Do you want to think differently about the world you live in; gain experience in relevant organisations; and graduate equipped to help change society for the better? Studying BSc (Hons) Criminology will help you achieve this.
The course provides you with an understanding of the causes of crime and victimisation. You will also make sense of behaviour by studying the criminal justice system and punishment. You will begin to understand how characteristics such as race, gender, age and social class relate to individuals’ experiences of crime, victimisation and justice.
This course provides an excellent foundation for a career in a number of criminal justice agencies, including the police, probation or prison services.
Why us?
- Our Sociology courses (which includes Criminology) are in the top 10 in the UK for Satisfaction with teaching according to The Guardian University league tables 2018
- Our Sociology courses (which include BSc (Hons) Criminology) are in the top 25% for Learning opportunities and Assessment and feedback, according to the National Student Survey 2018
- Applied research methods – we offer training in computer-assisted data analysis software
- Variety of specialist optional pathways
- Applied route in criminology and criminal justice – we offer an optional 84-hour work placement, visits to courts and prisons, talks from practitioners, and links into practice through volunteering opportunities
- Many teaching staff are Fellows of the Higher Education Academy
- Teaching staff are research-active, which enhances the curriculum and student experience
Course structure
You will be able to develop specialities in criminology in the areas which most interests you and graduate with the knowledge and skills you need for a fulfilling career. These specialist pathways include: policing, surveillance and crime prevention; inequality, diversity and gender-based violence; psychology, mental health and offending; race, racism and criminal justice; and young people, crime and justice.
The additional pathway of ‚applied criminology’ allows you to undertake a placement in criminology. From this, you will gain valuable work experience. Furthermore, as part of the ‚applied’ pathway, you will have the opportunity to visit a criminal court or prison, as well as hear from practitioners. Finally, you are able to take advantage of ample volunteering opportunities offered to you, in relevant work organisations.
This course is taught via lectures, seminars, group work, computer-based learning, and independent study.
Your progress will be assessed with written coursework, research projects, presentations, and exams. Throughout the degree you’ll have one-to-one support from academic staff.
Part-time study
If you study this course on a part-time basis you will typically complete 40-80 credits in a year, rather than the 120 credits of full-time students. all modules are taught during the day, and you will be studying alongside full-time students.
Employment
Many BSc (Hons) Criminology graduates develop careers in the police, probation and prison services, youth justice agencies, and crime and disorder reduction partnerships.
Graduates have also gone on to work at the civil service, local and central government, voluntary sector, and policy/research institutions.
From 2020, all new police officers in England and Wales will have to be educated to degree level.
Voluntary work and placements
You can choose to incorporate an 84-hour work placement in your degree. This is an excellent way to gain real-world experience, and can help you decide which career path to take.
We have links with a number of organisations which offer placements and voluntary work opportunities, including Northumbria Police, the Probation Service, HM Prison Service, youth offender teams, community rehabilitation companies, criminal courts, and victim support agencies.
