Criminology with Psychology with Foundation Year BA (Hons)

OVERVIEW
Criminology with Psychology at University College Birmingham explores how social inequalities, power, and cultural norms shape both crime and our responses to it. This combined pathway helps you understand not only why harm occurs but also how people think, behave, and experience the world around them.
The foundation year gives you a supportive start, developing your academic confidence while introducing key ideas from criminology and psychology. It is an ideal option if you want additional preparation before beginning degree‑level study.
As you progress, you will examine the psychological factors that influence behaviour, the role of mental health in people’s lives, and how positive psychology can support resilience and recovery. You’ll also explore forensic psychology to understand how decisions are made within the criminal justice system.
Grounded in our city and its diverse communities, the programme blends theory with hands-on learning, community engagement, and research activities that directly address real issues.
Whether you hope to guide policy, support vulnerable groups, or work within justice or community settings, this foundation year route gives you the knowledge, practical insight, and confidence to begin making meaningful change.

WHY CHOOSE THIS COURSE?
- EXPERT TUITION – You will be taught by seasoned criminologists and those with a mixture of industry experience, including policing


- NO EXAMS – If you are not keen on exams, this course is for you. Unlike many degrees, you will have no written exams during or at the end of the course


- ENRICHMENT – Learn from experts through real-world simulations, workshops, and guest lectures


- STUDENT-CENTRED - Designed to reflect the real world, the programme is underpinned by diverse and inclusive reading lists and module content


- MAKE AN IMPACT – Develop a global outlook by exploring issues across cultures, preparing you to make an impact in an increasingly globalised world


- ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATION - In your first year, you will undertake mental health first aid training to gain a certificate to use in your future work opportunities


CAREERS AND PROGRESSION
Examples of careers you could pursue following this course:


• Social science researcher



• Probation officer



• Prison officer



• Youth offending team officer



• Intelligence analyst



• Political risk analyst



You could also progress onto one of our postgraduate courses at University College Birmingham.
- Please refer to our website www.ucb.ac.uk for the latest updates to this course

Investing £300 million in its campuses, University College Birmingham is all about degrees that get you hired and practical support to get you through.

Its higher education qualifications are hands-on and shaped by the needs of industry, all taught by experienced industry experts across its seven campuses in the heart of Birmingham, a hub of business districts, nightlife, cultural attractions, parks and entertainment.

Some courses have a 2 Day Degree option, meaning you only have to be on-campus two consecutive days a week, freeing up the rest of the week for work, caring responsibilities and other commitments.

The university works with over 1,000 employers to benefit students, is accredited by top industry bodies and organisations, and is a centre for excellence across a range of subjects. As well as a £6,000 Cost of Living Allowance, it also offers Kick-Start funding of up to £800 a year to help pay for expenses such as uniform, food and drink.

Register your interest today and secure your place at University College Birmingham!