Criminology & Sociology BA/BSc

Criminology and Sociology is an interdisciplinary degree that examines both crime and wider society. It explores why people commit crimes, how justice systems respond, and how broader social structures such as class, gender, race and culture shape human behaviour. This combined degree is ideal for students who are reflective, analytical and eager to understand the relationship between crime, justice and society.

Course Structure

Most Criminology and Sociology degrees last three years full time, or four years with a placement or study abroad. Joint programmes allow you to study both disciplines equally, often with the chance to specialise in later years.

Teaching includes lectures, seminars, case studies, workshops, group debates, independent research and sometimes placements in criminal justice or community organisations. Assessment methods usually involve essays, reports, exams, policy briefs, group projects and a dissertation.

Typical Modules

Year 1 – Foundations of Criminology and Sociology

Introduction to Criminology

Introduction to Sociology

Crime and Society

Social Problems and Inequalities

Criminal Justice Systems

Social Research Methods

Year 2 – Core Development

Theories of Crime and Deviance

Classical and Contemporary Sociological Theory

Victimology

Race, Class, Gender and Identity

Youth Crime and Justice

Research Methods in Sociology and Criminology

Year 3 – Advanced Study and Research

Global Crime and Justice

Social Movements and Political Protest

Crime, Media and Culture

Power, Inequality and Social Change

Dissertation or Independent Research Project (in either criminology or sociology)

Optional modules may include terrorism, green criminology, digital society, human rights or global migration.

Useful A-Level or BTEC Subjects

Entry requirements vary, but useful subjects include:

• A levels: Sociology, Psychology, Politics, Law or History.

  
  

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

  
  

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

What Makes a Strong Application

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

• Good grades in essay-based subjects.

  
  

• A personal statement showing curiosity about crime, justice and wider social issues.

  
  

• Evidence of wider engagement, such as volunteering in youth groups, charities, legal services or community projects.

  
  

• Awareness of current debates, such as prison reform, inequality, policing or social justice movements.

Transferable Skills You Will Develop

A Criminology and Sociology degree provides a versatile set of skills, including:

• Critical analysis – examining both crime and wider social structures.

  
  

• Research methods – designing surveys, interviews, case studies and statistical analysis.

  
  

• Communication – writing reports, essays and presenting ideas effectively.

  
  

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

  
  

• Cultural awareness – understanding social diversity and inequality.

  
  

• Policy evaluation – analysing the effectiveness of social and justice systems.

Wider Reading: Recommended Books for Aspiring Students

Here are four accessible books to inspire and prepare you:

“Criminology: A Very Short Introduction” by Tim Newburn – A clear introduction to the study of crime.

“Sociology: A Very Short Introduction” by Steve Bruce – An engaging overview of sociology.

“The Secret Barrister” by The Secret Barrister – A highly readable insight into the justice system.

“The Sociological Imagination” by C. Wright Mills – A classic exploring how personal experiences connect to wider social structures.

Typical Pay After Graduation

Criminology and Sociology graduates enter diverse careers. Starting salaries are typically £22,000–£28,000 in areas such as social research, probation, community safety, local government, policy analysis and charities. With experience, roles in consultancy, justice reform, public policy, or social services can earn £30,000–£45,000. Senior positions in government, academia, NGOs or leadership may reach £50,000–£70,000+.