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University & Professional Development

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Quick facts

Qualification type

Pearson Applied Psychology Extended Certificate and WJEC Diploma in Criminology which gives you a total of (2 A-Level Equivalent)

Duration

2 years

Study times

You will be expected to be in college for a minimum of 3 days per week, from 9:00 to 4:15. Your timetable will be confirmed at induction.

Entry requirements

5 GCSEs at Grade 5 and above, including Maths, English. There is no opportunity to study Math's and English alongside this course. You will also need to pass successfully a DBS check for work placement requirements. There will be no Maths or English timetables for this course.

Campus

West Suffolk Sixth Form Campus, Bury St Edmunds

Work placements

Compulsory 50 hours per year in related work experience for Health and Social Care units

 Assessments  This course is assessed through external exams and internal coursework.

 

By selecting this course, you will be studying Psychology and Criminology which makes up two A Level equivalents. Students will then need to select from the table below their final one A Level equivalent.

Health and Social Care

Human Biology

V Level Education

Mental Health and Wellbeing

Is it for me?

Are you fascinated by why people behave the way they do? Do you want to understand what causes crime, how criminals are investigated, and how psychology can help us explain human thoughts, emotions and actions? 
This exciting Psychology and Criminology course gives you the opportunity to explore human behaviour and the world of crime from psychological and criminological perspectives. You will investigate key psychological theories that explain why people think and behave differently, exploring areas such as social influence, memory, development, individual differences and psychological disorders. 
Alongside Psychology, you will examine some of the most fascinating questions within Criminology. Why do people commit crime? Why are some crimes more visible than others? How does the media influence our perception of crime? What happens from the moment a crime is committed through to a case reaching the courtroom? You will explore different explanations of criminal behaviour and consider how society attempts to prevent crime, punish offenders and reduce reoffending. 
The course will also develop your ability to analyse evidence, investigate theories, conduct research, construct arguments and evaluate different explanations of behaviour and crime. You will be encouraged to question assumptions, consider different viewpoints and use evidence to reach justified conclusions. 


Psychology and Criminology is an excellent choice if you enjoy discussing real-world issues, investigating human behaviour and examining complex questions where there may not always be one simple answer. 

What you'll learn

Psychological Approaches 
Conducting Research in Psychology 
Health Psychology
Introduction to Psychopathology
Changing Awareness of Crime 
Criminological Theory 
Crime Scene to Courtroom
Crime and Punishment
Human Lifespan Development 
Meeting Individual Care and Support Needs
Working in Health and Social Care
Promoting Public Health
Principles of Safe Practice in Health and Social Care

Equipment required for the course

You will be required to provide IT (laptop, IPAD with keyboard, Mac book or Chrome book)

Assessment

This course is assessed through external exams and internal coursework.

Example careers

Forensic Psychologist - Applying psychological principles to criminal investigations and legal processes.

Criminal Justice Worker - Roles in policing, probation, or youth offending teams.

Mental Health Support Worker - Assisting individuals with mental health issues in community or clinical settings.

Health Promotion Specialist - Working on public health campaigns to improve well-being and prevent illness.

Social Worker - Supporting vulnerable individuals and families in health, justice, or welfare sectors.

Counselor or Therapist - Helping individuals cope with mental health issues or trauma.

Researcher or Academic - Specialising in psychology, criminology, or health-related fields.

Substance Abuse Counselor - Supporting those dealing with addiction.

Days & times

Starting September 2027


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