Entry Requirements:

You will normally need to have passed an Access course or to have obtained a score under the UCAS Tariff of 120-180 points. 80 UCAS points need to be attained at A Level standard, BTEC National or equivalent. We are also keen to talk to people who have a genuine interest in this subject and would be happy to discuss your experience in the absence of normal qualifications.

How to Apply

Applications should be made through UCAS to the University of Bedfordshire. The application deadline date for this courses is January 15, 2010.

Key Features 

• Introduction to theoretical perspectives and research within psychology and criminology
• Design and implementation of research using a range of methods
• Identification of ethical issues that arise around theory and research
• Opportunity to experience relevant work placements where knowledge gained can be analysed and assessed in practical situations.

About the Course

This course covers a general introduction to psychology and criminology, including research methods, e.g. experiments, observation studies and surveys. Important aspects of theory are the understanding of people's behaviour in groups and the development of an individual through childhood, adolescence and maturity. Specific topics include conformity, response to authority, aggression, human lifespan development and the diversity of human beings.

You will also experience personal development planning where you will reflect on your own performance and learning throughout the course. This will include the development of study skills, working in groups, time management and what it means to study at Higher Education level. An important part of your personal development will be the work placements, one in year 1 and one in year 2. We are developing a wide range of opportunities for work placement to meet the interests of individual students where possible.

Course Content

Most modules have two assessments from a range of methods. These involve essays, presentations, exams (mainly multiple choice), practical research with a written report and portfolios. Portfolios are an important element of work placement and How to Get Ahead in Psychology/Personal Development. You will be provided with an assessment schedule with hand-in dates at the start of the year along with your module handbooks.

Next Steps

The Foundation Degree will be of benefit to anyone working or wanting to work in areas such as social work, the judiciary, policing or education. You can however, continue into a third year at the University of Bedfordshire on the BSc Psychology, the BSc Psychology and Criminal Behaviour or BA Criminology programmes. This progression will provide an Honours Degree.

It will not, however lead to GBR (Graduate Basis of Registration) status issued by the British Psychological Society, which is necessary to become a professional Psychologist, e.g. educational or clinical. If this becomes your aim, then you would need to take further modules after your Honours Degree.

Career Opportunities

The Foundation Degree and the Honours Degree can take you into the police force, various types of social work, e.g. training for probation work. An Honours Degree can take you into a wide range of occupations, including the above, plus human resources training and other roles in industry.