Psychology with Criminology

Psychology with Criminology is a combination that brings together the scientific study of individual behaviour and mind with the sociological, legal, and political analysis of crime. Psychology helps you understand why people behave as they do, including when they behave in ways that cause harm: what motivates offending, how trauma affects behaviour, how groups influence individual decisions, and how people can change. Criminology examines the social structures, criminal justice systems, and cultural narratives that define what counts as crime and how society responds to it.

Together the two disciplines provide a more complete picture of crime and justice than either can offer alone.

At Northumbria University, this extended degree runs across four years of full-time study and includes a year abroad, giving you an international perspective on how different societies conceptualise and respond to crime. You will study the core areas of psychology, including cognitive, social, biological, and developmental psychology, alongside criminological theory, victimology, policing and penal policy, and research methods in both disciplines. The forensic and criminal psychology dimension of the combination is particularly well developed, reflecting employer demand in this area.

Graduates from Psychology with Criminology move into a wide range of careers across the criminal justice system and related fields. Probation, youth offending work, the prison service, police forces, and victim support organisations are established destinations. Forensic psychology, which typically requires further postgraduate training, is a more specialist direction.

Social work, rehabilitation services, and community-based support roles are also options. The year abroad and the extended degree format strengthen both your academic credentials and your professional outlook. Postgraduate study in forensic psychology, criminology, social work, or counselling is a common next step for those who want to practise in therapeutic or specialist criminal justice roles.