Criminology Degree Guide

At university, Criminology draws from sociology, psychology, law, and politics to examine the complex relationships between crime, offenders, victims, and institutions. It’s an ideal subject for students interested in tackling real-world issues like youth violence, cybercrime, drug policy, policing, or social justice.

This guide explores what you can expect from a Criminology degree in the UK, what you’ll study, how it compares internationally, which A levels are most useful, and where it can lead professionally.

Studying Criminology in the UK

Criminology is typically studied as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BSc), depending on whether the focus is more theoretical or research-oriented. The degree usually lasts three years in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and four years in Scotland.

It can be taken as a single honours subject or combined with others such as Sociology, Psychology, Law, or Forensic Science. Some universities offer a placement year or a professional pathway with real-world experience in criminal justice settings.

What You Study in a Criminology Degree

Criminology degrees are broad and multidisciplinary. You’ll explore both the causes and consequences of crime, as well as the workings of criminal justice institutions. Most courses include:

1. Introduction to Criminological Theory
You’ll study classical and contemporary theories explaining why people commit crimes, including:

• Biological and psychological explanations

• Sociological theories of deviance and control

• Marxist, feminist and critical criminologies

• Theories of punishment and social justice

2. The Criminal Justice System
You’ll learn how crime is managed and punished in society. Topics include:

• Policing and law enforcement

• Courts and sentencing

• Prisons and rehabilitation

• Youth justice

• Victim support and rights

3. Research Methods and Data Analysis
Criminology students are trained to investigate crime scientifically. This includes:

• Designing surveys and interviews

• Quantitative and qualitative research methods

• Data analysis and interpretation

• Ethics in criminological research

4. Contemporary Issues in Criminology
Later in the degree, students explore specific areas such as:

• Organised crime and gang cultures

• Cybercrime and digital surveillance

• Domestic and sexual violence

• Drug policy and substance use

• Race, class and inequality in the justice system

• Human trafficking and border crime

• Terrorism and security studies

5. Dissertation or Independent Project
Most final-year students complete an in-depth research project on a criminological topic of their choice. This allows for original research and practical application of theories and methods.

Teaching and Assessment

Criminology is taught through lectures, seminars, workshops, and group discussions. Assessment typically includes essays, case studies, exams, research reports, presentations and project work. Some degrees involve fieldwork or placements with police, probation, courts or charities.

Leading UK universities for Criminology include Leicester, Durham, Cardiff, Manchester, UCLan, Liverpool John Moores, and Kent, but many others offer excellent programmes with different specialisms.

Useful A Levels for Studying Criminology

There is no fixed A level requirement, but subjects that encourage critical thinking, research skills and social awareness are especially useful. These include:

• Sociology – provides a foundation in social structures and deviance

• Psychology – supports understanding of behaviour and mental health

• Law – introduces legal systems and terminology

• Politics – helpful for studying state power and justice policies

• History – builds research and essay-writing skills

• English Literature or Language – useful for analysis and communication

Many universities welcome applicants with a mix of humanities and social sciences.

Career Prospects

Criminology graduates enter a wide range of careers where knowledge of crime, justice and society is valued. Common roles include:

Criminal Justice and Legal Work

• Police officer or investigator

• Probation or prison officer

• Youth justice worker

• Crime scene or forensic analyst (with further training)

• Court caseworker or legal assistant

Public Policy and Research

• Government policy analyst

• Social researcher or think tank analyst

• Intelligence analyst or crime data specialist

• Victim support services

• Local authority roles in community safety

Charity and Advocacy

• Work with vulnerable groups, victims of crime or ex-offenders

• Roles in NGOs focused on human rights or criminal justice reform

Other Sectors

• Journalism or media specialising in crime reporting

• Education, outreach or mentoring

• Further academic research (e.g. MA or PhD in Criminology or Criminal Justice)

• HR or compliance roles in private sector firms

While some careers require further training or postgraduate study, a Criminology degree builds valuable skills in analysis, communication, critical thinking, and evidence-based reasoning.

Studying Criminology Internationally

In the USA, Criminology is often offered as a major within Criminal Justice programmes. Students explore crime trends, law enforcement, corrections, and social policy. Many programmes include internships with law enforcement or community organisations.

In Canada, Criminology is commonly studied as part of a four-year BA or BSc. Courses often address Indigenous justice, restorative justice and policy development, with opportunities for practical placements or co-op work.

In the EU, Criminology degrees are available in several countries, often in English in the Netherlands, Sweden and Germany. Courses tend to focus on justice systems, social policy, comparative law, and EU-wide crime issues.

In Australia and New Zealand, Criminology is offered as a three-year BA or as part of a double major with Psychology, Law, or Social Science. Courses often cover domestic violence, cybercrime, Indigenous justice and policing reform.

Final Thoughts

Criminology is a subject for students who want to understand the root causes of crime and help shape more effective, fair and humane responses to it. It is both an academic discipline and a practical tool for change, helping students link theory to policy, and research to real-world impact.