Psychology and Criminology

Program Title: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminology

Program Description: The Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminology at the University of Suffolk offers students a comprehensive understanding of human behavior, mental processes, and the criminal justice system. This interdisciplinary degree combines core principles from psychology and criminology, equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to analyze, understand, and address issues related to behavior, crime, and social justice. Throughout the program, students will explore various psychological theories and practices, including cognitive, developmental, social, and clinical psychology, alongside criminological perspectives such as theories of crime, criminal profiling, and the criminal justice process. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and practical applications, preparing graduates for careers in forensic psychology, social services, law enforcement, or further academic study. In addition to theoretical knowledge, students will gain valuable hands-on experience through practical sessions, case studies, and potential placements, fostering an applied understanding of the subject matter. The program also offers opportunities for collaboration with local agencies and organizations, enhancing employability and professional development. Students are encouraged to develop their analytical, communication, and ethical awareness, which are essential attributes in working within complex and sensitive environments. The program duration is typically three years for full-time students, with part-time options available, allowing flexibility to accommodate different learning needs. Graduates of this program will be well-prepared to contribute positively to society, whether through working with vulnerable populations, engaging in criminal justice reform, or pursuing postgraduate study. The University of Suffolk's supportive academic community and experienced faculty provide an excellent environment for personalized learning and academic success. By choosing this program, students will embark on a challenging and rewarding educational journey that combines scientific inquiry with social activism, ultimately aiming to make a meaningful impact in their chosen careers.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 9240 Year (EEA)
• EUR 10360 Year (Non-EEA)

Students starting at UCS in September 2013 will be charged £8,000 for a full-time Bachelor degree.

Tuition fees for full-time undergraduate overseas fee payers for the academic year 2013-2014 are:

• Classroom-based 9,000 GBP (£)
• Laboratory-based 10,500* GBP (£)

• English

Course Content

First year modules

• Social Science Research Skills (Core)
• Foundations of Biological and Cognitive Psychology
• Foundations of Social and Developmental Psychology
• Key Thinkers in Criminology
• Law for Criminologists
• Sociology and the Modern World

Second year modules

• Quantitative Data in Social Science (Core)
• Qualitative Data in Social Science (Core)
• Biological and Cognitive Psychology
• Social and Developmental Psychology
• Criminological Theory and Social Control
• Criminal Justice Systems

Third year modules

• Research Dissertation (Core)
• Applied Studies (Core)

With a choice of 1 or 2 modules from:

• Personality and Intelligence
• Cognition
• Psychology and Technology
• Contemporary Issues in Psychology
• Abnormal Psychology
• Forensic Psychology
• Contemporary Issues in Criminology

1 (if only 1 psychology option chosen) from:

• Penology
• Human Rights
• Victims of Crime
• Forensic Psychology

All modules are assessed using a range of assessment methods including structured essays, reports, case studies, critiques, reviews and formal examinations.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6 TOEFL iBT® test : 87

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

Requirements

All students are expected to be able to understand and express themselves fully in English in order to succeed on the course. Applicants whose first language is not English are welcome to apply but expected to undertake one of the Secure English Language Test (SELT) specified by the UKBA before joining the course. Non-EU applicants are required to submit SELT scores before a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) can be issued. Depending on your choice of course you are required to secure a minimum of CEFR B2 or C1 level.
Typically the following test scores are acceptable:

Undergraduate Courses:

• IELTS (academic): 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
• TOEFL: IBT (Internet Based Test) 87 overall
  (a minimum of 17 in listening 17 in writing; 18 in reading; and 20 in the speaking component) or equivalent Computer based/Paper based test
• Pearson PTE: 51 overall
• Diagnostic Radiography, Radiotherapy and Oncology, ODP and all Pre-Registration Nursing and Midwifery courses require IELTS 7.0 overall or CEFR C1 equivalent (minimum 5.5 in all components)
• Cambridge ESOL at CEFR B2 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 Campus Suffolk.

