Psychology with Forensic Scene Investigation

Psychology with forensic scene investigation is a combination that links the scientific study of human behaviour, thought, and emotion with the practical and forensic skills involved in crime scene examination and evidence collection. Psychology provides the theoretical and empirical understanding of why people behave as they do, how memory and perception work, and what the psychological dimensions of criminal behaviour, victimisation, and the criminal justice system look like. Forensic scene investigation adds the practical dimension of how physical evidence is documented, collected, and interpreted in ways that can withstand legal scrutiny.

At Abertay University, which has a well-developed tradition in both psychology and applied forensic sciences, this four-year full-time degree develops your competence in both areas. You will study the core areas of psychology, including cognitive, developmental, social, and biological psychology, alongside specialist modules in forensic psychology and the scientific and procedural aspects of forensic scene investigation. The combination gives you both the psychological understanding to work in criminal justice contexts and the practical forensic skills that many employers in that sector value.

A year abroad is also available within the programme, allowing you to study forensic and psychological science in a different international context.

Graduates of this programme are well placed for careers in the criminal justice system, including roles in police forensic services, crime scene examination, and the psychological services that support offenders and victims. Forensic psychology as a registered profession requires postgraduate training, but this degree provides an excellent foundation for that route. Other career paths include roles in security, intelligence, probation, victim support, and research.

Postgraduate study in forensic psychology, forensic science, or criminology is a natural and common progression for those who want to qualify as practitioners or pursue academic research.