As crime becomes increasingly complex, professionals with psychological expertise are more in demand than ever. A degree in criminal psychology offers valuable insight into why people offend, as well as strategies to help reduce reoffending and protect vulnerable individuals. This versatile qualification can prepare you for careers in policing, forensic mental health, policymaking and much more.
In this blog post, discover what makes criminal psychology such an interesting topic to study and how our BSc (Hons) Criminal Psychology can lead to many rewarding career paths.
Why choose criminal psychology?
Take a deeper look into the criminal mind with our BSc (Hons) Criminal Psychology. You’ll explore the motives, thought processes and environmental factors that shape criminal behaviours. This undergraduate degree is the first step towards becoming a criminal or forensic psychologist but can also open the door to a wide range of exciting career paths.
What can I expect studying the BSc (Hons) Criminal Psychology?
You’ll learn to recognise the wide range of influences on psychological functioning and how these are conceptualised across social psychology and cognitive psychology. The course has a key focus on evidence-based practice alongside psychological theory to understand, reduce and prevent offending behaviour.
Explore a wide range of topics from the importance of forensic psychology within the criminal justice system to the history and theoretical perspective of victimology. You’ll also take a look at crime from a psychological and criminological perspective, as well as studying the social factors that impact on individual’s lives.
Towards the end of your degree, you’ll have the opportunity to apply your improved research, knowledge and analytical skills to a final project on a topic of your interest. And upon completion of the course, you’ll have a solid understanding of the criminal justice system, as well as developed communication, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
Find out what it’s really like to study criminal psychology with the University of Essex Online and read testimonial from our student, Nicole McLean-Anderson.
What are my career options as a criminal psychology graduate?
A degree in criminal psychology will qualify you for roles within the justice system, law enforcement or rehabilitation. In the criminal justice and law enforcement sector, you could pursue career paths such as Probation Officer, Intelligence Analyst, or roles within offender management.
If your passion lies in psychology and mental health, with further postgraduate study you could work as a forensic psychologist, clinical psychologist or a psychological wellbeing practitioner (PWP).
How does online study work?
Study 100% online, part-time and manage your studies around your personal commitments. Our innovative virtual learning environment (VLE) is at the centre of your study experience. This is where you’ll find high-quality study materials, our extensive eLibrary and have access to a wide range of student support. There are many benefits to studying online:
- connect with tutors through scheduled seminars, live Q&A sessions and virtual office hours
- share career insights and perspectives with your classmates from across the globe
- all multimedia lecturecasts, discussion forums and assignment submissions can be found in one place
Why choose to study with the University of Essex Online?
As the UK’s leader in online higher education, we’re proud to offer first-class education accessible from anywhere in the world. In the 2025 National Student Survey (NSS), the University of Essex Online achieved superb scores for teaching, organisation and management, as well as learning opportunities. What’s more, 9 out of 10 students felt their course helped them develop necessary skills for the future.
Ready to turn your interest in criminal psychology into a meaningful career? Download a prospectus to find out more.