THE University of Bolton is celebrating the right result.

Its BSc (Hons) Criminological and Forensic Psychology (CFP) course has been recognised by The British Psychological Society.

The Innovation in Psychology Programmes Award recognises the course's teaching standards after it was revamped in 2015 to give students the opportunity to work with outside agencies including Greater Manchester Police.

This included students playing a part in Project Chameleon, designed to raise understanding of the implications of crime among young people in Year Five by getting them to think differently about their behaviour and how it affects others.

The award panel also said they were impressed with the university’s opportunities for practical elements of learning, including taking part in masterclass seminars and in policing research. The university was also praised for providing work experience opportunities to develop skills in the workplace.

The changes to the course saw a rise in National Student Survey (NSS) scores, with students’ overall satisfaction with their course peaking at 95 per cent in 2017 compared to 79 per cent in 2015.

Dr Gill Allen, associate teaching professor in Psychology and Programme Lead BSc (Hons) Criminological and Forensic Psychology, said: "I am delighted to accept the Innovation award for the BSc (Hons) Criminological and Forensic Psychology programme at the University of Bolton.

"We strive to bring criminological and forensic psychology to life away from the classroom, through the array of innovative and practical learning opportunities afforded to our students. Our close working relationship with the police, the establishment of our very own student restorative justice panel and opportunities to work alongside forensic services within school settings really help our students consolidate their theoretical learning, ensuring they are well placed for future employment."

Professor Emerita Carol McGuinness of Queens University Belfast and chair of the BPS Education and Public Engagement Board added: "The BSC (Hons) Criminology and Forensic Psychology programme stood out as deserving the Innovation Award in several ways, but spectacularly in how community partnerships were designed into the students’ learning experiences. The panel were particularly impressed with the Restorative Justice Panel and Project Chameleon, and impact of the programme on students’ future employability. From their feedback, it was clear that the students rated the programme very highly and appreciated how special it was”.

The department will be formally bestowed with the award at The British Psychological Society annual conference.