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PSY311 - Introduction to Forensic Psychology

2026

Sector

Higher Education

Discipline

Psychology

Credit Points

Unit Level

300

Equivalent Units

Prerequisites

Incompatible

PSY211

Coerequisites

Assumed Knowledge

PSY150 or PSY140, PSY151 or PSY141 and PSY101

Unit Description

This unit is designed to introduce students to the theories, models, and research related to the field of forensic psychology. Students will analyse and evaluate human behaviour within the forensic context. Fundamental principles involved in research and practice within forensic psychology will be examined; the Australian justice system and judicial processes, contributing factors of offending, eye witness evidence, mental health issues in the forensic context, deception, risk assessment, offender profiling, restorative justice, rehabilitation and offender program delivery. This unit highlights the role of psychological theory, research and practice in contributing to the effectiveness of the correctional system.

Unit Learning Outcomes

1.	Describe the structure of the criminal justice system in Australia and internationally and evaluate judicial processes.
2.	Identify and explain risk and protective factors associated with delinquency and adulthood criminality.
3.	Synthesise knowledge, skills, methods and techniques required for forensic psychology.
4.	Outline and assess the strategies used in deception and detecting lies, eyewitness interviewing and testimony, assessing risk, offender profiling.
5.	Assess the strengths and limitations of contemporary offender programs and program delivery.
6.	Critically evaluate the impacts of culture, difference and diversity in context to forensic psychology.
7.	Demonstrate proficiency in a range of effective communication skills.

Assessment Overview

	Assessment Task	Value (of total mark)	Related Learning Outcome/s
1.	Quiz (10 minutes)	10%	1,3
2.	Essay (1500 words)	40%	1,2,3,4,5,7
3.	Case Study (750 words)	20%	3,4,6,7
4.	Test (1 hour)	30%	1,2,3,4,5,6

Unit Availability

Year	Semester	Att Mode	Location	Learning Method	Timetable*
2026	Semester 2	External	External Studies	OLR	View

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OLR: Internet access is required for this unit as students are required to access study materials provided on-line through Learnline. Please log into Learnline on the first day of each teaching period. For more information about Learnline, please click here.

Critical Dates

Important Dates for Students

Fee Information:
Fees and Payments
Student Services and Amenities Fees
2026 Domestic Unit Fees (PDF)
2026 Incidental Fees (PDF)