Understanding human behaviour and the minds of criminals.

Northumbria University's Psychology with Criminology degree provides the perfect combination of skills to interpret human behaviour, investigate motivation and the causes of crime and victimisation, and the ways in which societies respond to crime.

Why study Psychology with Criminology at Northumbria?

Taught by research-active academics in modern facilities, you will develop an understanding of the theories behind the ways we think and behave, examining a wide range of domains within psychology and explore a range of psychology and criminology modules including contemporary issues in criminality and the criminal justice system. You will also have the opportunity to analyse global issues, from the point of view of both offender and victim. Teaching content is delivered across Northumbria's Health and Life Sciences and Arts, Design and Social Sciences faculties, opening doors to both Psychology and Criminology career paths.

A final year research project can be tailored towards your interests and careers aspirations and you will graduate with the knowledge and skills needed for a career in research, education or psychology, or within the criminal justice system.

Over 91% of students studying Psychology at Northumbria thought staff were good at explaining things (NSS, 2023).

Northumbria’s research in Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience is ranked 15th in the UK for research power out of 93 submissions (REF, 2021). This is a rise of 28 places from 43rd in 2014.

Psychology at Northumbria is ranked Top 40 in the UK by the Complete University Guide for 2024.

How are both Psychology and Criminology integrated into your learning?

The carefully selected psychology and criminology modules blend practical and theoretical content. Your practical skills will be developed through hands-on learning sessions in specialist learning laboratories, and learning is reinforced through traditional lectures and seminars. The programme is designed to bring these subjects to life and help you apply your theoretical knowledge to real social issues.

How are students taught and assessed?

We believe in innovative teaching and use social media, apps and podcasts along with the eLearning Portal, lecture capture and online submission and feedback tools to support your learning.

You will be assessed through written assignments, oral and poster presentations, and examinations, culminating in a final year psychology research project, driven by your personal interests and career aspirations

Who teaches Psychology and Criminology at Northumbria?

You will learn from inspirational, approachable, research-focused staff who are passionate about their subject and who are at the forefront of developments in the field. With a teaching team spanning a range of nationalities, we have formed global networks and partnerships through research and teaching which you can draw from to enhance your learning.

What areas of research are the Psychology department involved in?

Across the department we specialise in areas as diverse as sleep research; identity; trust and security in social media; human mating preferences and attractiveness; body image; developmental and psychology; and communications technology. Whatever your interests, our staff have the knowledge to support you in developing your own research skills and interests.

What Psychology and Criminology facilities are available at Northumbria University?

At Northumbria we value the importance of practical experience so we provide you with access to dedicated specialist and flexible teaching laboratories. Many of your teaching sessions will be held in the labs, and led by research-active staff. You can also book the rooms for your own project work and individual study.

What resources are available to support student research?

There is an extensive collection of psychological testing material to support your learning, including current editions of most of the widely used group and individual tests. You will also benefit from being immersed in an active research environment with access to Northumbria’s innovative research centres.

How does Northumbria University approach Psychology and Criminology research?

Research excellence is embedded within every stage of the course.

Psychology research is centred around the theme of Psychology and Wellbeing and this is reflected in our research specialisms of Brain Performance and Nutrition, Communication Technologies, Sleep Research, Evolution Perception and Behaviour, Language and Cognition and Cognition across the Lifespan. State-of-the-art facilities and expert staff in each area allow you to learn from those at the cutting-edge of their subject. For your final year project you will be matched with an academic closely aligned to your area of specialism to ensure you have access to the most relevant knowledge and expertise.

How does Psychology and Criminology at Northumbria University help with employability?

Exploring the application of psychology and criminology to the real world, you will develop core transferable skills such as communication, independent learning, reflection, problem solving and awareness of ethics that are essential in the psychology sector.

You will be able to tailor the subject of your final year research project to suit your career aspirations and build key skills in time and project management, communicating with a range of audiences, ethical awareness, and data analysis which, again, are valuable to employers.

With accreditation by the British Psychological Society (BPS) to provide Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC), for those who achieve 2:2 and above, the BSc in Psychology and Criminology has been developed with employability in mind.

How will studying at Northumbria prepare you for the future?

The Psychology and Criminology degree at Northumbria is designed to not only develop your understanding of psychology and criminology but also your valuable self-development skills such as critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, interpersonal skills and teamwork. You will graduate with practical experience, analytical and research skills along with the confidence and independent learning ability that will stand you in good stead for a variety of careers.

With the opportunity to apply for Graduate Membership of the British Psychological Society (BPS) you can take your first steps to becoming a Chartered Psychologist and follow a career path into research, education or specialisms in psychology, and with the option to work in the criminal justice system.