Criminology is an exciting and relevant Level 3 course that explores crime, criminal behaviour and the criminal justice system. It combines elements of law, psychology and sociology to help students understand why crime happens, how society responds to it, and how criminal cases move through the justice system.
This is a two-year Level 3 Applied Diploma, usually studied alongside other Level 3 qualifications such as A Levels. The course is designed for students who are interested in crime, justice, social issues and the ways in which society responds to deviant behaviour. It is equivalent in size to one A Level and is recognised as an Applied General qualification.
Students study four units:
● Unit 1: Changing Awareness of Crime
● Unit 2: Criminological Theories
● Unit 3: Crime Scene to Courtroom
● Unit 4: Crime and Punishment.
In Changing Awareness of Crime, you will examine different types of crime, the way crime is represented in the media, and how campaigns can be used to raise awareness of unreported or under-represented crime.
In Criminological Theories, you will explore a range of explanations for why people commit crime, including biological, psychological and sociological theories.
In Crime Scene to Courtroom, you will study the criminal justice process, including how crimes are investigated, how evidence is collected and used, and how cases are prepared for trial.
In Crime and Punishment, you will examine the aims of punishment, different forms of social control, and the effectiveness of policies used to prevent crime and reduce reoffending.