The Criminology BSc (Hons) course will delve into the causes and effects of crime and criminal behaviour. It covers specialist areas including youth violence and gangs, organised crime, and terrorism and security, as well as developing your understanding of criminological theories including the assumptions that underlie intervention and control. You’ll look in-depth at the Criminal Justice System, including the police, judiciary and prisons, examining the concept of justice and sentencing.
The degree will give you a strong grasp of research methods used in criminal investigations and expose you to social, political, ethical and historical aspects of criminology. Through optional modules in your second and third year, you’ll begin to specialise in areas in criminology including technology and media, victims of crime, terrorism and counterterrorism, and gender and sexuality. There’s also the opportunity to undertake a placement module that will give you the opportunity to enhance your learning experience and apply knowledge learned throughout the degree to real-life situations.
You’ll be taught by leading researchers and practitioners in the fields of policing and probation, receive the most up-to-date advice on careers and gain the qualification needed to take on roles in policing, probation, the prison service, or academic research or policy development.
We offer the following joint honours programmes:
- Criminology and Law BA (Hons)
- Criminology and Policing BSc (Hons)
- Criminology and Psychology BSc (Hons)
- Criminology and Sociology BSc (Hons)
- Criminology and Youth Studies BSc (Hons)
Visit our criminology subject hub for news and events from the University.
Assessment
You’re assessed via essays, seen and unseen examinations, research projects and a final dissertation.
What our students say
„After I graduate I would like to be a police inspector for the Met. I chose this course because it is specifically related to crime and criminal investigation. I have found it really interesting so far it is giving us a wide perspective on criminology and a good understanding of what I can expect from a career in this field. The lecturers have been friendly, helpful and approachable. In the first year, we visited Marylebone Road Magistrates Court to observe how hearings are presented and what goes on that was a really interesting assignment. I also did some mentoring at HM Prison Holloway (the women’s prison), where I was finding ways to help women integrate back into society.”
Mafalda Guerra.
After the course
Successful completion of this degree offers improved career opportunities within the Criminal Justice System, in particular, the police service, probation service and areas of victim support. Our graduates have become police officers, criminal lawyers and teachers.
The programme is also excellent preparation for further research or study.
