Criminal Justice BA/BSc

Criminal Justice is the study of how societies respond to crime.

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.