About this course
This course is ideal for students who are interested in crime, criminal behaviour and the operation of the criminal justice system. You will explore why crimes are committed, how crime is investigated and how offenders are dealt with while developing your understanding of criminological theories and real-life case studies. Students who enjoy research, discussion and applying knowledge to contemporary issues will particularly benefit from this course.
Criminology combines elements of psychology, sociology and law, giving students a broad understanding of the causes and consequences of crime. Throughout the course, you will examine how crime is represented in society, evaluate the effectiveness of criminal investigations and consider different approaches to punishment and rehabilitation.
With a balance of examinations and coursework, this qualification offers an engaging mix of independent research, practical application and theoretical study, providing excellent preparation for higher education and careers within the criminal justice sector and related professions.
What will you learn?
Throughout the course, you will investigate crime from a variety of perspectives while developing your understanding of criminological theory, criminal investigations and the justice system.
Changing Awareness of Crime – different types of crime, media representation, unreported crime, campaigns for change and the social construction of criminality.
Criminological Theories – biological, psychological and sociological explanations of criminal behaviour and how these theories influence criminal justice policy.
Crime Scene to Courtroom – crime scene investigation, forensic science, police procedures, evidence gathering and the criminal trial process.
Crime and Punishment – aims of punishment, sentencing, rehabilitation, crime prevention strategies and evaluating the effectiveness of the criminal justice system.
Students will also develop an understanding of the relationship between crime, society and the law, while learning how evidence is collected, interpreted and used to make informed decisions about criminal behaviour and justice.
Who is this course aimed at?
The course is suitable for learners who enjoy investigating real-life case studies, evaluating evidence and considering different explanations for criminal behaviour. Criminology is particularly appropriate for students considering careers in policing, forensic science, probation, youth justice, law or the wider criminal justice system.
The course also suits students who enjoy a combination of examinations and coursework, allowing them to demonstrate their knowledge in different ways. Learners should be prepared to work independently, complete regular research tasks and meet coursework deadlines. This qualification provides an excellent foundation for higher education and vocational careers within the social sciences and public services.
Students should have achieved Grade 5 or above in GCSE English, with an average GCSE points score of 4.5 or above. A strong interest in crime, the criminal justice system and current affairs is expected. This course is best suited to students who enjoy analysing evidence, evaluating different viewpoints and exploring the causes and consequences of criminal behaviour.
Assessment takes place through a combination of controlled assessments (50%) and written examinations (50%). Students will complete internally assessed coursework alongside externally assessed exams, demonstrating their ability to research, analyse evidence, apply criminological theories and evaluate criminal justice processes in a range of realistic contexts.
Students will develop skills in:
Analytical thinking – interpreting evidence, evaluating criminological theories and constructing balanced arguments.
Communication and teamwork – collaborating, presenting findings and discussing contemporary criminal justice issues.
Research and investigation – gathering, evaluating and applying evidence from a range of reliable real-life cases.
Time management – organising coursework, meeting controlled assessment deadlines and preparing for examinations.
Problem-solving – applying criminological knowledge to realistic case studies and evaluating criminal justice responses.
Academic and professional skills – textual analysis, literacy, confidence, resilience, critical evaluation and understanding legal and criminal justice systems.
Progression routes
Possible progression routes include careers in:
Policing and law enforcement
Criminal justice, probation and youth justice services
Forensic science and crime scene investigation
Law and legal services
Social work and youth work
Counselling and mental health support
Teaching and education
Health and social care
Degree Routes:
Criminology, Criminal Justice, Law, Psychology, Sociology, Forensic Science, Social Work, Policing, Public Services and related social science degrees.
Apprenticeships:
Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship, public services, legal services, health and social care, youth justice and local government apprenticeship programmes.
This course also provides an excellent foundation for higher education and degree-level study, while developing transferable research, analytical, communication and evaluative skills that are highly valued by universities and employers across the criminal justice sector and beyond.
Related Courses
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