Forensic Psychology BSc
Study of how psychology helps us understand crime, offenders, and the justice system - linking human behaviour to law, investigation, and rehabilitation.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Are interested in psychology and crime
Enjoy analysing behaviour
Like research and investigation
Want a career in criminal justice or psychology
Are curious and analytical
Popular Career Fields
Law & Legal Services
Healthcare & Public Health
Research & Academia
Government & Public Sector
Your Personality Might Be:
Analytically minded
Healthcare & Public Health
Research-focused
Justice-interested
What is it?
What Is Forensic Psychology?
Forensic Psychology applies psychological theory and research to criminal behaviour, law enforcement, and rehabilitation. You’ll explore how mental processes influence crime and how psychology supports the justice system, from criminal profiling to supporting victims and witnesses.
Why Study Forensic Psychology?
This degree is ideal if you’re fascinated by both psychology and crime. It combines scientific study of the mind with real-world applications in criminal justice and mental health - preparing you for roles that help understand, prevent, and respond to offending behaviour.
Course Summary
Study of how psychology helps us understand crime, offenders, and the justice system - linking human behaviour to law, investigation, and rehabilitation.
What you'll study
Most Forensic Psychology degrees cover:
Core areas of psychology (biological, cognitive, developmental, social, and individual differences)
Criminology and criminal justice
Psychology of crime and offending behaviour
Mental health and abnormal psychology
Policing and investigative processes
Rehabilitation and treatment of offenders
Research methods and statistics
Later in your course, you can often specialise - for example, in youth offending, criminal profiling, substance misuse, or victimology.
Degree Type
BSc (Bachelor of Science): Focuses on scientific and research methods, often accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS).
Some universities offer Forensic Psychology with Criminology or Forensic and Criminal Psychology pathways.
Skills You'll Gain
A Forensic Psychology degree builds scientific, analytical, and interpersonal skills, which might include:
Behavioural Analysis – understanding criminal behaviour, motives, and psychological patterns.
Psychological Assessment – administering and interpreting tests relevant to offender profiling and risk.
Research & Data Skills – analysing evidence, crime data, and psychological research findings.
Legal System Knowledge – understanding court processes, evidence standards, and criminal justice procedures.
Communication & Reporting – presenting clear psychological insights to legal, clinical, and law-enforcement professionals.
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Forensic Psychology graduates work across criminal justice, mental health, and research settings, including:
Prisons, probation, and rehabilitation services
NHS and private mental health organisations
Police and legal systems
Education, youth work, and community projects
Academic and policy research
Common job roles include:
Assistant psychologist or psychological wellbeing practitioner
Probation or rehabilitation officer
Police or investigative support worker
Research or data analyst
Forensic or clinical psychologist (with postgraduate training)
To become a Chartered Forensic Psychologist, you’ll need a BPS-accredited degree, followed by postgraduate study and supervised practice.
Work Experiences & Placements
Many universities offer:
Placements or sandwich years with prisons, probation services, police forces, or mental health organisations.
Research assistant opportunities in university psychology departments or forensic research groups.
These experiences help you apply your learning in real-world settings and prepare for professional roles.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent. Many universities accept a broad range of subjects, though Psychology often strongly preferred. Some universities may accept a Science (Biology, Chemistry) or Social Science instead.
Personal Statement Tips
Show your curiosity about human behaviour and the justice system.
Mention school subjects, volunteering, or experience that reflect your interest in psychology or crime.
Reflect on how psychology can help reduce offending and support rehabilitation.
Include examples like research projects, teamwork, or community work.
What to do Next
Compare courses to check for BPS accreditation, which is essential for becoming a professional psychologist.
Attend open days or virtual sessions to explore psychology labs and placement opportunities.
Volunteer with community organisations, charities, or youth justice services.
Read psychology and crime-related news or research to stay informed.
Wider Reading
The Forensic Psychology of Criminal Minds by Katherine Ramsland – How psychology is used to understand and catch offenders.
The Anatomy of Violence by Adrian Raine – Exploring biological and social causes of criminal behaviour.
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat by Oliver Sacks – Fascinating insights into the human brain and behaviour.
Forensic Psychology: Crime, Justice, Law, Interventions by Graham Davies and Anthony Beech – A leading academic overview of the field.