Forensic Psychology BSc (Hons)

Are you fascinated by the intersection of psychology and the criminal justice system? Our Forensic Psychology degree provides an insight into the world of crime and criminality, criminal investigation and profiling, alongside the British Psychological Society (BPS) core curriculum. With a focus on applying psychological principles to real-world cases, you'll gain a unique perspective on criminal behaviour and the justice system.

The University of Chester’s Forensic Psychology degree is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS). As such, you can achieve the Graduate Basis for Chartership of this professional body. Our dedicated team, comprised of experienced academics and practitioners, provides expert guidance and support. Our facilities, including labs equipped with eye trackers, Dynavision, biopacs, cold pressor, VR technology and FaceGen software, offer a hands-on learning experience.

You'll have the opportunity to engage in specialised project work, learn from guest speakers and gain practical experience through hands-on modules. You can join our student-led Psychology society for social and academic events and explore study abroad options to broaden your horizons and pursue areas of study of your choice. You'll be well-prepared for a rewarding career in law enforcement, criminal profiling, rehabilitation or research.

The BSc Forensic Psychology course contains core modules at each level.

At Level 4, students are introduced to forensic psychology, research methods and the core areas of psychology (biological, cognitive, developmental, social, and individual differences). 

At Level 5, students will develop in-depth knowledge in areas of forensic psychology, and they also build on research methods and expand on their learning around social psychology and individual differences. There is also the opportunity to engage in an experiential learning module, which allows students to integrate ideas from multiple perspectives in psychology and apply their knowledge ethically and professionally to real-world problems.

At Level 6, students will have the opportunity to complete a large-scale dissertation in forensic psychology where they will be able to demonstrate a range of research skills, including designing and planning, considering and resolving ethical issues, and analysis and dissemination of findings. Students will continue developing in-depth knowledge in areas of forensic psychology, and they will also be able to learn about other specific areas in psychology, such as psychopathology.

There are several optional modules which may run depending on availability of staff expertise. Topics may include cyberpsychology, organisational psychology and animal psychology.

The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the course that will take the form of either core or option modules and should be used as a guide. We review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects. If, during a review process, course content is significantly changed, we will contact you to notify you of these changes if you receive an offer from us.

Careers Service

The University has an award-winning Careers and Employability, which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences; through the curriculum, through employer contact, tailored group sessions, individual information, advice and guidance.

Careers and Employability aims to deliver a service which is inclusive, impartial, welcoming, informed and tailored to your personal goals and aspirations, to enable you to develop as an individual and contribute to the business and community in which you will live and work.

We are here to help you plan your future, make the most of your time at University and to enhance your employability. We provide access to part-time jobs, extra-curricular employability-enhancing workshops and offer practical one-to-one help with career planning, including help with CVs, applications and mock interviews. We also deliver group sessions on career planning within each course, and we have a wide range of extensive information covering graduate jobs and postgraduate study.