Program Overview

Introduction to BSc (Hons) Forensic Psychology

The BSc (Hons) Forensic Psychology program at Manchester Metropolitan University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the science of human behavior and mind, with a focus on the application of psychological principles to legal domains. This program is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and covers all core elements of psychological study, including lifespan development, biopsychology, and research methods.

Course Overview

The program is a three-year full-time course that explores the psychology of offending behavior, victims, witnesses, and the justice system. Students will develop a thorough understanding of key psychological research, theory, and principles, as well as explore a wide range of topics focusing on theories of crime, victimization, and psychology in legal contexts.

Course Structure

The course is divided into three years, with each year building on the previous one. The first year introduces students to the foundational concepts of psychological theory and research, while the second year dives deeper into key areas of psychology, taking a more critical and analytical approach. The third year rounds out the forensic psychology studies, with a focus on practitioner perspectives on assessment and treatment of offending behavior.

Year 1

In the first year, students will be introduced to core study skills, such as professional/academic writing, avoiding academic misconduct, and literature searching. They will also explore the role of psychological theory and research in understanding and shaping practice in the investigation of crime and the criminal justice process.

Core Modules

• Core Skills In Forensic Psychology: This module introduces students to core study skills and helps them develop their professionalism.
• Crime and Society: This module covers core theoretical perspectives on the causes of crime and applies these perspectives to various crime types.
• Research Methods in Psychology 1: This module provides an introduction to research methods in psychology, including quantitative and qualitative analysis.
• Investigative and Courtroom Psychology: This module explores the criminal justice system and the legal processes from a psychological perspective.

Year 2

In the second year, students will build on the knowledge from Year 1, diving deeper into key areas of psychology and taking a more critical and analytical approach.

Core Modules

• Cognitive and Biological Psychology: This module critically explores key areas of cognitive psychological theory and research.
• Social and Developmental Psychology: This module examines theoretical, methodological, and applied aspects of social and developmental psychology across the lifespan.
• Individuality and Diversity in Forensic Psychology: This module explores differences and diversity in forensic populations and the relevance of individual differences within forensic psychology.
• Research Methods in Psychology 2: This module builds on the research skills from Year 1, with a focus on designing ethical quantitative and qualitative research.

Year 3

In the final year, students will round out their forensic psychology studies, with a focus on practitioner perspectives on assessment and treatment of offending behavior.

Core Modules

• Forensic Futures: This module explores different roles within forensic psychology and wider contexts, and critically evaluates current issues related to training and practicing within these roles.
• Preparing for your Dissertation: This module helps students develop key competencies in designing a feasible piece of applied psychology research.
• Contemporary Challenges In Forensic Psychology: This module covers a range of contemporary challenges in forensic psychology, including rape, terrorism, extremism, cybercrime, and the use of AI in criminal offending.
• Ethical Practice in Forensic Psychology: This module develops key knowledge and skills related to forensic assessment and treatment, with a focus on working with various kinds of offenders in an ethical and professional manner.
• Dissertation: This module provides students with the opportunity to conduct a piece of timely, ethical, and meaningful psychological empirical research.

Entry Requirements

The typical offer for this course is 128 UCAS tariff points, with a minimum of two A-levels or equivalent qualifications. Students must also have GCSE English Language and Mathematics at Grade C or 4.

Fees and Funding

Tuition fees for the 2026/27 academic year are still being finalized. However, students can find information on 2025/26 standard undergraduate fees for UK/Channel Islands and EU/Non-EU international students.

Careers Support and Prospects

The university offers a range of careers support and prospects, including the Careers Service, Future Me, and Rise. These services provide students with the opportunity to explore their career plans, develop their skills, and get ready for further study or working life.

Conclusion

The BSc (Hons) Forensic Psychology program at Manchester Metropolitan University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the science of human behavior and mind, with a focus on the application of psychological principles to legal domains. With a strong focus on research, theory, and practice, this program is ideal for students who wish to pursue a career in forensic psychology or related fields.