Module 1: Introduction to Forensics
- The Nature of Forensic Science
- Forensic Science and Law
- Evidence Collection
- Analysis of Evidence
- Specialist Forensic Services
- Criminology
- Psychological Disorders and Crime
- Criminal Profiling and Intelligence
- Presenting Evidence in Court
- Ethical Issues
This module was designed as an introduction to the scope and nature of forensic science; from how modern science can be applied in law, to how it can help to solve crimes. Discover how it draws on principles and methods from traditional sciences as well as specific forensic science techniques, such as anthropometry, fingerprinting, and blood stain analysis. Learn how evidence gathered using scientific principles is then prepared for submission in courts, to be presented impartially, to help uncover the truth.
Module 2: Criminal Psychology
- Introduction to Criminal Psychology
- Psychological approaches to understanding crime
- Psychology and Understanding Serious Crimes
- Mental disorder and crime 1 - Learning disabilities and crime
- Mental Disorder and Crime 2 (Psychopathy)
- Gender and Crime
- Youth and Crime
- Psychology and the Police
- Psychology in the Courtroom
- Psychology and Crime Prevention
This module aims to provide a fascinating insight into the mind of the criminal and what makes someone commit criminal offences. There are many different theories and approaches to understanding the origins of criminal behaviour, from social learning theories, to labelling theory, to individual differences.
It is important to understand different theories in order to nurture a broad understanding of how crime is conceptualised. Once this is in place you can better understand the thoughts and behaviours of criminals and people who cross the boundary of what is considered acceptable in society. You will gain an understanding of criminal psychology and how psychology is used in law enforcement and crime prevention.
Module 3: Legal Terminology
- Scope and Nature of Legal Terminology
- The Legal Workplace
- Legal Systems
- Contract & Business Law
- Property Law
- Wills, Probate, Estate Law
- Criminal Law
- Other Categories
This module aims to increase your understanding of legal terminology, which is useful for people in a variety of professions, from paralegals, to legal assistants and receptionists, to law enforcement officers, writers and journalists, campaigners and activists, to authorised government inspectors and officers. It’s also beneficial to those looking to improve their understanding of the government and the community.
Module 4: Abnormal Psychology
- Delirium, Dementia, Amnesic and Other
- Cognitive Disorders
- Substance-Related Disorders
- Schizophrenia and Other Psychotic Disorders
- Mood Disorders
- Anxiety Disorders
- Somatoform, Factitious, and Dissociative Disorders
- Sexual and Gender Identity Disorders
- Eating and Sleep Disorders
- Impulse-Control Disorders, Adjustment Disorder
- Personality DisordersDisorders Usually First Diagnosed in Infancy
Throughout this module, you will be introduced to a range of common psychological disorders, from their aetiology, symptoms, prognosis, to possible treatment options. Whilst the module largely mirrors classifications systems used in the DSM and ICD, the student is also encouraged to consider additional issues, such as the definition of normality and abnormality, and when is an individual’s behaviour within the bounds of what is regarded as “normal” in society and when is it “abnormal”?
The module aims to help you better understand common mental health issues so you can recognise and accommodate the behaviours of the people you work with and interact with, so you can relate and communicate with them in a more understanding and positively beneficial manner.
Module 5: Psychopharmacology (Drugs & Psychology)
- Introduction
- Effects of drugs on the individual and society
- Legally restricted drugs: Stimulants and narcotics
- Legally restricted drugs: Hallucinogens and marijuana
- Legally restricted drugs: Steroids
- Legal drugs: Alcohol
- Legal drugs: Tobacco, caffeine and solvents
- Prescription and over-the-counter drugs
- Sedatives and anti-anxiety drugs
- Prescription drugs for schizophrenia and affective disorders
- Treatment and preventative education
This module is designed to help you understand how different types of drugs (manmade and natural) can influence our behaviour. From substance abuse, dependency, and withdrawal effects on the nervous system, to the impacts of drugs on society, this introductory module provides a solid foundation to psychopharmacology.
You will learn how our thinking can be affected by both legal and illegal drugs, the effects of pain killers, alcohol and prescription drugs, and discover the differences between the main groups of illicit drugs and how to identify drug abuse and dependence.