Level 3 Diploma in Criminology

Applications Open - Monday 2nd November 2026

Applications Close - Open all year

How to Apply – Please apply through KentChoices and use your KentChoices login which your school should provide

PLEASE NOTE - Popular courses can fill up quickly so apply early to avoid disappointment

If you have any queries regarding the courses, please contact EKC Canterbury College

You can make up to 5 applications to Colleges within the EKC Group, that is:

• EKC Ashford College
• EKC Broadstairs College*
• EKC Canterbury College*
• EKC Dover College
• EKC Folkestone College*
• EKC Sheppey College

*Junior Colleges exist in these locations.

Please only add one course or T Level per application, except for A Levels at EKC Canterbury College, where up to 4 A Level courses can be added per application. At your interview, you and the tutors can discuss the best level and courses in order for you to progress.

Criminology is a two-year, modular A Level equivalent course exploring the causes, nature and control of criminal behaviour in individuals and society.

This interdisciplinary subject combines psychology, sociology, law and social science to examine why crime occurs. You will study real-world case studies, analysing factors such as family background, mental health and social influences.

The course develops skills in research, analysis and critical thinking, preparing you to understand, predict and help prevent crime. It also provides a strong foundation for careers in law enforcement, criminal justice and related fields.

You will cover a range of topics such as:

Changing Awareness of Crime - Different types of crime, such as hate crime, domestic abuse, honour crime, cybercrime and white-collar crime. Reasons why some crimes tend to go unreported, and the consequences of this for the victim, the offender, and the wider community. How the media represents crime, for example in new reports, TV shows, films and games, and how this impacts on how the public perceive crime. Methods of studying and collecting data on crime. Campaigns for change in the awareness or legal situation of specific crimes.

Criminological Theories - The definition of criminal behaviour and deviance. The social construction of criminality and how our perceptions of what is criminal change over time, culture and situations. Biological theories of criminality, including the role of genes. Individualistic theories of criminality such as the role of childhood experiences. Sociological theories of criminality, including the impact of social structure and labelling. How social change and campaigns lead to changes in the law.

Crime Scene to Courtroom - The process of criminal investigations. Investigative techniques. How evidence is processed. Trial processes.

Crime and Punishment - The processes of law making and the organisation of the criminal justice system. Forms of social control. Aims of punishment. Roles, contributions and effectiveness of agencies of social control.

You will sit an exam and a controlled assessment in Year One, and a second examination paper and controlled assessment in Year Two.

Criminologists work in a number of areas. A Criminology degree offers good career opportunities in fields such as policing, criminal justice, social work, the prison service, probation, youth offending, drug/alcohol services, victim support and many more.

You will also be equipped to enter a degree apprenticeship, working in the field.

Students can also choose to begin entry-level employmet after completing the course.