BA (Hons) Criminology
This BA (Hons) Criminology degree explores crime, victimisation and the criminal justice system through criminological, psychological, sociological and socio-legal perspectives. It may suit adults who want to understand how crime is defined, investigated and responded to, including topics such as policing, prisons, cybercrime, youth justice, media and victimology.
About this course
Criminology examines crime as a social issue: why it happens, who is affected, how it is represented, and how society responds. You will consider the causes and consequences of crime and deviant behaviour, alongside the workings of the criminal justice system and the experiences of victims.
The course draws on criminological theory, psychology, sociology and socio-legal perspectives. Topics include policing, prisons, youth justice, cybercrime, state and corporate crime, media portrayals of crime, social control, miscarriages of justice and victimology. You will also explore how crime is investigated and governed, including intelligence policing and wider questions of national security.
A research-focused element develops your ability to investigate criminological questions, evaluate evidence and present reasoned findings. The course concludes with a dissertation, allowing you to undertake an extended piece of independent research in an area of criminology that interests you.
What you will study
Study areas include:
• Becoming a Criminologist • A History of Crime and Punishment • Crime, Media, and Culture • Cybercrime: The Essentials • Policing Priorities • Working within the Criminal Justice System • The Prison • Youth Crime and Justice • Defending the Realm • Green Criminology • Researching the Field • Crimes of the Powerful • Serial Killers • Victimology • Miscarriages of Justice • Professional Practice: A Case Study • Dissertation
Flexible online study is available on a part-time basis, with a stated duration of three years or more. Blended study and a foundation year option are also available.
Modules
Level 4
- Becoming a Criminologist
- A History of Crime and Punishment
- Crime, Media, and Culture
- Cybercrime: The Essentials
- Policing Priorities
- Working within the Criminal Justice System
Level 5
- The Prison
- Youth Crime and Justice
- Defending the Realm
- Green Criminology
- Researching the Field
- Crimes of the Powerful
Level 6
- Serial Killers
- Victimology
- Miscarriages of Justice
- Professional Practice: A case study
- Dissertation
Entry requirements
Applicants normally need two GCE A levels or equivalent, plus GCSE passes at grade C or above in three subjects, or equivalent qualifications.
A completed recognised Access programme, or equivalent, may also be accepted.
Relevant work experience that demonstrates critical thinking and analytical skills may be considered. This route requires a personal statement, references and evidence of previous work experience.
English language requirements
English language evidence may include IELTS 6.0 overall, with no element below 5.5; TOEFL iBT 80; an equivalent English-language qualification; or evidence of previous study in English, such as confirmation that English was the medium of instruction.
Careers
This degree may support progression into roles and further training in policing, probation, criminal investigation, intelligence services, prison and court services, criminal justice research, government, social services, human rights, and community services.
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