Funding

UCS Financial Support

UCS Bursary 2013 Entry

From September 2013, UCS is introducing a new bursary scheme for students living away from the parental home, to help with accommodation costs while studying.

Successful applicants will receive a £1,000 bursary in their first year of study and a £500 bursary in both their second and third years of study.

National Scholarship Programme

The National Scholarship Programme (NSP) has been created to offer support to students from lower income backgrounds. The Government has awarded a number of Scholarships to UCS for students starting an undergraduate degree in September 2013. UCS has committed to matching these Scholarships, providing fee waivers to a larger number of students.

Successful full-time applicants will receive a total fee waiver of £6,000; £3,000 in their first year of study and £3,000 in their second year of study.

Successful part-time applicants will receive a fee waiver on a pro rata basis for their first and second years of study. For example part-time students studying 50% of the full time equivalent course in their first year will receive a fee waiver of £1,500.

Suffolk Access Champion Scheme

The Suffolk Access Champion Scheme is open to students who have studied in Suffolk and are applying to study a full-time undergraduate degree programme at UCS in 2013/14.

Successful applicants will become Suffolk Access Champions and will work over two years mentoring Year 10 and 11 students to encourage progression on to higher education.

In return for their participation in the scheme, Access Champions will receive a total fee waiver of £8,000; £5,000 in their first year of study and £3,000 in their second year of study.

UCS Science Fee Waiver

UCS is introducing a new Science fee waiver for students starting one of the four year science programmes in 2013. This scheme entitles successful applicants to a fee waiver of up to £1,500 across years two and three of their degree.

Ipswich Borough Council and UCS Bursary

Ipswich Borough Council (IBC) is working in conjunction with UCS to offer a non-repayable bursary scheme to selected full and part-time students from lower income backgrounds to help with costs associated with their course of study.

A total of four IBC and UCS bursaries are available in 2013/14. Successful applicants will receive £1,000 in their first year of study. Awards are expected to continue into Year 2 of study on the condition that household income remains within the scheme threshold

The BA (Hons) in Psychology and Criminology at the University of Suffolk offers students an in-depth exploration of human behavior, criminal activity, and the psychological principles underlying both fields. This interdisciplinary course is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical and practical aspects of psychology and criminology, preparing them for careers in areas such as criminal justice, psychological research, counseling, or further academic study. The programme combines core modules in psychological theories, research methods, criminal justice processes, and forensic psychology, providing a balanced curriculum that emphasizes both academic learning and practical application.

Throughout the course, students will engage with a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and placements, encouraging active participation and experiential learning. The curriculum covers key topics such as violence and aggression, criminal behavior, mental health in the justice system, developmental psychology, and forensic assessment. Students will also develop vital skills in data analysis, critical thinking, report writing, and ethical considerations in research and practice.

The programme is designed to foster independent learning, with opportunities for students to undertake their own research projects, coursework, and internships. The university emphasizes a supportive learning environment, with access to experienced academic staff, research facilities, and links to professional organizations and agencies. Assessments typically include essays, presentations, exams, research projects, and practical assessments, all aimed at preparing students for the demands of further study or employment in related fields.

Graduates of this programme will be well-positioned for careers in the criminal justice sector, mental health services, social work, and forensic psychology. Alternatively, they may choose to pursue postgraduate study, such as a Master's degree or professional training, to specialize further. The University of Suffolk’s strong focus on employability and real-world relevance ensures that graduates leave with both the academic credentials and practical skills necessary for successful careers in psychology and criminology.

The course also benefits from the university’s modern campus, dedicated facilities, and strong links with local and national criminal justice and mental health organizations. This strategic partnerships provide students with valuable networking opportunities, work placements, and exposure to real-world scenarios, which are crucial for their professional development. Overall, the BA (Hons) in Psychology and Criminology at the University of Suffolk is a comprehensive programme that combines academic rigour with practical experience, preparing students for the diverse and dynamic fields of psychology and criminal justice.