Criminology Level 3 Diploma [Y1]

Not all crimes are alike. What different types of crime exist? How do we decide what behaviour is criminal? How do we explain why people commit crime? What happens to those who commit a crime? Why and how do we punish people? What organisations do we have in our society to control criminality? These, and other, similar questions are discussed and debated in the study of criminology. Students of criminology should have an interest in the world around them. An awareness of the role of the media in our perception of crime is beneficial. Learners should be curious about the reasons crimes are committed, and open to new ideas as we explore and challenge our preconceptions.

The course is divided into two parts � the certificate (year one) and the diploma (year two). In the first year, you will study unit 1 - different types of crimes, why people report / don�t report crime, and campaigns for change in criminal law � and unit 2: Criminological Theories, looking at different perspectives of why people commit crimes. In the second year, you will study unit 3, which take us from crime scene to courtroom, from forensics to trial, and unit 4, which considers what happens with sentencing and the reasons people obey the law (or not).

The first and third units are assessed through a controlled assessment, which takes place during class time � you can have notes for this assessment. It normally takes place around January of each year. The second and fourth units are assessed through a 1� hour exam at the end of each year. In addition, you will have regular homework and assessment practice. Due to the nature of the course, criminology requires you to apply your knowledge and understanding of the subject in real world situations, so that instead of explaining theory, you are using the theory to come to real life solutions.

Our general entry criteria to study 3 A-Levels is: Minimum five GCSEs grade 4-9 with English Language or Maths at grade 5. For a mixed Level 3 programme the criteria are: Minimum five GCSEs grade 4-9 with English Language or Maths at grade 4. Subject specific entry criteria apply: A GCSE grade 4 in English Language.

Most students will go on to study at university, often on criminology courses. Students may also pursue further study in related disciplines such as law, sociology and psychology. An understanding of criminology is useful in a variety of careers, such as the police, social work, the probation service or youth work.