BSc (Honours) in Forensic Psychology
Open University
Key Information
Campus location
Online United Kingdom
Languages
English
Study format
Distance Learning
Duration
3 - 6 years
Pace
Full time, Part time
Tuition fees
GBP 6,924 / per year *
Application deadline
Request info
Earliest start date
Request info
* cost per year full-time; £3,462 - cost per year part-time
Introduction
What makes people do harm to others? What is a psychopath? How do you conduct an intervention with someone convicted of a violent crime, or help someone who has been the victim of crime? This degree explores these and many other important psychological questions relating to crime and justice. You’ll examine how forensic psychologists use evidence derived from research to contribute to debates and policy on crime, policing, criminal justice and rehabilitation; and how psychology is critical to understanding education, employment, mental health, and relationships.
Key features of the course
- Covers key concepts, theories, methods and debates in forensic psychology
- Gives you an appreciation of different perspectives within psychology and the ability to evaluate them critically
- Takes an applied approach to tackling issues such as counselling vulnerable clients
- Relevant to careers in the criminal justice system, the care and resettlement of offenders, victim support, crime prevention and social justice.
This degree is accredited by The British Psychological Society and excellent preparation for the further study needed to qualify to practice as a forensic psychologist, as you will not be qualified with this degree alone.
Accessibility
We make all our qualifications as accessible as possible and have a comprehensive range of services to support all our students. The BSc (Honours) Forensic Psychology uses a variety of study materials and has the following elements:
- studying a mixture of printed and online material – online learning resources may include websites, audio/video media clips, and interactive activities such as online quizzes
- using mathematical and scientific expressions, notations and associated techniques
- working in a group with other students
- using and producing diagrams or screenshots
- undertaking practical work
- finding external/third party material online
- using specialist software (for example SPSS software for statistical analysis).
Program Outcome
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
- Knowledge and understanding
- Cognitive skills
- Practical and professional skills
- Key skills
The level and depth of your learning gradually increase as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; e-learning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.
Curriculum
Course details
This degree has three stages, each comprising two 60-credit modules.
- At Stage 1 you’ll be introduced to core academic skills and concepts in the social sciences and psychology.
- At Stage 2 you'll explore a wide range of real-life problems and issues to which psychology has been applied, along with a variety of research and practical skills used by professional psychologists.
- Finally, at Stage 3, you'll specialise in psychology as it has been applied to criminal justice contexts, including counselling and forensic psychology in prisons. You'll complete your degree with an independent research project.
Prepare for OU study with an Access module
We offer two starting points depending on how confident you are or how long it’s been since you last studied. Choose to dive straight in at Stage 1, or if you’d prefer some extra preparation, you can get started with an optional Access module.