Criminology and Psychological Studies with Foundation Year
Criminology and Psychological Studies is a degree that combines two disciplines united by their concern with why people behave as they do and how society responds to harmful behaviour. Criminology examines what gets defined as criminal, who defines it, why crime occurs and how criminal justice systems respond to offending. Psychology brings the scientific study of the mind and behaviour to these questions, providing insight into individual decision-making, the influence of environment and social context, the psychology of victimisation and trauma, and the evidence base for rehabilitation and therapeutic intervention.
Together, they produce graduates with a sophisticated understanding of crime and the people affected by it.
At Birkbeck College, this four-year full-time programme includes a foundation year that provides a supported entry route into degree-level study. You will develop a critical understanding of victimisation and the prospects for healing and rehabilitation for both victims and offenders within the criminal justice system, analysing real-world events through criminological and psychological theories. The programme addresses social justice and social change through a focus on government policy, advocacy and activism, developing the analytical and reflective capabilities needed for careers in criminal justice, social care and related fields.
Graduates from Criminology and Psychological Studies programmes go on to careers in probation, youth offending services, victim support, social work, community rehabilitation, mental health services, the prison service and police. The psychological component of the degree also opens pathways into counselling, clinical and forensic psychology training, and the criminological dimension is particularly relevant to policy research, advocacy and work within the voluntary and charitable sectors that address the causes and consequences of crime. Postgraduate study in psychology, criminology, social work or forensic practice is a natural next step.