Introduction to Forensic Psychology - PSYC3060

Looking for a different module?

Module delivery information

Location Term Level1 Credits (ECTS)2 Current Convenor3 2024 to 2025
Canterbury
Autumn Term 4 15 (7.5) Eduardo Vasquez checkmark-circle

Overview

This module will introduce students to key topics in Forensic Psychology including the development of offending, the rehabilitation of offenders, the criminal justice system, criminal statistics, policing, and the public response to crime. In particular, this module will focus on (1) fundamental applications of psychology, as a science, for understanding important forensic issues, and (2) key research methods common in forensic psychological research. Throughout the module, students will be encouraged to apply contemporary psychological concepts and methods to understand the important forensic psychological issues outlined.

Details

Contact hours

Total contact hours: 22

Private study hours: 128

Total study hours: 150

Availability

Compulsory to : Psychology with Forensic Psychology BSc

Optional to : Psychology BSc
Psychology with a Placement Year
Psychology with Clinical Psychology and a Placement Year
Psychology with Clinical Psychology
Social Psychology

Available as an elective module to non-psychology students. Available to Short Term Credit Students

Method of assessment

Examination 2 hours (100%)

Reassessment methods: Like-for-Like

Indicative reading

Reading list (Indicative list, current at time of publication. Reading lists will be published annually)

Howitt, D. (2015). Introduction to Forensic and Criminal Psychology. Essex, UK:Pearson Education Limited. 5th edition. Brown, J., Shell, Y. & Cole, T. (2015). Forensic Psychology: Theory, research, policy and practice. 1st edition.

See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)

Learning outcomes

The intended subject specific learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:

8.1 Understand the practical role played by contemporary forensic psychologists in society

8.2 Demonstrate a knowledge of forensic psychology as a discipline and research methods used within forensic psychology

8.3 Demonstrate awareness of the fundamental application of psychology, as a science, to understand key forensic issues

8.4 Demonstrate understanding of key concepts and sub-topics within forensic psychology and how they relate to each other (i.e. ability to synthesise core concepts within forensic psychology)

8.5 Evaluate core theories and research in forensic psychology

The intended generic learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:

9.1 Demonstrate an understanding of the variety of theoretical and methodological approaches used in psychology

9.2 Demonstrate independent learning and research skills required to support academic learning and development

Notes

  1. Credit level 4. Certificate level module usually taken in the first stage of an undergraduate degree.
  2. ECTS credits are recognised throughout the EU and allow you to transfer credit easily from one university to another.
  3. The named convenor is the convenor for the current academic session.
Back to top

University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.