Criminology BA/BSc

Criminology is the study of crime, justice and social responses to offending. It examines why people commit crime, how societies define criminal behaviour, and how justice systems respond. A Criminology degree is ideal for students who are curious about law, psychology and sociology, and who want to explore how crime and justice impact individuals and communities.

Course Structure

Most Criminology degrees last three years full time, or four years with a placement or study abroad option. Many universities offer joint degrees such as Criminology and Sociology, Criminology and Law, or Criminology and Psychology.

Teaching includes lectures, seminars, case studies, simulations, guest lectures from practitioners, and sometimes placements in criminal justice organisations. Assessment methods usually involve essays, reports, exams, group projects, policy briefs, and a final-year dissertation.

Typical Modules

Year 1 – Foundations of Criminology

Introduction to Criminology

Crime and Society

Criminal Justice Systems (UK and global)

Social Research Methods

Psychology and Crime

Policing and Social Control

Year 2 – Core Development

Theories of Crime and Deviance

Penology (prisons and punishment)

Criminological Research Methods

Victimology

Youth Crime and Justice

Optional modules such as media and crime or organised crime

Year 3 – Advanced Themes and Research

Crime, Power and Inequality

Human Rights and Global Justice

Cybercrime and Digital Policing

Criminal Justice Policy and Reform

Dissertation or Independent Research Project

Optional modules may include terrorism, gender and crime, green criminology, or comparative justice.

Useful A-Level or BTEC Subjects

Entry requirements vary, but helpful subjects include:

• A levels: Sociology, Psychology, Law, Politics, or History. Typical offers range from BBC–ABB.

  
  

• BTECs: Applied Law, Applied Science, Health and Social Care, or Public Services may be considered.

  
  

• International Baccalaureate: Higher Level subjects in Sociology, Psychology or Global Politics are useful.

What Makes a Strong Application

Universities look for students who are analytical, reflective and socially aware. A strong application should include:

• Good grades in essay-based subjects.

  
  

• A personal statement showing interest in crime, justice and social policy.

  
  

• Evidence of wider engagement, such as volunteering with youth projects, charities, legal organisations or community safety initiatives.

  
  

• Awareness of current issues in crime and justice, such as prison reform, policing or cybercrime.

Transferable Skills You Will Develop

A Criminology degree builds versatile academic and professional skills, including:

• Critical thinking – analysing causes of crime and justice responses.

  
  

• Research methods – conducting surveys, interviews and case studies.

  
  

• Data analysis – working with crime statistics and patterns.

  
  

• Communication – writing policy briefs and presenting arguments.

  
  

• Problem-solving – applying theory to real-world justice issues.

  
  

• Cultural awareness – understanding crime and justice in global contexts.

Wider Reading: Recommended Books for Aspiring Criminology Students

Here are four engaging books to inspire and prepare you:

“Criminology: A Very Short Introduction” by Tim Newburn – A concise and accessible overview.

“The Oxford Handbook of Criminology” (edited by Alison Liebling, Shadd Maruna and Lesley McAra) – A comprehensive guide often used at university.

“Discipline and Punish” by Michel Foucault – A classic study of prisons, punishment and social control.

“The Secret Barrister” by The Secret Barrister – A highly readable look at the realities of the UK justice system.

Typical Pay After Graduation

Criminology graduates work across many sectors. Starting salaries are typically £22,000–£28,000 in roles such as probation, policing, research, community safety and charities. With experience, careers in criminal justice policy, social research, youth justice or law enforcement can earn £30,000–£45,000. Senior roles in government, consultancy, NGOs or leadership within justice services may reach £50,000–£70,000+.