Criminology

Applications Open: 5th December 2025

Applications Close: 31st January 2026

Entry Requirements: 5 GCSE grades of 4 or above of which must include English & Maths. Then individual subject criteria

Science and Maths - require level 7 in subject to study (plus 6 in maths for science subjects)

Most other courses require level 6 to study

This qualification looks at the types of crime that take place within our society. How do we decide which behaviour is criminal? How do we explain why some people commit crime and how can we use different theories of criminality to explain this behaviour? Criminology is an Applied General qualification primarily designed to support learners progressing to university; however, much of the course is vocationally relevant, offering opportunities to learn from practical activities and the expertise of professionals currently working in criminology. If you are fascinated by the workings of crime and punishment, this course could be for you!

During the first year you will study two Certificate units. Within these units you will look at different types of crime and public perceptions of crime, gaining an understanding of why some crimes go unreported to the police and media. The second Certificate unit, through its focus on a series of criminological theories, also allows learners to gain an understanding of why people commit crimes. During the second year of the course, the Diploma units will foster a deeper understanding of the criminal justice system and you will develop the skills needed to examine criminal cases and review verdicts. In the final unit, you will apply your knowledge of criminological theories to understand how and why we use punishment within the criminal justice system in order to achieve social control.

There are 4 units, and each is worth 25% of the certificate.

Students will need to have at least a grade 5 in GCSE English and a grade 5 in a GCSE humanities subject.

Criminology can open the door to an array of career paths that require understanding of the criminal justice sector. These may include careers in the police force or in police support roles, the field of forensic psychology, social and probation work or the prison services.