Psychology and Criminology with Professional Year Placement

Psychology and criminology together investigate two of the most important questions any society grapples with: why do individuals behave as they do, and how should communities respond when that behaviour causes harm? Psychology provides the scientific tools to understand mental processes, emotion, development, and social behaviour, while criminology examines the nature and causes of crime, the operation of criminal justice systems, and the social conditions that shape both offending and responses to it. The combination is both intellectually rich and practically relevant to a wide range of careers.

This four-year full-time BSc at King's College London is accredited by the British Psychological Society, meaning the degree meets the educational requirements for graduate basis for registration in psychology. The programme is noted for its research-led teaching, its emphasis on developing employability skills, and the breadth of discipline-specific opportunities available through the university's connection to the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience. A professional year placement is built into the degree, giving you a full year of work experience in a relevant professional setting before you complete your studies.

You will develop understanding of psychological science, forensic psychology, criminological theory, and criminal justice policy, and you will learn to apply these frameworks to contemporary challenges in crime, justice, and social behaviour.

Graduates are well placed for careers in the police service, probation, prison service, forensic mental health, victim support, social care, youth justice, and community organisations. The BPS accreditation supports routes into professional training in clinical, forensic, or counselling psychology. Many graduates also go on to work in research, policy, journalism, and public health.

Postgraduate study in psychology, criminology, social work, or law is a natural continuation for those wishing to develop specialist professional or academic expertise.