This is an exciting new course on offer for the first time. Do you want to find out why people commit crime? Then Criminology is the subject for you. You will investigate the causes of crime, the impact of crime and examine why people turn to crime.

What is the structure of the course?

The Level 3 Diploma in Criminology is made up of four mandatory units: Changing Awareness of Crime, where students      develop an understanding of different types of crime, influences on perceptions of crime and why some crimes are      unreported. Criminological Theories enables students to gain an understanding of why people commit crime, drawing on what they have learned in Unit 1. Students explore the difference between criminal behaviour and deviance and the theories behind why people commit crime. Crime Scene to Courtroom provides students with an understanding of the criminal justice system from the moment a crime has been identified to the verdict. They develop the understanding and skills needed to examine information in order to review the justice of verdicts in criminal cases. Crime and Punishment allows students to apply their understanding of the awareness of criminality, criminological theories and the process of bringing an accused to court in order to evaluate the effectiveness of social control to deliver criminal justice policy. The course is assessed through a combination of two written examinations, set and marked by WJEC, and two centre – marked assignments.

What skill/requirements are essential?

Students will need and develop a range of generic and transferable skills including independent learning and development, the ability to solve problems, the skills of project-based research, development and presentation, the fundamental ability to work alongside other professionals, in a professional environment and the ability to apply learning in vocational contexts.

What do students think?

“I want to follow a career in the Police when I leave school so I think this course will really suit me and give me a flavour for what I will be studying.”

Where can this course lead?

An understanding of criminology is relevant to many job roles within the criminal justice sector, including police officers,     probation and prison officers, and social workers. With their critical thinking, analytical and communication skills, Criminology graduates are also attractive to employers outside the criminal justice sector in areas such as social research and politics. The Level 3 Diploma in Criminology has elements of Psychology, Law and Sociology that complement studies in humanities and the skills developed are transferable to a wide range of courses and careers.