Criminology

About this course

This criminology degree examines how crime is defined, explained and responded to within society. You will consider criminological theory alongside crime, justice and social control, the criminal justice system, policing, prisons, probation and punishment.

The course also addresses contemporary issues including cybercrime, terrorism, media representations of crime, migration, victimisation, and the relationship between crime, identity, gender, race, ethnicity and culture. Further study considers international criminology, forensic and criminal psychology, evidence and testimony, and crimes committed by powerful actors.

You will develop qualitative and quantitative research skills, learn to interpret evidence, and complete a dissertation. The course also includes AI literacy for future professional practice. A four-year route with a foundation year is available alongside the three-year full-time route.

What you will study

The foundation year includes Communication Skills, Digital and Research Skills, Sustainability and Society, and a Foundation Year Project. It also introduces core concepts in criminology, business, computer science, law and psychology.

Degree-level modules include Criminological Theory, Criminal Justice System, Media, Representation, and Crime, Contemporary Issues in Criminology, Prisons and Probations, Identity, Diversity, and Criminology, Cybercrime, Victims and Victimisation, International Criminology, Policing and the Police, Society and Punishment, Forensic and Criminal Psychology, Evidence, Testimony, and Forensics, and Crimes of the Powerful.

You will study qualitative and quantitative research methods, complete a workplace module, develop AI literacy for professional practice, and undertake a dissertation.

Modules

Assessment

Assessment may include essays, presentations, policy briefing papers, a rapid evidence review, an evaluation of an agency, a self-reflective diary, practice-based research methods assessments and a dissertation.

Entry requirements

For the three-year degree route, typical entry requirements are A levels at BBC, a BTEC at DMM, or 112 UCAS Tariff points. GCSE English Language at grade C/4 or above, or an equivalent qualification, is also required.

Entry requirements for the foundation year route differ from those listed above.

English language requirements

GCSE English Language at grade C/4 or above, or an equivalent qualification.

Careers

This course may support progression into criminology and roles across the criminal justice and wider justice sectors. Possible areas include probation services and work as a criminologist, subject to any employer-specific requirements.