Looking for a Criminology and Criminal Psychology Degree in Europe?
Are you searching for a bachelor’s degree in criminology in Europe? Perhaps you’re wondering where to study criminal psychology and gain the practical skills needed to succeed in the fields of criminal investigation, forensic science, intelligence, or law enforcement.
Choosing the right programme is one of the most important decisions you will make. Your education will shape your future career opportunities, professional network, and the skills you develop throughout your journey.
At the European Forensic Institute (EFI), we understand the importance of combining academic excellence with real-world experience.
The BSc (Hons) in Investigative Criminology and Criminal Psychology has been designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of crime, criminal behaviour, investigative processes, and psychological profiling. Through a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, students develop the critical thinking, analytical, and investigative skills required in today’s criminal justice environment.
Delivered over three years, this recognised and accredited bachelor’s degree follows a blended learning approach that supports student success while providing opportunities for hands-on learning experiences in Malta.
Throughout the programme, students explore the causes of criminal behaviour, the psychology behind offending, investigative methodologies, forensic applications, intelligence analysis, and contemporary challenges facing criminal justice systems.
More than just a degree, this programme allows students to move beyond theory, examining real-world cases, understanding criminal decision-making, and developing the practical competencies required by modern investigative professionals.
Programme Structure and Module Outline
The BSc (Hons) Investigative Criminology and Criminal Psychology programme is structured to provide a progressive learning experience, enabling students to build a strong foundation in criminology and psychology before advancing to specialised investigative and forensic subjects.
For detailed information on the learning outcomes, competencies, knowledge, and skills associated with each module, please refer to the Programme Specification document, available for download in the Course Information section of the programme page
Below, you can explore the programme structure and module outline.
| ACADEMIC YEAR 1 |
| Module | ECTS | MQF/EQF Level | Compulsory / Elective | Total Learning Hours |
| History of Forensic Sciences and International Police Organizations | 4 | 5 | Compulsory | 100 |
| Techniques of Investigation and Intelligence | 10 | 5 | Compulsory | 250 |
| Research Methods and Professional Ethics | 4 | 5 | Compulsory | 100 |
| Crime Scene Investigation and Documentation | 12 | 5 | Compulsory | 300 |
| General Psychology | 10 | 5 | Compulsory | 250 |
| General Criminology | 10 | 5 | Compulsory | 250 |
| Physiological Psychology | 10 | 5 | Compulsory | 250 |
What Will You Achieve in Your First Year?
By the end of your first year, you will have developed a solid understanding of crime, criminal behaviour, forensic investigation, and evidence analysis. You will build a strong foundation in criminology, criminal psychology, and investigative processes while gaining practical experience in evidence collection, preservation, and analysis.
Through a combination of online learning, independent study, and hands-on laboratory sessions, you will develop the critical thinking, research, and analytical skills needed for more advanced studies and future professional practice in the forensic and investigative fields.
Upon successful completion of the first year, students will be prepared to progress to the second year of the programme.
| ACADEMIC YEAR 2 |
| Module | ECTS | MQF/EQF Level | Compulsory / Elective | Total Learning Hours |
| European and International Criminal Law | 10 | 6 | Compulsory | 250 |
| Computer Forensics | 10 | 6 | Compulsory | 250 |
| Criminal and Forensic Psychology | 12 | 6 | Compulsory | 300 |
| Witness Psychology, Behavioural Analysis and Interrogation Techniques | 8 | 6 | Elective | 200 |
| Neurocriminology | 6 | 6 | Elective | 150 |
| Prison Psychology | 6 | 6 | Elective | 150 |
| Forensic Pathology and Toxicology | 6 | 6 | Elective | 150 |
| Forensic Entomology and Archaeology | 6 | 6 | Elective | 150 |
| Forensic Medicine and Forensic Toxicology | 8 | 6 | Elective | 200 |
| Geographical Profiling | 6 | 6 | Elective | 150 |
| Video Forensics | 6 | 6 | Elective | 150 |
What Will You Achieve in Your Second Year?
During your second year, you will move beyond the foundations of criminology and criminal psychology and begin applying your knowledge in practical investigative and forensic contexts. From crime scene work and digital evidence acquisition to forensic reporting and laboratory analysis, you will develop the skills required to think, analyse, and operate like a future forensic professional.
By the end of the year, you will be confident working on complex case studies, collaborating with criminal justice professionals, and conducting research that reflects the challenges of modern investigations.
These experiences will prepare you for advanced forensic practice, research projects, and the final stage of your professional development. Upon successful completion of the prerequisite modules in the second academic year, you will also be eligible to begin your Practical Work Experience (PWE).
Students are encouraged to identify and apply for placements within the sector, organisation, or professional field that best aligns with their career aspirations. In addition, students may apply for opportunities offered through EFI’s Professional Partnership Programme (PPP), allowing them to gain valuable industry experience while completing the required number of practical training hours.
| ACADEMIC YEAR 3 |
| Module | ECTS | MQF/EQF Level | Compulsory / Elective | Total Learning Hours |
| Web and Open Source Intelligence | 8 | 6 | Compulsory | 200 |
| From Crime Scene to Court: Expert Witness | 8 | 6 | Compulsory | 200 |
| Ballistics and Firearms | 8 | 6 | Compulsory | 200 |
| Applied Criminology for Criminal Investigation and Security | 14 | 6 | Compulsory | 350 |
| Practical Work Experience | 16 | 6 | Compulsory | 400 |
| Final Dissertation | 6 | 6 | Compulsory | 150 |
What Will You Achieve in Your Final Year?
Your final year is designed to bridge the gap between academic study and professional practice. Building on the knowledge and skills developed throughout the programme, you will learn to think critically, evaluate complex information, conduct independent investigations, and apply evidence based, decision making to real world challenges.
Working alongside experienced practitioners and subject matter experts, you will develop the analytical, research, intelligence, and problem-solving skills required in today’s forensic, investigative, and security sectors. You will learn how to assess the reliability of information, analyse data from multiple sources, construct professional arguments, and contribute effectively to multidisciplinary teams.
The final year also provides valuable insight into the realities of the professional environment, helping you identify your strengths, refine your career goals, and prepare for employment or further specialisation. Through exposure to industry best practices and guidance from experts working in the field, you will graduate with the confidence, practical understanding, and professional mindset needed to succeed in the real world.
kindly refer to the main page of our Programme BSc (Hons) Investigative Criminology and Criminal Psychology to see the information related to requirements, admissions, career paths and more.
Contacts
European Forensic Institute
Malta Life Sciences Park
Sir Temi Zammit Buildings
San Gwann SGN 3000
Office Hours:
09:00 – 13:00 / 14:00 – 17:00
Licensed Higher Education Institution by the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA), Licence No. 2018-014.