Course Essentials
What motivates people to behave the way they do? What makes a ‘crime’? What makes someone a ‘criminal’?
If you want to become a social scientist with the skills to make sense of issues relating to both crime and psychology, then Arden University's BA (Hons) Criminology & Psychology Degree is the course for you.
Both Psychology and Criminology aim to understand the world of social values and behaviours. But while Psychology looks at human behaviour in general, Criminology looks at criminal behaviour in particular. As part of the School of Law and Social Sciences, you will have the chance to study crime, criminal behaviour, the justice system and understand and predict the many factors involved in human behaviour. You will also gain valuable analytical and research skills that will leave you highly employable.
With Arden's fully online Distance Learning programme, which gives you the flexibility of studying whenever and wherever you choose, you'll be taking the next step in your career in no time.
Key Information

Degree

360

L408

BA (Hons) Criminology & Psychology

3-6 years

Intake open

Distance learning

Yes

See Course Fees and Funding tab
With Arden's Criminology & Psychology Degree you get the chance to study two fascinating fields in the social sciences. You will spend equal time on both Psychology and Criminology.
You will look into such topics as the effects of social diversity and inequality on crime rates, develop an understanding of a range of research methods and data analysis skills, and develop knowledge of a range of influences on psychological well-being.
You will get involved in debate, learn to work independently, demonstrate critical analysis skills and learn how to formulate and evaluate research and data – all skills that will be of huge value in the world of work.
Modules
Level 4
- Effective Interdisciplinary Study
- Introduction to Social & Developmental Psychology
- Introduction to Biological & Cognitive Psychology
- Crime & Society
- Criminal Justice System
- Key Studies in Psychology
Level 5
- Research and Ethics in Action
- Personality and Intelligence
- Social Psychology
- Contemporary Debates in Criminology
- Environmental Criminology
- Policing & Police Powers
Level 6
- Research Planning & Project
- Contemporary Developmental Psychology
- Cross-Cultural Psychology
- Cybercrime
- Youth Justice
Please note that the modules listed are indicative and may be subject to change.
You can get more detailed course information by viewing the relevant Programme Specification, which you can download from our Policies, Standards and Procedures Page
Our BA (Hons) Criminology & Psychology Degree course has standard entry requirements. To be eligible for this Psychology and Criminology course at Arden University you must have either:
- Two subjects at GCE A-Level or equivalent, plus passes at grade C or above in three subjects at GCSE level or equivalent; OR
- Completed a recognised Access Programme or equivalent
For students whose prior learning was not taught in English, you must have IELTS 6.0 or equivalent (no less than 5.5 in any element).
If you have work experience
We are happy to consider an application from you here at Arden if you can show us you have the motivation to study the programme.
We’ll ask you for a personal statement that demonstrates your ability to study the course. We’ll also ask you for references and evidence of relevant work experience.
How much is my course?
Successfully completing this qualification can open up a world of opportunity, both within the specific fields of Psychology and Criminology, but also further afield in other industries you may not have considered.
A Psychology & Criminology Degree from Arden University will equip you with a host of transferable skills which can lead to careers in Human Resources, Counselling, Teaching, Research, the Government and many more. There are also newer initiatives in areas of community safety and crime prevention that might suit your skills and interests.
You may also find that your interest and skills make you a perfect candidate to explore careers in the Police, Legal System or Probation and Prison System.
The key skills you can develop include:
- The ability to research and present information to various audiences
- Analysis and evaluation of data
- Effective written communication
- Proven ability to present findings in a range of formats including essays, presentations, reports and online forums
- The ability to work independently and within a team
If you want to pursue further Postgraduate study within Psychology with the view to becoming a qualified Psychologist you could enter into roles in areas such as:
- Forensic Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Educational Psychology
- Health Psychology
You could continue your studies with Arden and enrol onto our MSc Psychology (BPS)
Find out more about the careers support available at Arden University.
Next steps
Applying for this course takes just a few minutes and is the first step towards gaining your Distance Learning qualification. You can begin your online application now and one of our friendly Admissions Advisors will be in touch to discuss your study options.
Applying for a course in 6 steps

1. Find your perfect course

2. Apply online

3. We’ll process your application

4. Supporting your next steps

5. Accept & complete the application

6. Begin your course with an online induction