Faculty: Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Psychology. This 3-year full-time Bachelor of Science (BSc) with Honours program offers a unique blend of core psychological science and the application of psychological principles to the criminal investigation process. You will gain a thorough understanding of human behaviour, cognition, and development, covering all core areas required for British Psychological Society (BPS) accreditation (biological, cognitive, developmental, social, and individual differences psychology, plus research methods and statistics). Simultaneously, you will delve into the intricacies of forensic investigation, learning about the criminal investigation process, relevant legal issues, evidence recovery, and the scientific analysis of physical evidence. The course provides opportunities to use state-of-the-art facilities, including a crime scene training centre and psychology testing suites. You will learn from both psychology academics and forensic investigation experts. There are work placement opportunities for every undergraduate student, with options for either a 4-week short placement or an optional 30-week sandwich placement (extending the degree to 4 years), providing essential real-world experience and professional contacts. This degree is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), providing eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC).

A BSc (Hons) in Psychology with Forensic Investigation from Bournemouth University provides graduates with a highly sought-after interdisciplinary skillset, combining in-depth psychological understanding with practical knowledge of forensic processes. The BPS accreditation facilitates pathways into professional psychology, while forensic skills open doors in the criminal justice system. Career options include: Criminal Justice System (e.g., Police Officer, Crime Scene Investigator, Analyst roles within police forces or National Crime Agency, Intelligence Analyst, Probation Officer, Prison Officer, Youth Offending Team Officer); Forensic Psychology (requires further postgraduate training for roles like Forensic Psychologist); Research (e.g., in government agencies, academia, or private forensic companies); Victim Support and Charities; Cybercrime Analyst (utilizing psychological understanding of online behaviour); Data Analyst; and Further postgraduate study (e.g., MSc in Forensic Psychology, Investigative Forensic Psychology, or PhD). The emphasis on work placements significantly enhances employability.

Bournemouth University offers state-of-the-art equipment across two modern campuses, providing an excellent learning environment. The university prides itself on offering work placement opportunities for every undergraduate student, ensuring practical, real-world experience that is highly valued by employers. The Business School being accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) indicates a commitment to high-quality education and industry relevance across the university. The university boasts a strong connection to research, allowing students to learn from experts and potentially work on projects through schemes like the Research Apprenticeship Scheme. This course specifically allows students to apply psychology concepts to criminal investigation settings, learn from forensic experts, and gain research skills relevant to human behaviour in the criminal justice system.