Criminology is a subject with elements of psychology, law and sociology that complements studies in humanities but can be combined with any other A level subjects. The qualification carries UCAS points equivalent to one A level. It relies heavily on the use of case studies and will enable you to develop many valuable skill such as:
College entry, (please refer to the Entry Requirements section for further details).
The course is a combination of external exams and vocational style assignments. There are four units. Two of these are internal controlled assessment and two are internally assessed (coursework).
In the first unit you will learn about different types of crime, influences on perceptions of crime and why some crimes are unreported. The second unit will allow you to gain an understanding of why people commit crime. This will involve studying various possibilities such as biological theories of crime which consider a person’s genetic makeup and physical appearance in an attempt to show that people are born criminals. The third unit gives an in depth look at the criminal justice system, including the courts and the role of law enforcement officers and crime scene investigators. You will develop the skills needed to examine evidence and review verdicts in criminal cases. In the final unit, you will apply the knowledge you have gained in order to evaluate the effectiveness of the methods we use to control crime.
The course has been designed to support students going to university. It could lead to a variety of higher education degree courses, such as:
Alternatively, the qualification will give you the required understanding and skills to be able to consider employment in some areas of the criminal justice system, e.g. the National Probation Service, the police or the Courts and Tribunals Service. However these are just some of the possibilities.
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Our Elective Programme is designed to help you develop your gifts and interests as part of an enhanced level 3 programme. We will help you realise your potential by nurturing your talent and preparing you for study at the most prestigious universities or for progression to competitive higher-level apprenticeships. Your options range from our Honours Programme, which might include following a fourth A level, to specialist Futures Programmes that will support your career goals.
If you’re not quite ready to start on a Level 3 Technical course (T Levels) or a Vocational Level 3 course (BTEC) but want to begin on the path to your chosen career, the Transition Programme could be for you.
Transition Programmes are tailored to prepare students to move onto Technical or Vocational Level 3 study. They will give you the opportunity to improve your English and Maths, your work readiness skills and introduce you to the technical skills and concepts that you will need for future study and employment.
As part of the Transition Programme you will study a BTEC Level 2 Award in your chosen subject area as well as the BTEC Level 2 Extended Award in Work Skills. You will also have the opportunity to resit GCSE English and/or Maths if you have not yet achieved a grade 4.
Entry criteria for Transition Programmes is four grade 3s including grade 3s in English Language and Maths GCSE.
