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.
Total contact hours: 22
Private study hours: 128
Total study hours: 150
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
Examination 2 hours (100%)
Reassessment methods: Like-for-Like
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)
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
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