Criminology

Course Description

The level 3 Criminology course includes aspects from a range of disciplines such as Psychology, law and Sociology to provide an understanding of criminal behaviour, and the criminal justice system. The course uses a range of assessments such as written exams and controlled assessments. The students understanding of the criminal justice system and criminal behaviour with references to real life cases will be developed throughout the 2 year course.

Criminology uses relevant and current criminal cases to teach different types of crime, as well as discussing the changes in law and punishment. Throughout the two years the students will use booklets provided by the college to complete notes and research campaigns or cases, as well as summary documents to ensure knowledge is organised. In addition, the students are provided the opportunity to analysis current events from the news and social media apply their knowledge and understanding of criminological theories to explain behaviour.

Students will learn about theories of offending behaviour, such as genetic theories, sociological and psychological theories of criminality. Students will be able to confidently explain what they think the UK should do to punish and rehabilitate offenders, and will be able to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the criminal justice system.

Criminology is a course to engage students interest in criminal behaviour and the criminal justice system, explore true crime events and understand the inner workings of law making and retribution.

Criminology is a popular course for those who wish to progress to university and persue careers in the criminal justice system or civil service. This course provides the students with a range of employability skills such as ICT skills, presentation skills and communication skills which provides the students with a strong foundation of knowledge that is useful for further education or employment.

Unit 1 – Changing awareness of crime

Unit 2- Criminological theories

Unit 3- Crime scene to courtroom

Unit 4- Crime and Punishment

•      Analyse and interpret data collected on crime statistics.

•      Research & organise material from various sources

•      Engage in effective teamwork

•      Problem-solve and reason effectively

•      Evaluate research, theories and ideas

•      Take a variety of perspectives on different issues e.g. causes of criminality.

•      Be sensitive to interpersonal factors (e.g. behaviour and social interactions, e.g what is crime and what is deviance.

•      Use independent planning and project management skills to present findings and perspectives.

•      Evaluation skills aided by their interpretation of theories to assess the usefulness of the theory or organisations in Criminal justice system.

•      Critical thinking with evidence to support their conclusions.

•      Research skills aided by independent study skills reviewing criminal’s cases and the validity of the case.

•      Communication during discussion and debates.

•      Organisation.

•      Creation of merchandise and materials useful for campaigning for social change.

Careers

Civil service administrator (carry out government policies and deliver vital services to the public)

Community development worker.

Crime scene investigator.

Detective.

Police officer.

Prison officer.

Probation officer.

Social worker.

Youth Worker.

Solicitor.

Crime Analyst.

Paralegal.

Forensic Psychologist.

2 Written exams – 90 minutes

2 controlled assessments (with booklets) – 8 hours

Criminology alumni

Lucy Topping

Criminology, Fine Art, BTEC Law

A*AD*

Criminology at The University of Huddersfield

Lucy Topping

Criminology, Fine Art, BTEC Law

A*AD*

Criminology at The University of Huddersfield