex offers students a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of crime, criminal behavior, and social influences. This innovative programme combines the study of criminological theories, practices, and policies with a focus on social psychology, enabling students to explore how individual and group behaviors are shaped by social factors. Throughout the course, students will examine a wide range of topics such as the causes of crime, the criminal justice system, rehabilitation, social attitudes towards crime, and the psychological processes underlying social interactions. The inclusion of a Year Abroad provides students with the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in different cultural and academic environments, enhancing their global perspective and employability skills. During their year abroad, students can choose from partner universities across Europe and beyond, engaging with international perspectives on law, society, and psychology. The programme employs a mix of lectures, seminars, practical projects, and placements, designed to develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and research competence, preparing graduates for careers in criminal justice, social research, policy development, or further study. Students will also have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated social psychology labs and criminology research resources. With expert academics and strong links to criminal justice agencies, the programme offers valuable insights into current issues and challenges facing society today. Graduates of Criminology with Social Psychology are equipped to contribute thoughtfully and effectively to debates about crime prevention, social justice, and community wellbeing, making a positive impact in their professional careers.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 11950 Year (International)

• English

Course Content

Year 1

• Crime, Law and Society;
• Discovering Psychology;
• Researching Social Life 1; and
• Sociology and the Modern World

Year 2

• Sociology of Crime and Control;
• Social Psychology;
• Researching Social Life 2; and one option from either sociology, health and human sciences or psychology

Year 3

• Year abroad

Year 4

• Globalisation and Crime;
• Project: Sociology ; and
• one option from either sociology, health and human sciences or psychology

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

Qualifications

• A-levels: ABB – BBB
• GCSE English: C
• IB: 32 - 30 points (we consider IB certificates at the Higher level on a case-by-case basis)
• Achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 6 level three credits at distinction and the remainder at merit (or above) or achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 45 level three credits at merit (or above).
• Entry requirements for students studying BTEC qualifications are dependent on units studied. Advice can be provided on an individual basis. The standard required is generally at Distinction level.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Essex.

Funding

For home and EU students your main source of funding will be government loans, as well as University bursaries and scholarships.

While international students may be eligible for some scholarships, as well as additional funding from charities and trusts, it is imperative that you do not travel to the UK or begin your studies without ensuring you have enough money to cover all fees and living expenses. It is virtually impossible to make arrangements for financial support once you have left your home country, while the immigration authorities are unlikely to allow you UK entry unless you have evidence that you can cover the costs of your study.

Criminology with Social Psychology at the University of Essex is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of criminal behavior, societal responses to crime, and the psychological factors that influence human behavior. The course combines core modules in criminology with dedicated studies in social psychology, enabling students to explore the criminal justice system, theories of crime causation, and the psychological principles underlying social interactions and influences.

One of the key features of this program is the opportunity to undertake a Year Abroad, typically in a partner university in a different country. This international experience allows students to develop intercultural communication skills, gain global perspectives on crime and psychology, and enhance their employability in an increasingly interconnected world. The year abroad is integrated into the course structure, usually in the third year, and students receive support from university staff to ensure a smooth transition and successful academic experience overseas.

The curriculum includes a variety of modules such as Introduction to Criminology, Crime and Deviance, Criminal Justice System, Social Psychology, and Research Methods. These modules are designed to build foundational knowledge and practical skills, including critical analysis, research design, data collection, and interpretation. Practical components such as seminars, workshops, and opportunities for placements or internships help students apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts.

Graduates of the program are prepared for diverse careers in criminal justice, social research, policy development, advocacy, and mental health services. The program also provides a solid foundation for continuing studies at postgraduate level, including areas like forensic psychology, criminal law, or social work.

The university emphasizes a research-led teaching approach, ensuring that students learn from academics who are actively involved in current research projects. Facilities at Essex include well-equipped laboratories, libraries, and dedicated support services to enhance the learning experience.

Students interested in this program should have an interest in understanding human behavior, social issues, and criminal justice processes. The program fosters critical thinking, ethical awareness, and analytical skills, preparing students to contribute thoughtfully and effectively to society. Applications are evaluated based on academic performance, relevant interests, and personal motivation.

Overall, Criminology with Social Psychology (including Year Abroad) at the University of Essex offers a dynamic and multidisciplinary education that blends theory and practice, preparing students for impactful careers or further academic pursuits in related fields.