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It explores the systems and institutions that deal with crime prevention, law enforcement, legal processes, punishment and rehabilitation. The subject draws on criminology, sociology, psychology, law and public policy. If you’re interested in how the justice system works, why people commit crimes and how to create safer communities, a Criminal Justice degree could be a great fit.
What Is Criminal Justice Like at University?
Criminal Justice is an interdisciplinary degree that focuses on the structure and function of criminal justice systems. You’ll study the police, courts, prisons and probation services and examine how they operate individually and together. You’ll also learn about theories of crime, the rights of victims and offenders and how issues like race, class and mental health affect justice. Many courses include practical elements such as case studies, debates, field visits and mock trials. You’ll also develop critical thinking and analytical skills to evaluate real-world criminal justice issues.
How Long Does It Take and What Are the Options?
In the UK, Criminal Justice is usually offered as a three-year BA or BSc degree. Some universities offer a four-year version with a placement year in the criminal justice sector. It is also available as a joint honours course with subjects like Criminology, Law, Psychology or Sociology. Some degrees focus more on the legal and procedural side of the justice system, while others explore crime and punishment from a more social science perspective. Be sure to check the course content to find the best fit for your interests.
How Will You Be Taught and Assessed?
Teaching typically includes lectures, seminars, workshops and independent study. You’ll read case law, analyse reports, discuss controversial issues and sometimes attend talks from professionals working in policing, law or rehabilitation. Assessment may include essays, reports, exams, presentations and project work. Many universities also offer opportunities to take part in voluntary work, internships or research with justice organisations.
What A Levels or Subjects Do You Need?
Most universities don’t require specific A levels for Criminal Justice but subjects that are useful include:
Sociology
Psychology
Law
Politics
Criminology
English or History
BTECs in Public Services or Applied Law are often accepted too. What’s most important is a demonstrated interest in law, justice and society. Any experience with volunteering, youth work or legal shadowing can help strengthen your application.
What Skills Will You Develop?
A Criminal Justice degree gives you a range of practical and transferable skills, including:
Understanding of the justice system and legal processes
Critical thinking and argument development
Ethical reasoning and awareness of human rights
Research and policy analysis
Communication and report writing
Problem-solving and decision-making
Teamwork and public engagement
These skills are useful in many sectors including law enforcement, government, social care and education.
What Can You Do With a Criminal Justice Degree?
Graduates go on to work in a wide range of roles across public services, criminal justice and social reform. Popular career paths include:
Police officer or community support officer
Probation officer or youth offending team worker
Prison officer or rehabilitation caseworker
Court officer or legal executive (with further training)
Crime analyst or intelligence officer
Policy adviser or researcher for government or think tanks
Victim support or community outreach worker
Border Force or immigration services
Many graduates also go into postgraduate study or professional training in areas like law, criminology, social work, counterterrorism or forensic psychology.
Studying Criminal Justice Abroad
Criminal Justice is a subject with global relevance and there are many study options outside the UK. Here's what to expect in different regions.
USA
In the US, Criminal Justice is one of the most popular undergraduate majors. You’ll study the American legal system, law enforcement agencies, corrections and courts. Programmes often include internships with police departments, correctional facilities or courts. Universities like John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York specialise in this field. After graduation, students often enter law enforcement, federal agencies or graduate study in law or public policy.
Canada
Canadian universities offer degrees in Criminal Justice, Criminology and Law and Justice. Programmes are usually four years long and include placements or fieldwork. Schools such as Simon Fraser University and the University of Ottawa have strong reputations. Graduates often work in policing, corrections, youth justice or government policy.
European Union
In the EU, Criminal Justice is often part of criminology or law degrees. Countries like the Netherlands, Sweden and Ireland offer English-taught programmes in law and justice with strong theoretical and social science components. Many degrees have an international focus on human rights and EU law enforcement cooperation.
Australia
Australian universities offer three-year bachelor’s degrees in Criminal Justice, Criminology or Justice Studies. These often include professional practice placements or internships. Institutions like Griffith University and the University of New South Wales offer degrees with options to specialise in policing, cybercrime, youth justice or security studies.
New Zealand
New Zealand universities such as the University of Canterbury and Victoria University of Wellington offer degrees in Criminology and Criminal Justice. These include a mix of legal studies, social science and applied justice. Students often work with government departments or NGOs as part of their degree.
Studying abroad can offer insights into different justice systems, policies and social contexts. This is especially useful if you're interested in international law, human rights or comparative justice systems.
Is Criminal Justice the Right Course for You?
Criminal Justice is a great choice if you’re interested in how societies respond to crime, believe in fairness and want to make a difference. It suits students who enjoy debate, critical thinking and working with complex social and legal issues. Whether you want to work in law enforcement, reform the justice system or support victims and communities, a Criminal Justice degree gives you the tools to build a meaningful and impactful career.
