Program Overview

Psychology with Forensic Biology BSc (Hons)

Overview

This course integrates psychology and forensic biology, providing a comprehensive understanding of both disciplines. Students will explore critical applications in forensic and psychological contexts, developing transferable skills applicable across both disciplines.

Course Details

• Level: Undergraduate
• UCAS Code: CF84
• UCAS Points: 112
• Start Date: October 2025, October 2026
• Duration: 3 years full-time, up to 7 years part-time
• Location: Exton Park, Chester
• UK Fees: £9,535 per year for a full-time course (2025/26)
• International Fees: £14,450 per year for a full-time course (2025/26)

Accreditations

• British Psychological Society (BPS) accreditation

Course Structure

The course is delivered through a series of core modules, providing a detailed understanding of the theoretical and practical applications of both disciplines.

Year 1 (Level 4)

• Individual and Social Processes (20 Credits) Core: Introduces aspects of individual differences and social psychology.
• Introduction to Research in Psychology (20 Credits) Core: Develops core skills essential for scientifically addressing questions relating to areas of psychology.
• Introduction to Brain, Mind and Development (20 Credits) Core: Covers the biological bases of human and non-human behavior, brain structure and function, comparative and evolutionary psychology.
• Exploring and Researching Life Sciences (40 Credits) Core: Develops research skills, including how to develop research questions, work with relevant literature, and communicate research findings.
• Forensic Investigations (20 Credits) Core: Introduces analytical and identification techniques used in forensic investigations.

Year 2 (Level 5)

• Further Research in Psychology (20 Credits) Core: Develops research techniques, including designing experiments, working with psychometric tests, and presenting research findings.
• Psychology in Society (20 Credits) Core: Explores the real-world implications of psychology, including power, politics, and community.
• Psychology: Careers and Community (40 Credits) Optional: Develops awareness and skills in understanding the psychology behind job searching and applying psychology in real-life situations.
• Crime Scene to Court (40 Credits) Core: Takes students through the stages of crime scene examination, analysis of exhibits, preparation of legal documents, and presentation of oral evidence.
• Experiential Learning - Natural Sciences (40 Credits) Optional: Provides hands-on experience through a range of experiential activities, such as volunteering, workplace engagement, or research projects.
• Work Placement - Natural Sciences (40 Credits) Optional: Provides a structured, university-level work placement for 4, 5, or 7 weeks.

Year 3 (Level 6)

• Psychopathology (20 Credits) Core: Explores research, practice, and service user perspectives on psychopathology throughout the lifespan.
• Health Psychology (20 Credits) Core: Examines key areas of health psychology, including behavior change and patient experience.
• Neurodiversity in Practice (20 Credits) Core: Covers a range of topics affecting children's development, including neurodiversity issues and experiences of children raised in unusual circumstances.
• Forensic Applications (20 Credits) Option: Provides an insight into the biological aspects of the work of forensic scientists and related professions.
• Investigative Forensics (20 Credits) Option: Discusses advanced analytical and sampling techniques used for forensic science.
• Industrial Biotechnology (20 Credits) Option: Explores the fundamental concepts and applications of modern biotechnology.
• Natural Sciences Dissertation (40 Credits) Option: Engages students in the research of a selected topic relevant to their course.

Teaching and Assessment

• Teaching is lecture, seminar, and workshop-based.
• Assessment methods include essays, research reports, reflective reports, presentations, and multiple-choice examinations.
• The course is delivered in three terms of ten weeks each, with one term focused on psychology, one term focused on forensic biology, and one term combining both subjects.

Entry Requirements

• Home Students: 112 UCAS points, including A-Level Biology.
• International Students: Equivalent qualifications, with English language requirements (IELTS Academic: 6.0).

Fees and Funding

• Home Students: £9,535 per year for a full-time course (2025/26).
• International Students: £14,450 per year for a full-time course (2025/26).
• Additional Costs: Books, printing, photocopying, educational stationery, specialist clothing, travel to placements, and optional field trips.
• Bursaries: Available for students who may need additional support.

Location

• Exton Park, Chester: Close to the city centre, with modern learning resources, a library, fitness facilities, student services, chapel, chaplaincy, and multi-faith spaces.

Staff

• Chris Davis: Senior Lecturer.
• Dr. Liz Whelen: Senior Lecturer.
• Dr. Janine Carroll: Senior Lecturer.
• Dr. Hayley Cooper: Senior Lecturer.
• Dr. Lindsay Murray: Associate Professor.
• Kate Miller: Lecturer.

Careers and Employability

• Job Prospects: Psychology graduates often go on to postgraduate study or secure graduate roles in industries such as marketing, banking, and project management.
• Careers Service: The University has an award-winning Careers and Employability service, providing employability-enhancing experiences, tailored group sessions, individual information, advice, and guidance.