About the course
This subject is included within the following A Level pathways as a RECOMMENDED CORE subject: Law and Legal; Social Sciences. It is included in the following pathways as a RECOMMENDED ADDITIONAL SUBJECT: Humanities; STEM and Healthcare. However, you can choose Criminology with any A Level/equivalent combination - there is plenty of choice and flexibility. You can also take Criminology alongside a Diploma in Uniform Protective Services as part of the Criminology Pathway.
Criminology includes an exciting range of topics, covering the Changing Awareness of Crime, Criminological Theories, Crime Scene to Courtroom and Crime and Punishment. The course encompasses elements of psychology, law and sociology.
In Year One you will study different types of crimes, explanations for why people commit crime and how we deal with criminals. You will also look into crime campaigns and create your own campaign for change, based on a crime issue. In Year Two, you will study what happens at the scene of a crime, the forensic and police investigation process, how cases are prepared for trial and what happens in the courtroom at a criminal trial.
In addition, you will also examine the reporting of crime in the media to see the impact this has on public perceptions of crime.
You will study the course for 4.5 -5 (first year is 4.5 hours and second year is 5) hours per week.
Entry requirements
Five GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, including grade 5/C or above in English Language and 4/C in Maths, English Literature and one Science. You do not need any previous knowledge of Criminology, but you should have a keen interest in understanding and examining crime and the criminal justice system.
Where next?
This course is an introduction to a range of degree courses and careers, and is ideal for students wishing to study criminology, law, politics, social policy, psychology, forensics or sociology at university. Criminology is particularly valued in a number of specific professions such as the police, HM Prison service, forensics, the National Offender Management Service and the National Probation Service as well as careers such as solicitor, barrister, social worker and youth worker.
Work experience and employability
This course does not contain a specific work experience component, but has other activities to help you develop employability skills. If you would like to undertake a work placement alongside your studies, our Employability Team can help, for example, with the court service or a barrister. Enrichment opportunities may include a criminology student conference, a ‘Criminal Investigation’ workshop for students, and a visit to a decommissioned prison.
What additional resources will I need?
We encourage you to by your own textbook. In addition, there will be a small cost for conferences and visits.
Fees information
This course is free to students aged 16-18.
Students aged 19+ will usually be charged a tuition fee, unless they meet certain eligibility criteria for fee remission. For those paying, an Advanced Learner Loan may be available. For further advice on fees, waivers and loans, please contact the Fees Co-Ordinator at Queens Drive.
Contact
If you would like any further information, please do not hesitate to contact us by emailing enrolment@newcollege.ac.uk