Psychology in Law (M3202)
Psychology in Law
Module M3202
Module details for 2026/27.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 4
Module Outline
This is intended as an interdisciplinary module bringing together the disciplinary perspectives of law and psychology by examining how psychological factors shape and influence legal processes. Students will explore how biases, perceptions, emotions, and social influences affect legal actors such as judges, juries, lawyers, and witnesses. The module uses case studies to illustrate how cognitive limitations, decision-making patterns, and behavioural tendencies can impact legal judgments and outcomes. By grounding psychological ideas in concrete legal contexts, students will develop a nuanced appreciation of the human element in law and its implications for justice and fairness.
Module learning outcomes
Demonstrate an understanding of key psychological concepts relevant to legal processes, including bias, memory, decision-making, and social influence
Analyse how psychological factors can affect the actions and decisions of legal actors such as judges, juries, lawyers, and witnesses.
Apply psychological insights to evaluate real and hypothetical legal scenarios, identifying potential risks to fairness and justice.
Explain the implications of human behaviour and cognition for the design and application of law.
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 40.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Log | T1 Week 10 | 62.50% |
| Presentation | T1 Week 5 (5 minutes) | 37.50% |
| Essay (1000 words) | Semester 2 Assessment Week 1 Mon 16:00 | 60.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Seminar | 1 hour | 111101110010 |
| Spring Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 222111100000 |
| Spring Semester | Seminar | 2 hours | 000000001000 |
| Spring Semester | Seminar | 3 hours | 000010000000 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
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