Course Overview

Criminology is a fascinating field that explores the causes, consequences, and prevention of crime. By studying criminology, you can gain a deep understanding of criminal behaviour and the criminal justice system. Criminology draws upon knowledge from a range of social science disciplines including Sociology, Psychology and Law.

Amongst other things you will study:

  • How campaigns have led to changes in the law.
  • Types of crime, why crimes may go unreported, and real life cases
  • Explanations of crime and how to reduce it
  • The role of police, courts, judges and more
  • Ways to gather and assess evidence.

Assessment structure


Unit 1: Changing Awareness of Crime  (25%) A non- examination, controlled assessment  where students are asked to respond to a scenario regarding under reported crime. Students design a ‘campaign for change’. Students are able to use their course notes to assist in this unit.

Unit 2: Criminological Theories (25%) A written exam for 1hour 30 mins focusing on why people commit crimes.

Unit 3: Crime Scene to Courtroom (25%) A non- examination, controlled assessment where students are asked to display their knowledge of the criminal justice system from the moment a crime has been identified to the verdict.

Unit 4: Crime and Punishment (25%) A written exam for 1hour 30 mins focusing on understanding of criminogical theories, the process of bringing an accused to court and evaluating the effectiveness of social control.

  • Students are graded A*-E, similar to A-level qualifications
  • It is a modular course, the assessment is carried out throughout rather than just  at the end of the course.

What will I be able to do after completing the course? 

Criminology is a fascinating field that explores the causes, consequences, and prevention of crime. By studying criminology, you can gain a deep understanding of criminal behaviour and the criminal justice system, which can open up many career opportunities in law enforcement, criminal justice, social work, and more.
 

Entry Requirements

GCSE Maths and English Language at grade 4.